When people think of orthodontics, they often think of traditional metal braces. While braces are a highly effective orthodontic treatment, there are many other options available to help straighten your teeth and correct your bite. At our Orthodontist in Baton Rouge  practice, we offer a range of orthodontic services beyond traditional braces. In this article, we'll explore some of the other treatments we offer and how they can benefit you.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces. It uses clear plastic aligners to gradually shift the teeth into the correct position. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and are replaced every two weeks.

One of the main benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are nearly invisible, making them a great option for people who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. Invisalign aligners are also more comfortable than traditional braces since they do not have any brackets or wires that can cause discomfort.

Another advantage of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. This means that you can take them out when you eat, brush your teeth, or floss. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but they are attached to the back of the teeth, making them completely invisible from the front. Lingual braces are custom-made for each patient and can correct even severe orthodontic issues.

One of the main benefits of lingual braces is that they are completely invisible, making them a great option for people who are concerned about the appearance of their braces. Lingual braces are also highly effective, as they can correct even severe orthodontic issues.

One potential disadvantage of lingual braces is that they can be more difficult to clean than traditional braces since they are attached to the back of the teeth. Patients may need to take extra care when brushing and flossing to ensure that their teeth and gums stay healthy during treatment.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but they use clear or tooth-colored brackets and wires, making them less noticeable and more aesthetically pleasing. Ceramic braces are custom-made for each patient and can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues.

One of the main benefits of ceramic braces is that they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces, making them a great option for people who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. Ceramic braces are also more comfortable than metal braces since they do not have any sharp edges or rough surfaces that can cause discomfort.

One potential disadvantage of ceramic braces is that they can be more fragile than metal braces and may require more frequent adjustments. Patients may need to be more careful when eating hard or sticky foods to avoid damaging their braces.

Retainers

Retainers are custom-made orthodontic devices that are used to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment. After braces or other orthodontic treatment, patients typically wear a retainer for a period of time to ensure that their teeth stay in the correct position.

There are two main types of retainers: removable and permanent. Removable retainers are similar to Invisalign aligners in that they are made from clear plastic and can be removed for eating and oral hygiene. Permanent retainers are small wires that are bonded to the back of the teeth and are not visible from the front.

The main benefit of retainers is that they help to ensure that the results of orthodontic treatment are maintained over time. By wearing a retainer as directed by your orthodontist, you can prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position.

Choosing the Right Orthodontic Service

Choosing the right orthodontic service depends on your specific needs and goals.