Traditional Braces in North Carolina

Providing quality orthodontic treatment in Durham, Raleigh, and Goldsboro.

Dealing with crooked, overcrowded, or misaligned teeth can be a source of frustration and self-consciousness at any age. If you’re struggling with these dental issues, know that you are not alone and that there is a solution. At Carolina Dental Arts, one of the ways that we can transform your smile is with traditional braces. This tried-and-true orthodontic treatment improves your oral health and enhances your smile’s appearance.

Don’t let crooked teeth hold you back. Our experienced team is eager to help you achieve the beautiful, straight smile you’ve always wanted.

Understanding Traditional Braces

Did you know that approximately 4 million Americans wear braces, and 1 in 3 are adults? It’s easy to see why traditional braces are so common—they work.

The traditional system consists of small metal brackets that we affix to the front of each tooth. These brackets are connected by a thin, springy metal wire that runs through them. This archwire gently guides the teeth into their correct positions through controlled tension and pressure. We also use small elastic bands to secure the wire to the brackets. These come in multiple colors, allowing you to personalize your look.

As the teeth gradually move, the bone around the teeth changes or remodels. On the side where the tooth is being pushed, the pressure causes the bone to break down and be absorbed by the body. This process creates space for the tooth to move into. On the opposite side, where there is tension as the new tooth moves, new bone cells start to move. This helps to stabilize the tooth in its new position.

Essentially, the bone around the tooth is constantly reshaping itself to accommodate the tooth’s new position. The breakdown of bone on one side and the formation of new bone on the other side enable the tooth to shift and settle into the correct alignment over time. This process is gradual and carefully controlled through regular adjustments to the braces, ensuring the teeth move safely and effectively into their new positions.

The Benefits of Traditional Braces

Traditional braces have many benefits. They not only create a straight, beautiful smile but also lead to long-term oral health benefits. By properly aligning the teeth, traditional braces can improve overall oral health, reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay, and enhance bite function.

Additional benefits include:

Comprehensive treatment: Traditional braces are highly effective for addressing many dental issues, including complex misalignments and severe crowding. They provide precise control over the movement of each tooth.
Versatility: Suitable for patients of all ages, traditional braces can correct various orthodontic problems, making them a versatile option for children, teens, and adults.
Durability: Traditional braces are made from strong metal alloys. They can withstand the forces involved in realigning teeth, ensuring consistency throughout treatment.
Personalization: Patients can personalize their braces with different colored elastic bands, allowing for a customized look.
Effectiveness: Traditional braces deliver reliable and predictable results, often achieving significant improvements that might be challenging with other orthodontic methods.
Professional monitoring: Regular orthodontic visits ensure that treatment progresses as intended. At your checkups, we can address any issues promptly, providing ongoing professional guidance and adjustments for optimal results.
Cost-effectiveness: Compared to some newer orthodontic treatments, traditional braces are often more affordable, making them accessible to more patients.

The Process for Traditional Braces

Traditional Braces in North Carolina | Carolina Dental Arts Patients undergoing treatment with traditional braces can expect a structured process. We begin with an initial consultation, during which we examine your teeth, take X-rays, and discuss a proposed treatment plan. When we apply your braces, we attach the metal brackets to your teeth and thread the archwire through them, securing the wire with elastic bands.

Throughout treatment, you will visit us every 4-6 weeks for an adjustment. During these visits, we will adjust the tension in the archwire, change the elastic bands, and monitor your progress to ensure the teeth are moving correctly.

Many patients wonder how long their treatment will take. The total treatment duration depends on several factors, including the complexity of the dental issues. However, most patients wear braces for 18 to 24 months, though some cases may require shorter or longer periods.

Initially, patients may experience some discomfort or soreness when we first apply or adjust the braces, but this should subside in a couple of days. Adhering to a strong oral hygiene routine and avoiding certain foods that can damage the braces are crucial for a successful outcome. By following this process and attending regular adjustment appointments, well-aligned teeth, and a healthier, more attractive smile are within reach!

Braces vs. Invisalign

At Carolina Dental Arts, we offer both traditional braces and Invisalign®. While braces use a bracket and wire system, Invisalign uses a series of plastic transparent aligners. These aligners are custom-made to fit over the teeth and gradually move them into alignment.

Invisalign is nearly invisible, making it an appealing option for those concerned about aesthetics. They are also removable, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and care for your teeth. However, Invisalign may not be best for severe orthodontic issues and requires strict patient compliance. Patients must wear their aligners for 20-22 hours per day and switch to the next set of aligners at the appropriate time, as indicated by their treatment plan.

The choice between traditional braces and Invisalign depends on your individual needs, preferences, and specific orthodontic issues. At your consultation, we’ll discuss which method is best for you.

Achieve a Perfect Smile With Traditional Braces

Traditional braces effectively correct misaligned teeth and improve overall oral health, giving you a straight, beautiful smile. This treatment is suitable for children, teens, and adults alike, offering reliable outcomes for various orthodontic issues. If you need orthodontic treatment, traditional braces could be the right choice for you. We invite you to book a free consultation at Carolina Dental Arts to discuss your options and start your journey toward a more confident smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to get braces?

Braces are suitable for many ages. The ideal age for getting braces is typically between 10 and 14. At this stage, a child’s mouth and jaw are still growing, making it easier to adjust the position of the teeth. However, we’ll start with an orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Early assessments allow us to identify potential issues and plan the best time for treatment.

While adolescence is often optimal, adults can certainly benefit from braces! With advancements in orthodontic technology, effective treatments are available for patients of any age, ensuring everyone can achieve a healthy, well-aligned smile.

What foods should you avoid with braces?

When you have braces, it’s important to avoid certain foods that can damage the brackets and wires. Hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and candies can break or dislodge the braces. Sticky foods such as gum, caramel, and chewy candies can get stuck in the braces and are difficult to clean.

Crunchy foods like raw carrots and apples should be cut into smaller pieces to prevent damage. Additionally, you should limit sugary foods and drinks as they can increase the risk of tooth decay around the brackets. Steering clear of these foods can help keep your braces in good condition and ensure your treatment progresses smoothly.

How do I properly clean my braces?

Cleaning your braces is essential for your oral health. Here’s what we recommend:

Brushing: Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wires thoroughly. It’s also important to brush along the gum line and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.

Flossing: You should floss daily using a floss threader or an orthodontic flosser to navigate around the braces. Interdental brushes can help clean between the brackets and wires.

Rinsing: Finally, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can reduce plaque buildup and help keep your mouth fresh.