Is a straighter smile on your list for 2022? If so, we’ve got great news for you—there’s never been a better time to explore orthodontics! We’re proud to offer patients a range of treatment options here at Periago Orthodontics, from traditional braces to Invisalign clear aligners. Braces in particular have undergone an impressive makeover in recent years, with a sleeker design that’s far more comfortable than previous versions. They’re also more efficient and affordable than ever before! Let’s take a look at how this top treatment works, the different types of braces available, and how they can help you achieve a confident smile. Keep reading to learn more!
How do braces work?
Traditional braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance, which means the brackets are affixed directly to the surface of the teeth. The brackets are usually made of a metal or ceramic material and have a wire running through them. We make gradual adjustments to this wire to move the teeth where we want them to go. We also use tiny rubber bands, or elastics, to create a controlled amount of pressure that will eventually result in a straighter smile.
Braces help to reshape the jawline by dissolving bone that is then replaced with new bone growth. This growth provides long-term support for the teeth in their post-treatment places, along with regular retainer use. Traditional braces are a cost-effective solution for correcting many common orthodontic issues, including
- difficulties with chewing or biting
- misaligned teeth or jaws
- excessive wear and tear of the teeth
- teeth that have excessive spacing
- overlapping or crowded teeth
When you schedule your complimentary consultation with our New Albany, Corydon, or Floyds Knobs office, Dr. Periago will listen to your concerns and examine your mouth. If she believes treatment is indicated, a customized plan will be built for you that is based on your unique needs and goals. This plan will include the treatment method best suited to your smile! 
What are the different types of braces available?
As we mentioned above, recent advancements in orthodontics have led to more treatment options than ever before. If you’re looking for a total smile transformation, consider the braces that we offer our patients!
Traditional braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. Because they’re composed of a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other high-quality metals, the brackets are very long-lasting. Even so, they’re much lighter and more comfortable than they used to be. Patients can even add a pop of personality to their braces by customizing them with fun-colored elastics!
Metal braces are capable of delivering excellent results and can be especially useful in severe or complicated cases. Since they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do, they’re often a slightly more affordable option. The strength, durability, and cost-effective nature of braces keep them at the top of the treatment list, year after year.
Clear braces are also known as ceramic braces. They function in much the same way metal braces do but benefit from using semi-translucent or tooth-colored brackets. These brackets are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but they’re better able to blend in with a patient’s natural smile. When paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored elastics, they’re an incredibly discreet way to straighten the teeth!
While ceramic braces are durable, the material they’re made from is sometimes prone to chipping or cracking. Clear braces can also cost slightly more than their metal counterparts. They are generally better suited to adult and older teen patients for these reasons. Since metal braces can tolerate more pressure than ceramic ones, they may be a better option for those who have severe corrections that need to be made.
Both of our braces options can be a great fit for anyone looking to improve their oral health and achieve a straighter smile. Keep in mind, however, that every smile is unique! What works for one patient may not be a good fit for another. That’s why our expert team is committed to providing you with personalized care that will give you long-lasting results you’ll love!
How can indirect bonding improve the orthodontic experience?
One of the questions we hear most frequently is “how long will I be in braces?” Everyone wants their treatment to be as fast and comfortable as possible! Fortunately, we can help make that happen with indirect bonding. This process allows us to install braces more quickly and accurately, which translates to less time in the orthodontic chair when Dr. Periago places your brackets. Here’s how it works!
Step 1
The process of indirect bonding starts by creating a mold of your teeth. This takes just a few minutes and provides us with an exact replica of your mouth. We’ll use this to create a 1:1 model of your teeth. Dr. Periago will meticulously place each bracket on the teeth to ensure the most effective movement. At this point, we’ll use a customized tray to help us place the brackets exactly as directed by Dr. Periago.
Step 2
Once this custom tray is finished, your braces are ready to be installed! You’ll return to our office to have your custom tray fitted and your braces attached. With indirect bonding, Dr. Periago is able to place all the brackets at the same time. Instead of taking 40-60 minutes to install your braces, it will only take about 15-25!
Placing each bracket in the proper position on the lab model first eliminates the difficult process of placing orthodontic brackets directly onto the teeth. Indirect bonding makes this placement more accurate, allowing us to start things off on the right foot from day one! It also takes much less time and is more comfortable than traditional methods. It can even reduce the risk of developing loose brackets! This state-of-the-art technique is a growing trend in the world of orthodontics and we’re excited to offer it to our patients!
Find the right braces for your smile at Periago Orthodontics
At Periago Orthodontics, straighter smiles aren’t our only goal. We want to give you a positive and stress-free experience from your first visit to the last—and beyond. If you’re ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted, get in touch today to schedule a FREE consultation with our expert team!