When it comes to teeth and braces, many people tend to have a lot of outdated ideas about how the orthodontic process works. For example, over the last couple of decades, there have been many leaps in orthodontic technology that allow patients to enjoy more freedom and comfort than ever before.

Today’s braces use safer, more durable materials such as stainless steel. Brackets are also available in a variety of sizes and shapes and can be customized to fit your mouth better. The brackets are held together by rubber bands, which have also improved with a more flexible material that provides more comfort to your teeth and gums.

At Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental, Dr. Payam Bostani and his team can fit you with modern, state-of-the-art orthodontics guaranteed to straighten your smile faster and more comfortably than the traditional braces you probably grew up seeing.

The Benefits of Braces for Adults

Braces not only improve your smile’s appearance but also improve your overall oral health and the function of your bite. By repositioning your teeth for optimum performance, you can also significantly reduce your chances of developing serious dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and even bone loss. Plus, conditions like bruxism and TMD/TMJ are also greatly influenced by the alignment of your smile.

Understanding Retainers

Another issue many have with braces is retainers, which in the past were very uncomfortable and unappealing. Retainers play an important role in post-orthodontic treatment, allowing you to maintain the new alignment of your smile.

You see, teeth can slowly shift over time. Wearing a nightly retainer can help maintain your smile in its new and improved position without additional orthodontic treatments. The three main types of retainers include:

• Fixed retainers
• Clear retainers
• Hawley retainers

Fixed Retainers

Fixed or “bonded” retainers consist of a thin stainless steel wire glued to the back or “lingual” side of your front teeth. They are also known as permanent retainers. The wire is hidden behind your teeth and not visible when you speak or smile. It’s usually worn behind the first four to six teeth as those teeth are more likely to shift back to their original positions following orthodontic treatment. Fixed retainers are designed to be worn indefinitely and are the most effective.

Clear Retainers

Clear retainers are made using a flexible, smooth, transparent plastic custom-fitted for your new smile. These retainers are typically more comfortable than fixed metal retainers, providing greater comfort. Since these retainers are also removable, you can take them off to floss and brush more easily. Clear retainers also offer shorter treatment periods but may not provide the same retention level as fixed retainers.

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers use a combination of an acrylic plate or colorful plastic and a metal wire to help teeth retain their new position following orthodontic treatment. These retainers are also removable and durable, lasting between three to 10 years. They should not be worn while brushing or eating and are considered just as effective as clear retainers.

Affordable Braces Near Me Burbank, California

Achieving the perfect smile of your dreams has never been easier or more affordable. To learn more about adult braces, call Dr. Bostani’s Advanced Dental team at (818) 918-5533 to schedule a visit with Dr Bostani.