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Braces transform your smile’s aesthetics and function. Helene Julius, DDS, and the expert team at Applemint Dental provide effective braces treatment plans in Beverly Hills, California. The team offers several options, including ceramic and metal braces, as well as Invisalign®. Treatment can address issues like underbite, overbite, and crossbite and enhance your smile’s appearance. Schedule a consultation for orthodontic treatment today by phone or online.
How do braces work?
Traditional braces utilize an intricate combination of brackets, wires, and bands to gradually align teeth. They work by applying pressure to specific points of the dental arch, moving teeth into optimal positions for chewing, biting, and maintaining oral hygiene.
Applemint Dental offers a diverse selection of braces, including ceramic and metal options. Lingual braces are placed on the back surfaces of teeth instead of the front, making them less noticeable.
If you want to straighten your teeth without the hassle of traditional braces, Invisalign® is a great option. These clear aligners utilize a series of tight-fitting, clear trays that move your teeth in small increments. You can easily remove them whenever you eat or socialize.
What can braces treat?
Braces treat several issues, including:
- Small or large gaps in the teeth
- Crowded or cramped teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Open bite
- Crooked teeth
- Crossbite
- Malocclusion (misaligned teeth)
Although it’s common for children to receive braces, adults can also benefit from treatment. An estimated 4 million Americans wear braces, and 1 in 4 are adults.
Are there dietary restrictions when I have braces?
Applemint Dental educates you on managing traditional braces and may advise against potentially damaging foods such as:
- Hard candies
- Gum (unless it’s sugar-free)
- Nuts
- Popcorn
- Beef jerky
- Whole apples
Also, avoid chewing on items like pencils, toothpicks, or your fingernails.
If you choose Invisalign, always take out your aligners when eating, brushing, and flossing.
How long do I need to wear braces?
With traditional braces, the duration of your treatment depends on your teeth's starting condition and desired outcome. During the consultation phase, your provider can estimate how your teeth will move and give you an estimate of how long you’ll wear the braces.
Typically, patients wear traditional braces for 12-24 months.
With Invisalign, you’re responsible for putting in and removing the aligner trays. You’ll need to commit to wearing them 20-22 hours a day.
You can expect to wear each tray for 1-2 weeks and visit Applemint Dental every 6-8 weeks to receive your next set of aligners.
The more adjustments your teeth need, the longer you’ll have to wear Invisalign. The treatment typically takes 12 months.
To begin your journey to a straighter smile, call Applemint Dental today or schedule an initial consultation online.