About Orthodontics
Orthodontics Sioux Falls, SD
Properly aligned jaws and teeth are the foundations of a healthy mouth, good oral health, and a beautiful smile. Orthodontic treatment can also help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, corrective straightening, and other conditions that negatively impact oral health over time.
Invisalign
Invisalign is an alternate treatment to traditional orthodontic braces. It uses a series of custom-fitted clear plastic aligner trays that gradually shift teeth over time. This treatment has gained popularity through the years thanks to the flexibility and in some cases a shorter treatment time.
This is a great option for anyone who needs teeth alignment corrections and doesn't have severe bite or jaw issues. With the aligners, the teeth are moved discreetly while appearing not to have braces at all. The patient can also remove the aligners to eat, brush, and floss making it easier to maintain your normal hygiene routine. If a patient has more intense treatment requirements, metal braces may be recommended.
Invisalign Teen
Invisalign Teen offers the same high quality and effectiveness you'd expect from Invisalign, but with an added "compliance indicator" on the aligner trays. This indicator is a small blue dot toward the back of each aligner tray. As the teen wears the aligners, the blue dot slowly fades over time. This is helpful for the orthodontist and parents to see if the aligners are being worn as often as they should in order for treatment to be most effective for the teen.
Conventional Orthodontics
Conventional orthodontics is a type of treatment that deals with teeth and jaw irregularities. When you see an orthodontist, they evaluate your mouth and will determine what type of treatment is best for each patient.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are another option for individuals who need to straighten their teeth but want an alternative to metal braces. These are less visible than metal braces but will achieve the same desired goals.
Metal Braces
One of the most common orthodontic treatments provided by an orthodontist is metal braces. With this treatment, brackets are connected to the teeth and attached to each other with a wire. Orthodontic braces put pressure on your teeth to move them into the proper position over time. As part of the treatment plan, you will continue to visit the orthodontist's office while wearing braces to have them adjusted and tightened. Orthodontic elastics, small rubber bands that hook to the metal brackets, are also used in some patients. The amount of time you must wear these orthodontic braces varies based on your needs and condition.
Orthodontic Overview
What is orthodontics?
If your goal is to improve the feel and look of your smile, any age is a good age to go to the orthodontist. According to information from the American Association of Orthodontists, children should first visit an orthodontist at age 7. While this is true, orthodontic treatment isn't just for children and teenagers. One out of every five orthodontic patients is over 21.
What’s the best age to visit the orthodontist?
One of the most common orthodontic treatments provided by an orthodontist is metal braces. With this treatment, brackets are connected to the teeth and attached to each other with a wire. Orthodontic braces put pressure on your teeth to move them into the proper position over time. As part of the treatment plan, you will continue to visit the orthodontist's office while wearing braces to have them adjusted and tightened. Orthodontic elastics, small rubber bands that hook to the metal brackets, are also used in some patients. The amount of time you must wear these orthodontic braces varies based on your needs and condition.
What does a retainer do?
Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, your retainer holds your teeth in the final position once your braces are removed. You'll find several types of retainers; however, they're not designed to move the teeth, they are used to maintain your orthodontic treatment and keep your teeth in place. You may be required to wear your retainer all the time right after your braces are removed and, at some point, you will be able to switch to wearing them only at night.
How to care for your teeth while wearing braces?
It can be challenging to care for your teeth with braces, but a few tips can help, including:
- Brush your teeth two to three times per day. Floss your teeth at least once per day
- Use toothpaste containing fluoride, and ask your orthodontist if you need to use a fluoride rinse.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings, at least every 6 months.
- Avoid chewy and sticky foods.
How do I take care of my retainer?
To care for your retainer, use the following tips:
- Wear the retainer as directed.
- Take your retainer out when eating.
- Keep the retainer clean.
- Keep the retainer away from pets.
- If you lose your retainer, please contact us for a replacement.
Do braces hurt?
Some people experience some discomfort when they first get braces. This is because the mouth must get used to them. The metal can irritate your cheeks, gums, and other soft tissues in the mouth. However, this discomfort usually subsides after a week or so. You can take over-the-counter painkillers to help alleviate some of the discomforts or use a dental wax to help with any mouth irritation.
Call us today or complete our online form to schedule your FREE orthodontic consultation at Wermerson Orthodontics. We look forward to seeing you smile!
If you are considering orthodontic treatment call Wermerson Orthodontics today at (605) 274-0555 to schedule a FREE consultation! Our Sioux Falls orthodontist can discuss treatment options with you and the results you can expect. You can also book book a visit online here
Serving patients in Sioux Falls, Brandon, Harrisburg, Hartford, Tea, and many other local communities!
