There are options when it comes to determining which appliance to use to straighten your teeth! Dr. Gum will evaluate many factors such as jaw structure, occlusion, and tooth shapes. In children she will consider age and growth potential. She will use this information in choosing the best treatment for you. She will also consider factors important to you as a patient- such as visibility, maintenance, and treatment time.
BRACES
Traditional braces are a system of brackets (basically handles on the teeth) affixed to teeth, and wires that sit in the slots of the brackets. Elastic ties hold the wires in place, or the slot has a gate that closes over the slot. Brackets are made of surgical-grade stainless steel (traditional metal braces) or ceramic (clear braces). Wires are made of stainless steel, or other metal alloys designed to deliver a constant, gentle force to move teeth. Dr. Gum uses the Ormco® bracket systems. For cavity prone patients, we place Opal seal on the front surface of the teeth prior to application of the braces.
Opal Seal Enamel Protection System
CLEAR ALIGNERS
Clear aligner treatment is a great option for patients who do not wish to wear braces.
Dr. Gum has extensive knowledge and experience using clear aligners and achieves consistent quality results using clear aligner therapy for her teen and adult patients.. Dr. Gum exclusively uses Invisalign® system of clear aligners. Dr. Gum has been a certified Invisalign provider since the company’s inception.
We used a state-of-the-art 3-D Itero digital scanner, which eliminates the need for mouth impressions and streamlines the aligner fabrication process.
Braces or Aligners- What’s best for you?
RETAINERS
Retainers hold teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment is completed. Wearing retainers as instructed is essential to maintain the success of orthodontic treatment. Retainers can in some cases be used to make minor tooth position changes.
Removable retainers are either clear acrylic trays or a combination of wires and acrylic. Fixed retainers are bonded to the tongue side of the front teeth.
Dr. Gum will determine the best type of retainer for you based on the pre-treatment positions of your teeth and your preferences so that you maintain your new smile for a lifetime!