Health & Exercise

HOW DO BRACES WORK? – Ask The Expert

Orthodontic braces correct your teeth and improve your smile, step by step. Braces consist of brackets and wires. These appliances work by gently applying pressure to your teeth, and that pressure is what causes your teeth to move in the correct position.

In some cases elastics, or rubber bands, are required to apply additional movement to your teeth. Each patient has their own customized rubber bands. These rubber bands stretch over tiny loops that are attached to each bracket. When you wear your rubber bands as instructed, your teeth are guided into their proper position in no time.

HOW DO THEY STICK BRACES ON MY TEETH?
Patients are often concerned that we will drill into the tooth to attach the braces. Nothing could be further from the truth! We simply glue the braces to the teeth.

Also, when the braces come off, we have special tools that make removing braces easy.

IF MY TEETH HAVE BEEN CROOKED FOR YEARS, WHY DO I NEED ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT NOW?
There’s no time like the present, and healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Orthodontic treatment can create or restore good function, and teeth that work better usually look better, too. A healthy, beautiful smile can improve self-esteem, no matter your age.

ARE YOU TOO OLD FOR BRACES?
Absolutely NOT! The first patient Dr. Bussick ever saw was 73 years old! You are never too old to improve your smile!
Today, approximately 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. Crooked teeth, crowded smiles and poorly aligned bites cause more than cosmetic problems. Crowded or overlapping teeth can be difficult to clean, making tooth decay and gum disease more likely. Teeth that don’t come together properly can cause chewing and swallowing problems. Poor tooth alignment can also make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds and can put excessive stress on the facial muscles, causing pain.

Metal braces are still the gold standard when it comes to efficacy but there are several other options to choose from. Tooth-colored ceramic or clear plastic brackets are an option because they are less noticeable. Another choice is Invisalign.

Many adults have treatment right along with their children because it is convenient to come to appointments together, the financing is such that it is affordable and it is a great bonding experience.

CAN YOU STRAIGHTEN YOUR TEETH WITHOUT BRACES?
This is where a product called Invisalign comes in, a comfortable and clear aligner, that gently and gradually begins to move your teeth into their proper positions-without brackets and wires. With Invisalign a small resin attachment is placed on some of your teeth that coincide with clear trays that you wear. These attachments may be removed or added at different levels of a patient’s treatment. The trays are changed about every two weeks.

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between them, it’s time to see an orthodontist. You will be surprised at how efficient today’s techniques can straighten that smile! And, if you are apprehensive about traditional braces, clear brackets or Invisalign may be your preferred treatment option.

This article is sponsored by Bussick Orthodontics.

Orthodontics and the process of getting braces have changed tremendously over the last few years. Change is good and healthy for you!

To make a new patient appointment to see Dr. Bussick please call 260-436-2255. New patients may receive $300 off braces, Invisalign or Invisalign Teen with a free consultation if you mention that you found us from reading The Waynedale News.

You can visit Bussick Orthodontics website at www.bussickortho.com and also check out our facebook page.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact the conveniently located office at 7207 Engle Road, Fort Wayne, IN.

It will change your child’s (or your) life!

The Waynedale News Staff

Dr. Timothy J. Bussick, D.D.S., M.S.

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