Many adults and teens who have never had braces would like to have straighter teeth. Whether you have serious alignment problems or your teeth are just a little bit crooked, you may be interested in knowing more about Braces in Ludlow MA. Before you make an appointment with your dentist, you should know that there are two main types of braces available today. The first is traditional braces with brackets and wires and the second is Invisalign.
Traditional Braces
These are still the most common way for teenagers to get straighter teeth. They are installed by an orthodontist and tightened on a regular schedule over a few years until teeth are a straight as possible. Some orthodontists offer colored brackets to their young patients to allow them to be creative or trendy while they wear their braces. Others may install the brackets behind the teeth so they are less visible to others.
Invisalign
An alternative to traditional Braces in Ludlow MA is Invisalign. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear plastic trays designed to straighten a patient’s teeth. They are made in a lab and are individualized for each orthodontic patient. Instead of getting braces tightened, a person with Invisalign gets a new tray. The aligners are removable so patients don’t have to worry about them getting in the way while they eat. Teens and adults with traditional Braces in Ludlow MA often complain about food getting stuck in the brackets.
Your dentist or orthodontist will carefully evaluate your needs to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign. If you are, a series of trays will be made for you in the lab. Your orthodontist will give you instructions about how to use and care for your trays. They should be worn most of the day and night with the exception of when you eat, brush your teeth and play sports. If your orthodontist feels that Braces in Ludlow MA will more effectively straighten your teeth, he or she will help you prepare for life with braces and teach you how to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth with the brackets and wires in your mouth.
