WHAT ARE DENTAL BRACES?

Braces are made-to measure teeth-straightening devices used to correct a misaligned bite or straighten uneven teeth.

At Brace5 we use two different types of braces: clear removable aligners and traditional metal wired braces.

Worn in the mouth for a duration of at least several months, they exert continual gentle pressure on the teeth, which helps to reposition them. Pressure is increased at regular intervals by the dental professional who adjusts the tightness of the braces or transitions the aligners to increasingly closer fitting molds. In this way, teeth that are not pointing straight upwards of their own accord can be carefully realigned until they do so.

The beauty of braces is that they can be used not only with juvenile teeth and jaws that are still growing and developing, but also with adults who desire a straighter smile.

WHO CAN USE BRACES?

Contrary to common misconception, braces are not used exclusively for straightening the teeth of teens. In fact, braces may be required for a number of reasons at all stages of life, from remedying orthodontic problems to improving aesthetics.

More specifically, braces may be used in instances of uneven or crowded teeth; an overbite, underbite or crossbite; a misaligned jaw; and overly large gaps between the teeth.

While teeth straightening is not usually practiced in younger children, there are instances in which early intervention is necessary. The evolution of teeth straightening technology in recent years – namely the arrival of Invisalign clear aligners – has meant that many adults who previously avoided straightening their teeth for social reasons, are now achieving the smiles they have long wanted.

DR JOHN MAMUTIL
AUSTRALIA’S LEADING SPECIALIST ORTHODONTIST

Book a consultation with Dr. Mamutil today, and see how he can help you get that beautiful smile you deserve!

TRADITIONAL WIRED BRACES VS CLEAR ALIGNERS

At Brace5 we use two main types of braces: Invisalign clear removable aligners, and traditional metal wired braces.

The Invisalign aligners are more popular with adults due to being made of a clear material that renders them almost invisible. This makes them far more appealing to those who would otherwise feel more self-conscious about wearing wire braces on their teeth.

With Invisalign, the teeth are straightened by gradually increasing the tension exerted by the clear aligners. This is done by progressing the individual through a series of aligners at intervals of one to two weeks, with each new aligner exerting slightly different pressure onto the teeth until they have reached the desired alignment.

Invisalign is a great option for many people, though there are limitations. With complex cases in which the individual requires teeth extraction, for example, clear aligners are not a suitable option. In such cases, traditional wire aligners would be used.

With traditional metal wire braces, metal brackets are cemented onto the patient’s teeth, with small elastics holding the wire in position. The pressure exerted by the wires is increased every four to six weeks, causing them to gradually move the teeth into alignment.

While the visible metal brackets may make traditional wire braces less aesthetically pleasing to wear than Invisalign clear aligners, the total treatment time and process is quicker.

Ready for the smile you deserve?

Dr Mamutil and the team at Brace5 are ready to get you smiling with confidence.