All About Braces
O·M·I Orthodontics offers braces to a variety of ages. It is entirely normal for youth, teenagers, and adults to have braces to straighten their teeth. Whether you are dealing with significant misalignment issues or small ones, we are here to help you improve your smile and increase your confidence. If you are interested in braces, please come into our office for a complimentary consultation today! We have three convenient locations in different areas of Indiana and will gladly help you reach your smile’s potential.
Orthodontics for Children
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that it’s best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if they require orthodontic treatment, and it is the best time for us to treat that patient. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time we can evaluate other problems like crossbites, crowding, over/underbites. When treatment begins early, the orthodontist can direct the growth of the jaw while guiding incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment and improve overall outcomes.
Orthodontics for Adults
Orthodontics for adults is extremely common. Everyone deserves a perfect smile, no matter your age. In fact, one of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Working with adults can be more challenging, as their mouth and jaw have stopped growing and developing. However, this should not stop you from getting braces. Dr. Johnson has the highest education and training available. He knows how to treat each individual and help them create the desired individualized smile.
Different Types of Braces
Here at O·M·I, we offer four treatment options to align teeth: traditional braces, ceramic braces, clear aligners, and lingual braces. Each type has a specific purpose and depending on your situation, we’ll help determine what type of treatment will work best for you. We have a separate page that explains each type of treatment in greater detail and lists the benefits of each. We invite you to read through that page, especially if you are interested in braces. Give us a call with any remaining questions that you may have!
Types of Braces Appliances
While braces typically only include brackets and wires that work together to create a straighter smile, sometimes there are situations where different braces appliances are needed to help with the process. Below we provide information on some of the most common devices to straighten teeth and correct other oral issues.
Herbst Appliance
We use this appliance primarily with growing children. It works to move the lower jaw forward and upper molars backward, correcting an overbite.
Palatal Expander
An expander expands (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars. When you achieve the desired expansion, you will wear the appliance for several months to solidify the expansion and to prevent regression.
Retainers
Retainers prevent relapse of your teeth after your treatment. They will keep your teeth in a straight position. Most retainers eventually only need to be worn at night. Look up our page about retainers to learn more about how they can benefit you.
Elastics
We can use elastic bands for several reasons. They work to move your jaw and teeth into a new position, keeping things tight and secure. There are different sizes of bands and ways we can place them. You need to wear them exactly as instructed.
Separators
Separators move your teeth to make space. We often use separators when overcrowding is an issue. The separators will move your teeth slightly apart, and then we can more easily place appliances to help align your teeth.
All About Braces in Fort Wayne, Fishers, and Auburn
We look forward to seeing you at one of our three Indiana orthodontic offices in Fishers, Fort Wayne, and Auburn. If you want a better smile and more confidence, contact us at O·M·I Orthodontics today! We are so happy to help you in any way that we can. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out! We are more than willing to accommodate any specific needs that you may have.