Invisalign vs. Braces
Oregon City, OR
 Children and teenagers have the most to gain from professional orthodontic treatment, which often involves wearing braces. Correcting misalignments is easier and more effective while the teeth and jaw are still growing and developing. Our primary goal here at Great Grins for KIDS - Oregon City is to establish a strong foundation of properly aligned teeth, resulting in a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come!
Types of Braces and Other Appliances
There is a wide-variety of orthodontic treatments designed to correct crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and malocclusions (misaligned bites). The type of treatment we recommend depends on your child’s circumstance and the severity of their issues. The most common types of braces and other appliances include:
Conventional Metal Braces
Most people are familiar with conventional braces, which consist of metal brackets, a metal wire, and elastic bands. The brackets are bonded to the front surface of each tooth and connected with the wire. The elastic bands, which we replace at every tightening appointment, help keep the wire in place.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces follow the same basic principles as metal ones. Throughout treatment, the wire is periodically tightened, which places pressure on the teeth, slowly moving them to their proper position. However, ceramic brackets can be color-matched to the shade of natural enamel, making them a discreet, yet equally effective alternative.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces also operate the same way as the first two appliances, with the same components. The main difference is placement. Lingual brackets are bonded to the back of each tooth, effectively hiding the appliance. If your child is concerned with their appearance, but still has complex orthodontic issues, lingual braces may be the ideal solution.
Clear Aligner Trays
As the name suggests, this type of treatment involves a series of plastic trays. Each tray puts a gentle amount of pressure on the teeth, slowly moving them to a straighter position than the previous tray. Many patients opt for aligner trays due to their discrete nature and improved comfort. However, correcting complex issues may require a more effective appliance. Successful treatment is also dictated by your willingness to wear the trays. Some children may struggle to fully commit to their trays, which can lengthen treatment times, and not produce as successful of results.
When to See an Orthodontist
Straighter, properly-aligned teeth provide a more esthetically-pleasing smile and improve long-term oral health. Crooked, crowded, and abnormally-positioned teeth can be much more difficult to keep clean. Without proper brushing and flossing, tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems are inevitable.
A malocclusion can also create additional problems for your child’s oral health. A properly-aligned bite and jaw can prevent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders and bruxism (teeth grinding). This reduces the risk of premature enamel wear, painful jaw conditions, and cracks or fractures.
Our doctors at Great Grins for KIDS - Oregon City recommend scheduling a consultation appointment if your child exhibits the following signs:| • |
Premature or late loss of primary (baby) teeth
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Crowded, crooked, or gapped teeth
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Teeth that do not come together properly while biting down
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A hard time chewing or speaking
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Mouth breathing
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Grating or popping sounds when opening and closing the jaw
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Teeth or jaw that seem disproportionate to the rest of the face |
Schedule Your Child’s Consultation
If your child is in need of braces or additional orthodontic treatment, you have come to the right place! Call Great Grins for KIDS - Oregon City at 971-470-0045 to schedule their consultation appointment today!
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