If there is one thing we know, it’s that dental technology will always be advancing as innovators provide our market with new and improved ways to treat our patients. At Henneberry Orthodontics we use state-of-the-art technology with Dr. Henneberry’s extensive educational background to provide our patients with the best care possible. We are able to successfully treat many dental issues, such as:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Crossbite
- Impacted teeth
Many of the patients we treat here at Henneberry Orthodontics will end up choosing traditional metal braces as their form of treatment. While metal braces are the most common way to treat patients orthodontically, we actually have several other options to choose from. When you see Dr. Henneberry for your free initial consultation, he will discuss which treatment options are available to you and what he would recommend based on your unique needs and specific smile goals.
Attached vs. Removable Appliances
Before we dive deeper into available treatment options, it’s important to understand the difference between attached and removable appliances. Attached appliances, such as braces, are attached to your teeth with special glue and aren’t taken off until treatment is concluded. Removable appliances, like Invisalign’s aligner system, are usually worn 20-22 hours a day, but can be easily taken on and off when needed.
Besides the obvious differences between attached vs. removable, Invisalign aligners are best at treating mild to moderate orthodontic problems, while attached appliance like braces are preferred for more serious and comprehensive treatment. Both braces and Invisalign have their advantages, and Dr. Henneberry will help guide you in deciding which option is best for you.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most commonly used type of attached orthodontic appliance. They are made of a mix of high-grade stainless steel, nickel, and other metals, and consist of bands that wrap around the back molars, and smaller more discrete metal brackets that are glued to the front surfaces of the other teeth. The “wire” is thin and connected to the brackets by elastic ties. The wire is what gently guides your teeth into the correct position over time.
Since they have been around for close to a century, traditional metal braces are a dependable, efficient, and economical method that has stood the test of time. Previous versions of metal braces were bulky, awkward, and sometimes even overly painful. Fortunately, today’s versions are much smaller and more comfortable than ever before. The best part is you can customize them by choosing your own elastic colors!
Ceramic Braces
Even though traditional metal braces are our most popular treatment option, ceramic braces can be a great choice for some patients. Also known as “clear” braces, they are a new twist on conventional metal brackets and are much less visible. Not all ceramic braces are the same, with some less noticeable than others. At Henneberry Orthodontics we use the best ceramic bracket on the market, and our patients love it! What’s even better is we do NOT charge extra for upper ceramic braces. We believe that if you prefer ceramic braces, then you shouldn’t have to pay more for them. Other offices typically charge hundreds extra for this option, but not with us!
Although technology around ceramic brackets is always improving, they sometimes can be a little more prone to breakage than their metal counterparts. Also, with deep bites it is sometimes not indicated to use ceramic brackets on the lower teeth. For many of our patients – especially adults – ceramic braces are a great option that is significantly less noticeable than metal braces.
Invisalign
Unlike traditional braces which are glued to your teeth and cannot be removed until treatment is completed, Invisalign is a completely removable orthodontic treatment. The Invisalign system is composed of a series of fully customized, clear trays called aligners that are nearly invisible and completely removable. You can take them out to eat, floss, and brush your teeth. We recommend our patients wear them 20-22 hours a day and change out their trays weekly. With this method, your teeth are gradually moved into their desired positions.
It’s important to understand that Invisalign is just a company that makes plastic. The most important step towards a great result is the treatment plan, which is personally customized solely by Dr. Henneberry. Dr. Henneberry has taken extensive training in clear aligners and will make sure your case is planned correctly so that you will love your result. Every step of our process is state-of-the-art, from our 3D scanner that replaces gross impressions, to Dr. Henneberry taking the time to correctly plan and customize your aligners.
