When it comes to orthodontic treatment, it’s natural to want to be informed. That’s a great impulse! And that’s why at Orthodontics of South Miami, Dr. Ross and the team are here to answer any and all questions you may have. Braces are still our most popular option, so let’s take a few minutes to learn how they work.
Getting to Know Your Braces
Now that we’ve touched on the basics, it’s time to look into how they work to realign your teeth. In the upcoming sections, we’ll take a closer look at the essential components of braces and the process that guides your teeth to their ideal positions. Understanding these fundamentals will give you a clear picture of how braces can transform your smile at Orthodontics of South Miami.
Brackets and Wires
The heart of braces lies in their components. Brackets, those small but sturdy pieces, play a pivotal role. Dr. Ross uses durable brackets made from stainless steel, nickel, and other metals. These brackets feature hooks or doors through which a wire is threaded. The wire, often thinner than you’d expect, connects one bracket to another, serving as the guide for tooth movement.
Elastics:
If bite correction is on the agenda, elastics come into play. These tiny rubber bands connect upper and lower brackets, applying the necessary pressure to correct overbites or underbites. Dr. Ross might also utilize rubber bands for various other purposes, strategically exerting extra pressure where needed.
Orthodontic Bands
Stainless steel rings, known as orthodontic bands cemented to your teeth, serve as anchors for braces and other orthodontic appliances. While not necessary for everyone, they play a crucial role when needed.
Spacers
Spacers, often referred to as elastic “donuts” or rings, step in when space needs to be created between your teeth. This is typically done before applying bands, ensuring a smoother alignment process.
Elastic Ties, O-rings, and Colors
Dr. Ross uses these tiny rubber rings or bands to attach the archwire to the brackets. They come in a wide array of colors, allowing you to personalize your braces and showcase your unique style.
Behind the Scenes: The Treatment Process
Now, let’s look at what happens during your orthodontic treatment. In this section, we’ll provide insights into the careful planning and techniques used by Dr. Ross and the team at Orthodontics of South Miami to ensure your orthodontic experience is both effective and comfortable.
Precision Planning: Your Unique Treatment Plan
Before any brackets find their place, our team collects photos and X-rays and, in some cases, employs advanced 3D scans with our iTero Element scanner. This thorough analysis, taking around 10-15 minutes, provides a highly accurate 3D view of your mouth. Dr. Ross then uses this wealth of information to craft your personalized treatment plan, determining how each tooth needs to be moved for optimal results.
Brackets and Wire Placement
With the treatment plan in hand, Dr. Ross meticulously places the brackets. The placement varies based on your specific needs; for instance, brackets for tilted teeth differ from those for teeth needing rotation. Once the brackets are in place, the wire is inserted. The bends in the wire are where the magic happens, applying precise pressure to guide your teeth into their desired positions.
What to Expect During Your Braces Journey
As you start your orthodontic journey, it’s important to know what lies ahead. Now let’s talk about what you can expect from today’s treatment process. You’ll see how modern braces offer effectiveness and style as you work towards your dream smile.
Modern Comfort:
Forget the awkward and obvious braces you might be picturing in your head when you think of orthodontic treatment. Modern orthodontics has transformed metal braces into sleeker, less conspicuous, and more comfortable versions. These advancements mean less irritation for your mouth and a more pleasant experience overall.
Colorful Customization
One exciting feature of metal braces is the ability to customize them with colorful elastics. These elastics, wrapped around your brackets, come in a wide variety of colors, allowing you to showcase your personality whenever you like. From your favorite sports team’s colors to the hues of South Florida schools, the choices are endless.
Efficiency and Affordability
Metal braces excel at fixing complex tooth issues, often working faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth compared to alternative treatments. This efficiency can potentially shorten your overall treatment time. Moreover, metal braces are a cost-effective option, making them accessible to a wide range of patients in Kendall and beyond. Their strength, durability, and affordability keep them at the forefront of orthodontic treatments.
How Long Will Treatment Last?
While it’s natural to want to know how long treatment will take, it’s important to understand that every case is unique. Individual responses to treatment can vary, meaning your experience will differ from someone else’s. On average, patients at Orthodontics of South Miami spend around 18 to 22 months in metal braces. However, some may complete treatment in as little as six months, while complex cases might require more than three years.
Ready to Smile? Consultation is Free!
Now that you’ve learned all about how braces craft healthy and happy smiles, you’re ready for your 100% free consultation! With a conveniently located office on SW 67th Ave., we’re just minutes away from wherever you are in or around South Miami, Pinecrest, and Kendall. We can’t wait to see you!