Orthodontics in Coral Gables, FL
Orthodontics used to consist of large metal bands that were placed around each tooth in order to move the teeth. The latest materials are far less noticeable and our innovative dental technology enables us to move teeth faster. Orthodontic appliances today are made of metal, ceramic or plastic. They may be removable appliances or they may be brackets bonded directly to the teeth. The appliance will place a constant, yet gentle force on the teeth, which moves them into the proper position.
Metal Brackets
Metal brackets are small brackets that are bonded directly to each tooth and attached with a wire. These metal brackets and wires are far less noticeable than they used to be! Children and adults of all ages are choosing metal brackets for their orthodontic needs.
Clear or Ceramic Braces
Clear braces are similar to metal braces but are made of white material and are virtually undetectable! They bond to the front of the tooth and are connected by a wire. These braces are used mostly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. They do require a little more attention, which is why your dentist in Coral Gables, FL will let you know if they are the right options for you!
Other appliances are used in combination or in conjunction with braces and must be used as directed by Dr. Velazquez. Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment, so make sure to take care of all your appliances. Your teeth and jaw can only move into their correct position if you consistently wear your prescribed rubber bands, headgear, retainers or another appliance.
- Rubber Bands. Wearing elastic rubber bands improves the fit of your upper and lower teeth as they come together. They must be worn as directed for best results.
- Spacers. Spacers are little rubber doughnuts that are placed between the teeth to separate them so that orthodontic bands may be placed. They may feel like something is stuck between your teeth but need to be left in place until instructed. They will be removed before the bands are placed.
- Palatal Expander. The expander widens the upper jaw with gentle pressure on the upper molars. You may be able to adjust your expander at home or you may have to visit us at our Coral Gables, FL dental office.
- Headgear. Headgear is used to treat patients whose teeth are in an overbite or an underbite. An overbite is when the upper jaw is too far forward of the lower jaw and an underbite is when the lower jaw is forward of the upper jaw. Headgear gently pulls on the teeth to correct the jaw discrepancy.
- Herbst Appliance. This appliance is in the mouth and helps reduce an overbite by encouraging the lower jaw forward and the upper molars backward. This appliance is used mostly in growing children and is worn for about a year, but is different for everyone.
- Positioners. Positioners complete the final tooth movement and may only need to be worn for 4 to 8 weeks.
- Retainers. Retainers may be fixed or removable. They act to hold your teeth in their new, correct position. You will be instructed on how to care for the retainers and keep them very clean. It is very important to wear your retainers as directed to prevent regression of your treatment!
Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial Orthopedics is the process of normalizing the growth of a patient's bone structure and repairing any imbalances of the face and jaws.
Accelerated Braces
Traditional braces are a great way to have a beautiful smile, but the amount of time it takes can be disheartening. Luckily, there is the option of accelerated orthodontics. At AVM Dentistry, accelerated orthodontics is available for anyone that doesn't want to wait 2-4 years to have straight teeth. The majority of patients have straight teeth within 3-5 months, though it can take up to eight months for severe cases.
