Genetics, oral trauma, and multiple factors can lead to permanent teeth rupturing in all the wrong places, causing misalignments, overbites, underbites, and gaps. While traditional braces offer an efficient route to straighter teeth, bands and ties make it challenging to carry out dental hygiene routines and are aesthetically uncomfortable. At Excel Dentistry, Dr. Mayra Modesto-Garrido works with teenagers and adults throughout Glen Rock, NJ, providing innovative orthodontic care. Self-ligating braces are a revolutionary system that can straighten teeth with fewer orthodontic visits, enhanced dental hygiene, and a more natural-looking smile.
WHAT ARE SELF-LIGATING BRACES?
Self-ligating braces are a new orthodontic technology that utilizes brackets with a specialized slide system, which replaces traditional elastics or metal ties. The bracket has a movable door that does not require regular “tightening,” which reduces the number of office visits and is more discreet so as to not attract plaque and bacteria buildup. At Excel Dentistry, Dr. Modesto-Garrido assesses the unique needs of each patient during an initial consultation to determine if self-ligating braces are the appropriate treatment path for straighter teeth.
BENEFITS OF SELF-LIGATING BRACES
Compared to traditional braces, self-ligating braces provide orthodontic patients with numerous benefits, including:
- Fewer orthodontic office visits
- No need for elastic or metal bands that catch food, tartar, and bacteria
- Improved bite
- Fewer gaps
- Straighter teeth in a shorter time frame
- Minimal brackets for a more attractive smile
Patients have the option to be fitted for clear brackets, which are easier to conceal for a more natural look. Consult with Dr. Modesto-Garrido to discuss your treatment options.
HOW TO BE FITTED FOR SELF-LIGATING BRACES
Similarly to traditional braces, your teeth, gums, and jawbone will need to be examined, and x-rays will be taken to determine your specific fit and treatment course. Patients come to a scheduled appointment at Excel Dentistry, where they will be fitted for their self-ligating braces within the comforts of one of our private treatment rooms. Each appliance is bonded to the teeth with a specialized adhesive to remain fixed in place for the duration of the treatment. The archwire is laced through the appliances and can be easily adjusted by removing the bracket system rather than manually tightening the wires. Once your braces are properly fitted, you may return home and resume normal daily activities.
WHAT IS THE WEAR TIME LIKE FOR SELF-LIGATING BRACES?
Depending on the initial nature of the patient’s teeth, the wear time for self-ligating braces may last anywhere from 12 – 24 months. Longer treatment schedules are recommended for complicated bite abnormalities. Consult with Dr. Modesto-Garrido about what to expect for your unique orthodontic experience.
DENTAL HYGIENE WITH SELF-LIGATING BRACES
While self-ligating braces significantly reduce pockets and crevices created by elastics or metal bands, it’s essential to maintain a dedicated dental hygiene routine at home to help prevent tooth decay and optimize your results once the braces are removed. Here are a few tips to consider:
- Avoid eating extremely sticky, hard, or chewy foods that could break or damage the hardware
- Brush and floss twice daily according to Dr. Modesto-Garrido’s recommendations
- Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated
- Minimize sugar intake
- Attend scheduled orthodontic checkups and routine dental cleanings
LEARN MORE ABOUT IMPROVING YOUR BITE WITH SELF-LIGATING BRACES
Teenagers and adults now have a route to straighter teeth and enhanced oral health without the typical hassles presented by traditional braces. If you reside in or near Glen Rock, NJ, and would like to learn more about improving your bite with self-ligating braces, contact us at Excel Dentistry and schedule a consultation with Dr. Mayra Modesto-Garrido today.