How Orthodontics Work
The goal of orthodontic treatment is the same for children, teenagers or adults – to straighten teeth so they function and look better.
By addressing concerns like crooked teeth, overcrowding, and bite issues, orthodontics help to enhance both oral health and overall well-being.
Our Cranbrook dentists achieve this with braces or clear aligners that put gentle pressure on your teeth to move them into the correct position over a period of months or years.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces, made of either metal or ceramic, have been used for decades to straighten teeth. In recent years, advances in orthodontic treatment have created braces that are lower-profile, more comfortable, and easier to care for.
Braces apply continuous pressure to the teeth over a period of time, slowly moving them into their new, corrected positions.
Over time, as your teeth move, the surrounding bone structure adapts to support their new alignment, resulting in a healthier, more functional and esthetically pleasing smile.
Clear Aligners
With clear aligners, your smile is gradually straightened using a series of individually customized, clear plastic trays. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners require minimal adjustments – simply switch to the next set of aligners every few weeks to keep your treatment progressing.
Clear aligners offer a convenient, discreet option for teeth straightening. They are removable, allowing you to maintain your normal routine, such as eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, without any disruptions.
Similar in appearance to custom whitening trays, they are easy to insert and remove. You can even take them out to eat, drink, brush and floss!
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces, but use tooth-colored ceramic brackets instead of gray or metallic silver brackets and wires. While ceramic braces are less visible than traditional braces, you may want to consider their durability, cost, and care when making your decision.
Damon Self-Ligating Braces
Damon Braces are a type of self-ligating braces that use a sliding mechanism to secure the archwire, unlike traditional braces that require elastic ties. This design allows the archwire to move freely within the brackets, reducing friction and discomfort. They also come in both metal and clear options.