Orthodontics is the art of using appliances to straighten and align teeth. Fuller Dental provides complete orthodontic services in Burlington, NC, for children and adults. We tailor orthodontic treatment to your unique oral health needs and cosmetic concerns.
Your dentist will suggest treatments that will support your dental health in the long term. We also provide additional dental services for common dental health problems.
The Importance of Straight Teeth
Having straight teeth isn’t just about achieving a pretty smile. It is important for your oral health. With crooked teeth, you risk developing dental problems and bite disorders.
These issues can affect your health and your overall lifestyle. Straight teeth have a lower chance of getting dental cavities, gum disease, and TMJ disorders.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Several types of orthodontic braces are available to patients. These include traditional metal braces, ceramic “tooth-colored” braces, and clear plastic aligners.
Clear Braces
Clear braces have brackets made of sapphire crystal, so they’re almost invisible except for the thin wire. Clear braces are closest to invisible braces next to the SureSmile system (below).
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most economical and traditionally used type of orthodontic treatment. They are also ideal for those with more extensive realignment needs. Braces move teeth into proper positioning.
With this method, your dentist bonds brackets to the teeth and then threads arch wires through the brackets. The arch wires act as a track, guiding each tooth to its proper position.
Orthodontic Retainers
Retainers are appliances made from plastic and stainless steel to custom-fit your mouth. They hold your teeth in place after you do with braces. The retainer holds your teeth in place so your surrounding gums and bones can adjust around them.
This allows you to maintain your new, straight smile. You may need to wear a retainer until your early 20s, when your jaw and mouth finish growing.
Sure Smile
Sure Smile® is a modern orthodontic treatment that provides a comfortable and discreet alternative to traditional braces. Sure Smile® uses advanced technology to straighten your teeth faster and more comfortably than traditional braces. Clear aligners are popular for mild to moderate orthodontic issues due to their comfort and effectiveness.
Orthodontics FAQs
We offer various types of orthodontic treatment methods in our office. Learn more about orthodontics and its different uses.
Can I ask my doctor to end my orthodontic treatment early?
No, you can’t finish treatment early—even if your teeth seem straight already. Your teeth and jawbone need time to fully set and heal in their new positions. Stopping too soon can cause your teeth to shift back. You might need braces again to fix them.
Can I request SureSmile over traditional braces?
While we’ll consider your wants, it comes down to the treatment option most effective for your unique needs. With severe orthodontic concerns, metal braces and more intensive treatment options may be necessary. Put your trust in your doctor. We’ll do everything we can to ensure you get the best result.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
It all depends on the severity of your condition and what treatment options you require. For mild orthodontic concerns, clear aligner treatment can take as little as six months. More serious problems can require anywhere from 12 to 24 months.
You may also need a retainer to preserve the results after treatment. Although your main treatment will be over, you must wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place.
Do I still need dental checkups every six months along with my orthodontic visits?
These appointments are even more important, particularly if you have metal braces. Braces make cleaning tricky, so regular dental cleanings help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Without it, you may end up with two-tone teeth when your braces come off or have problems with plaque and tartar buildup.
Can you be too old for orthodontic treatment?
No, there’s no such thing. However, we examine whether your bones and gums are healthy enough for treatment.
They have to be able to support your teeth and the orthodontic fixtures in your mouth. It may take a bit longer, too. It’s easiest to shift and move teeth when the mouth is still developing.
Do I need orthodontic treatment?
When patients request orthodontic treatment, they usually have visible crooked teeth that cause problems. However, your regular dental visits are also important for diagnosing orthodontic concerns.
They may notice things about your bite and teeth that you don’t know. Bite problems can cause further issues with your oral health, like TMJ disorders. You want to ensure you get treatment right away. You want to ensure you get treatment right away.