With thanks to substantial advances in orthodontic technology, Dr. Donna Panucci makes every attempt to provide patients with multiple options to wearing braces. In today’s Orthodontic world, metal braces are still commonplace. clear braces are on the rise, in terms of popularity with teens and self-conscious adults. Invisalign removable aligners, are a “braceless” alternative to acquiring a better smile, and straighter teeth. Dr. Donna Panucci will assist you, and make the determination regarding your best treatment option.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are still the most traditional type of braces used in the field of Orthodontics. With breakthroughs in technology and changes in design however, metal braces are now smaller in size, and patients agree they and more comfortable than they were even a year ago. Metal braces are made from high-grade space age metal alloys, that resist breakage better than braces in years past. Patients also have the option of colored elastics (rubber bands), and brackets, which adds to a unique and colorful smile.
Ceramic Braces
More popular among the adult community, Ceramic braces are constructed of “see through” materials and are less noticeable. This is one of a few reasons ceramic braces are popular among teenage and adult patients who have concerns regarding appearance and aesthetics. Ceramic braces do require diligence with regard to oral hygiene.
Self-Ligating Braces
A new, advanced braces system that is fast becoming the favorite choice for many orthodontic patients, for many reasons. Self-ligating braces provide a beautiful smile without uncomfortable and unsightly ties or elastics, and can drastically reduce the amount of time required to wear braces. Read more about self-ligating braces.
Invisible Braces
Invisalign is the preferred choice among adults and teens since they are removable, virtually invisible and extremely comfortable. Invisalign’s carefully crafted aligners are used to correct, and manipulate teeth. Patients have said that in most cases no one was able to tell they were wearing them. Invisalign aligners are also removable so there are no limits to what you may eat, or drink. Brushing and flossing are also made easier. Aligners have no metal, are crafter from a type of plastic that is durable and contains no metal. Patients who chose Invisalign say there is minimal, or no irritation caused from these appliances. Read more about Invisalign.
Retainers
It is clear that orthodontic treatment benefits last a lifetime, especially when the following important patient responsibilities are kept in mind:
Removable Retainers
Following the removal of active orthodontic appliances, patients receive retainers. These devices are created to stabilize corrections made by previous appliances. Since bones and soft tissue stabilize over a period of several months (following the removal of braces), Farming Smiles strongly advises retainers be used as directed by Dr. Panucci.
Patients that fail to follow Dr. Panucci’s orders can experience undesirable movement of teeth. This could of course, necessitate re-treatment and push back the clock on your new and improved smile.
How are Retainers Worn?
Teeth can continue changing position throughout life. Dr. Panucci recommends that her patients wear retainers indefinitely, and they should be worn 24/7 for the first year following removal of previous orthodontic appliances.
Once patients move beyond the first-year mark, wearing retainers only at night is usually sufficient. Doing so allows wisdom teeth to erupt without ruining the new smile Dr. Panucci has helped create. Dr. Panucci recommends patients visit her office bi-annually for recommendations regarding wisdom teeth. An X-ray will be taken for patients every six months.
Once the decision regarding wisdom teeth has been made, Dr. Panucci recommends wearing the retainers for at least one evening per week. As we grow older, muscles surrounding teeth get tighter, creating movement and possible crowding.
How Do I care For My Retainer?
Since retainers are constructed of thermoplastic material, they are somewhat sensitive to excessive heat. Therefore Dr. Panucci recommends storing them away from any place where the temperatures exceed 115 degrees. This includes places like your car dashboard or near household heaters. It is also recommended patients keep retainers in their proper case, when not in a patient’s mouth. If you have pets, please keep retainers out of their reach. Some pets enjoy chewing on them, oddly enough.
Before and after placement in the mouth, you should clean your retainer properly. The thermoplastic material used to create the retainer is slightly porous, so there will likely be a plaque buildup on the surface. Sometimes plaque is less visible, so cleaning should be done regardless. Dr. Panucci recommends using a toothbrush to gently scrub retainers. Mild soap or denture cleaning solutions such as Efferdent work just fine. They can also help remove stubborn stains or tartar. Rinse your retainer thoroughly once you’ve cleaned it properly to eliminate any residue left behind.
Many retainers are worn for years, so patients will require periodic replacement. Dr. Panucci’s treatment plan includes one set of retainers, once previous orthodontic appliances are removed. Sometimes retainers are lost, or damaged due to neglect. If this should happen, Panucci Orthodontics will require a fee to replace them. If retainers break or loosen, please contact us immediately to schedule an appointment.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
Fixed retainers will protect teeth as patients age, and facial muscles tighten. Bonded wires are fixed and permanent in most cases. However, your family dentist may discover (during a routine visit) that patients are not properly maintaining or caring for the appliance, and that through neglect have created self-inflicted bone or gum issues. If this happens, wires will need to be removed and replaced with a removable retainer. Removable retainers must be worn as Dr. Panucci prescribes.
It is strongly advised that your family dentist monitor wires during six-month check-ups.
What are some habits that may require stronger retention?
- Grinding of teeth (muscle hyperactivity), or jaw clenching.
- Mouth breathing
- Playing a musical instrument with a reed
- Tongue thrusting, due to a lower tongue posture or anomalous tongue posture.
- Pencil biting, or chewing on hard objects.
- Lip sucking.
- Rotation of teeth (severe).
- Spacing between teeth before orthodontic treatment.
Dental Examinations and Cleanings
Farming Smiles and Dr. Panucci recommend continuing with proper oral hygiene while at home. This includes developing thorough brushing and flossing habits. Patients should continue seeing their family dentist every six months dental exams and cleanings.