Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in treating patients with improper positioning of teeth when the mouth is closed (malocclusion), causing an improper bite.

Braces come in a variety of materials including nickel titanium, ceramic and clear plastic. However, the underlying biology of tooth realignment remains essentially the same. Braces are used to correct any misalignment between the teeth of the two dental arches when they approach each other as the jaws close, including underbite, overbite, crossbite, open bite, deep bite, and crooked teeth.

Invisalign is an alternative to braces that able to fix a wide variety of problems such as crowding, spacing, overbite, crossbite, and underbite.

Cosmetic or structural?

Dental braces can be used for either cosmetic or structural purposes. Braces are commonly used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances to help widen the palate, which assists in shaping the alignment of teeth and jaws.

Braces are attached directly to the crowns of the teeth, resulting in stresses along the tooth roots and within the rope-like periodontal ligaments that tether teeth to bone. The periodontal ligament, strained to accommodate the stress, alters its normal blood flow, allowing specialized cells to dissolve bone in the tooth socket and gradually move the tooth away from the pressure. As the tooth moves, boneforming cells fill in behind to permanently reposition the tooth in a straighter, more desirable position.

MTM Alignment

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in treating patients with improper positioning of teeth when the mouth is closed (malocclusion), causing an improper bite. If the adjustment needed is minor, full braces may not be needed. Instead, a retainer style mouthpiece is used to align smiles without the need for complete braces. Retainers are designed to treat common minor anterior misalignments in teeth. Its unique open pathway architecture allows teeth to move easily and naturally into position. There are no unnecessary attachments to the teeth, making treatment virtually invisible. Invisalign, an alternative to braces.