Traditional Braces
ONE OF THE MOST COMMON TREATMENTS
Traditional metal braces have been in use since as early as 400 – 300 BC! They remain in use as the most common type of orthodontic treatment. Although most people that have braces are teenagers, they are also in use for children as young as seven, and adults, as well.
How Braces Straighten Teeth
Braces work by creating tension to shift teeth into alignment. To create the necessary tension the orthodontist affixes brackets to teeth. An archwire is connected between the brackets and tightened. Archwires are held in place by tiny rubber bands, called elastics.
Adjustments, approximately every 6 to 8 weeks, continue to shift the tension while moving your teeth into the correct positions.
Braces can be instrumental in correcting a long list of malocclusions:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Gap teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Open bite
- Crowded teeth
Misalignments can have many causes. Some are genetic, some may be the result of poor oral habits, and others by injury. Whatever the reason for a misaligned smile, Koch Orthodontics can correct it.
Whether you opt for traditional metal braces, clear braces, or even Invisalign, you can rest assured knowing that Dr. Keith Koch will provide excellent orthodontic care.
Benefits of a Straight and Healthy Smile
While many people think that getting braces is just to have a pretty smile, there is more to it than that. Braces work to correct alignment problems and contribute to better overall health. Having a straight smile makes oral hygiene easier and more effective, which also helps with:
- Fighting tooth decay
- Avoiding gum disease
- Tooth loss
- Speech difficulties
- Abnormal wear due to incorrect biting
- Jaw problems such as TMJ
A straight smile promotes better chewing, which aids in digestion and provides more nourishment from the foods you eat.
Treatment Duration Varies
The length of time you will need to wear braces may vary greatly from one patient to the next. Because each treatment plan is unique, even two siblings may have greatly different treatment periods. The duration is determined by the degree of malocclusion.
Minor alignment issues may only take 6 to 8 months to correct. More serious issues may take as long as 36 months. The average treatment period ranges from 12 to 24 months, though.
Oral Hygiene and Dietary Changes
Oral hygiene does become more difficult while wearing braces, but don’t worry. The staff at Koch Orthodontics will help you make adjustments in your regular oral care routine to make it easier. Brushing and flossing are very important with braces because food particles can cause tooth decay.
We will ask you to avoid certain types of foods while wearing your braces. Although there is a list, it isn’t as bad as you might think. The key point is to avoid foods that may cause damage to the wires or brackets. That means hard or chewy foods or crunchy foods. When in doubt — do without.
Dr. Keith Koch is an Expert With Traditional Braces
Dr, Koch has been working with orthodontic patients in the Geneseo area for more than 25 years. His philosophy is to provide high-quality service at an affordable price. The entire staff is compassionate and the office atmosphere is relaxing and welcoming.
Contact Koch Orthodontics to find out how traditional metal braces can fit into your busy life.
Colors
Koch Orthodontics provides colored elastic ties, rubber bands and retainers for patients to show off their transformed smiles with style!
When you hear people say colored braces, it is not the metal bracket that is colored. What they are referring to are the elastic ties or rings that go around each bracket. The elastic ties give the patient a lot of opportunities to have some fun, and change the colors at each appointment.
Typical color shades include red, blue, green, yellow, purple, pink and orange. For those who do not want to show colors, silver rings can be placed to match the color of the metal brackets. Check out this blog post for more information about what colors YOU may want to pick for your braces, depending on your personality.
Colored elastic ties can show your support for your favorite sports team, school, or the holiday of that season.
Color My Braces
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