If you are asking yourself, "What is orthodontics?," this guide can help. Here is everything to know about how this process can help align your teeth.

Types of Orthodontics

Orthodontists specialize in the art of creating a perfect smile for their patients. Almost 5 million children and adults get braces each year in the United States.

Factors like bone structure have a significant impact on a person's teeth. A patient may suffer from an overcrowded mouth and need spacers to allow their teeth to align.

Orthodontists often use techniques with non-permanent appliances and retainers. These devices help prepare a patient's mouth for future treatments and teeth realignment.



Other common issues orthodontists treat are overbites and underbites. An orthodontist assesses a patient's palate and comes up with a plan based on the patient's needs.

Traditional Braces

Since braces came on the scene in the 1800s, they continue to improve in technology. There is a reason the traditional wire braces are still used today. They are a tried-and-true method for treating teeth misalignment.

Many factors go into how long a patient has to wear braces. On average, most will wear braces for 24 months.

Traditional braces are a multi-step procedure. The entire process lasts a little less than 2 hours.

The treatment begins with the orthodontist drying the teeth for proper glue adhesion. Next, they apply a cement-like glue to each tooth. Once the cement is ready, the doctor attaches metal brackets. Finally, they apply a metal wire to the brackets.

Once the braces are applied, a patient may have the choice to choose fun or funky-colored elastic bands. The bands help keep the wire attached to the brackets. They also assist in aligning the teeth.



Some patients need rubber bands during their orthodontist treatment. The bands help the jaw realign and get the desired results the orthodontist is looking for.

Keep Your New Smile Looking Great

A patient must take care of their new smile by following their orthodontist's orders. Unfortunately, some patients neglect their new smile and have to have repeat procedures.

It is normal, over time, for teeth to shift and change. Age, bone density, and oral care play a huge part in this. When a patient does their part to take care of their new profile, it helps with the longevity of the treatment.



Wearing a retainer and getting regular checkups are keys to success. Your new smile is an investment - take care of it!

Invisalign

Invisalign treatment first came onto the orthodontist scene in 1997. Since then, over 13 million patients have new smiles due to this treatment. Because of the ease of use and clear trays, many patients love the flexibility and look of Invisalign.

Invisalign is one of the top choices for orthodontic treatments for adults. Some adults had braces in the past and find themselves needing alignment help. Or, they may be getting orthodontist treatment for the first time in their lives.

Invisalign is a popular choice for patients who don't want the look of traditional braces. Depending on the patient's needs, the treatment can take up to 12 months. Some patients may see results in as little as 6 months.



Invisalign treatment creates a better smile in less time with no wires! Talk to your orthodontist about if Invisalign is a good choice for your needs.

How Does Invisalign Work?

After your initial consultation, your orthodontist will take molds of the patient's teeth. The orthodontist then creates clear trays shaped to that patient's palate. The patient wears the trays for 20-22 hours a day. The patient should only remove the trays to eat and brush their teeth.

Like traditional braces, a patient gets adjustments every couple of weeks. Rather than a wire and bracket adjustment, a patient receives a new set of clear Invisalign trays.

Over the course of a tray's lifetime, it begins to shift the teeth into place. The adjustments are small and may leave one's mouth feeling a little sore. The discomfort is no more than a traditional metal braces treatment. 



During an Invisalign treatment, patients will receive between 20 and 50 trays. The amount of trays depends on how much alignment and correction a patient needs.

Other Types of Dentist Care

Once you achieve your improved palate, you may start thinking of other ways to take care of your teeth.

An orthodontist helps you achieve the new smile you desire. Additional dentist services enhance your refreshed look!

A professional whitening service is a great way to celebrate the end of treatments. Get the benefits of teeth whitening services in your dentist's office or at home.

If you don't need alignment treatments, there are other ways to improve the look of your smile.



Veneers are a cosmetic procedure done in your doctor's office. In a few visits, you can achieve a new and improved smile.

Best Dentist in Columbia, IL

If you are searching for an orthodontist in the Columbia, IL area, come to see us at Advanced Smiles. Our office specializes in dental care and orthodontics.

We offer the latest technology in cosmetic dentistry. We work with patients to create their unique smiles. We offer veneers, teeth whitening, and facial cosmetic procedures.

Our office provides general dentistry like routine cleanings, crowns, implants, and extractions.

Total wellness should be from the inside out. That's why our office also provides sleep apnea treatments.

Dr. Martin J. Cisneros and the entire team at Advanced Smiles are passionate about helping their patients. They dedicate their time to making sure each patient receives the best dental care. They love working with their patients to help them achieve the smiles of their dreams.

If you want to enhance your pearly whites, schedule an appointment with us to talk about Invisalign treatment today!