Orthodontics (Braces for adults and children) in Tacoma, WA

Braces are recommended for patients of all ages. Many children starting at age 8, receive early orthodontic treatment to guide their smiles in the right direction. Children may need to wear an orthodontic device for a few years as their teeth move into the correct positions. Adults can also benefit from wearing braces to correct misalignments or overcrowding. Misaligned teeth for some patients cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing. Crowded teeth increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay because cleaning these teeth are challenging. 

Orthodontic treatment uses gentle pressure to move your teeth into proper alignment. Today’s braces are more comfortable and more attractive than ever. They are typically made from metal, ceramic, or plastic materials and can be customized to blend in with your natural smile. The brackets are bonded to the front of your teeth using an adhesive. Brackets come in different sizes to accommodate your unique smile. A wire is threaded through the brackets and held in place with tiny rubber bands. The pressure exerted by the wires onto the teeth and rubber bands gently moves the teeth into the desired position. At My Tacoma Dentist - David Wagner will examine your smile and make a recommendation regarding the best type of braces for you.

Orthodontic treatment at My Tacoma Dentist - David Wagner DDS, includes using braces to straighten teeth. Braces use gentle pressure to move your teeth into proper alignment. Today’s braces are more comfortable and more attractive than ever. They are typically made from metal or ceramic, or plastic materials and can be customized to blend in with your natural smile. The brackets are bonded to the front of your teeth using an adhesive. Brackets come in different sizes to accommodate your unique smile. A wire is threaded through the brackets and held in place with tiny rubber bands. The pressure exerted by the wires onto the teeth and rubber bands gently moves the teeth into the desired position. Our dentist will examine your smile and make a recommendation regarding the best type of braces for you.

Braces are recommended for patients of all ages. Many children receive early orthodontic treatment to guide their smiles in the right direction. Children may need to wear an orthodontic device for a few years as their teeth move into the correct positions. Adults can also benefit from wearing braces to correct misalignments or overcrowding. You may also be recommended to wear a brace after wearing a fixed bridge or removable denture for some time. Braces can correct tooth gaps caused by missing teeth as well. 

Types of Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most commonly used type of orthodontic treatment. They work by applying constant pressure to the teeth to move them into their proper positions, resulting in straight teeth and an even bite. These braces consist of brackets, wires, and bands that gently move the teeth into place.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces, except the brackets are made from a clear or tooth-colored material. This makes removing food particles and plaque easier, making them more hygienic than metal braces. They are still durable and reliable and are an excellent treatment option for patients of all ages.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners like Invisalign use a series of clear, removable trays that fit over the teeth to straighten them over time. They are nearly invisible when worn and act in the same way as traditional metal braces without the inconveniences of having to wear metal braces. They can be removed for eating and cleaning but should be worn for at least 22 hours daily to achieve optimal results. Unlike porcelain braces, these clear aligners cannot be used with patients who have severely misaligned teeth.

Benefits of Wearing Braces

• Correcting bite issues
• Improving the aesthetics of the smile
• Straightening crooked or misaligned teeth
• Enhancing oral health
• Preventing future dental problems
• Helping prevent TMJ disorders

Visit My Tacoma Dentist - David Wagner DDS, at 1919 N. Pearl St. Suite A-3, Tacoma, WA, 98406, or call (253) 761-5299 to learn more about braces and other orthodontic treatments.