
May
Braces and their modern alternatives are generally based on similar principles. At the heart of these treatments is the generation of gentle yet consistent forces or pressure. This pressure is placed on the teeth to straighten them over several months gradually. In repositioning the teeth, orthodontists and dentists like Dr. Taylor Barton correct everything from minor crowding to more extensive overbite or underbite. Yet, the “hardware” they use to generate and place the constant force on the teeth differs and can make all the difference in patients’ treatment experiences. Here are five benefits of invisible teeth aligners at Intentional Smiles in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Braces have traditionally been made with silver-colored or dark-hued stainless steel brackets, wires, and special rubber bands or elastics. Aligners are special appliances made from clear or transparent plastics. Since these plastics are see-through, they are not visible when you smile. Teens and adult patients can retain their shining confidence throughout treatment because their smiles are not hidden behind obvious-looking metal and elastics.
Today’s braces alternatives are made from safe and advanced plastics. These plastics are engineered to flex with your mouth—they are not rigid—so they add to your comfort during treatment. Additionally, our patients who undergo therapy with clear aligners do not have to worry about uncomfortable wires and other hardware rubbing up against the insides of their mouths. Lastly, the aligners themselves are made from advanced software. This ensures a precise and comfortable fit.
Braces have traditionally been “fixed” to the teeth, which means only dental professionals can remove them. You can easily take them in and out of your mouth with aligners whenever you want. However, keeping the aligners in your mouth for at least 20 to 22 hours each day is generally advised. This helps to keep your treatment right on track. Removing these appliances supports healthy nutrition and effective brushing and flossing throughout treatment because you take aligners out before meals and clean your teeth and gums. Also, since Dr. Barton does not need to tighten or adjust these appliances, minimal “check-ins” at our office are required.
Depending on your needs, you can straighten your teeth in a fraction of the time of traditional braces, requiring upwards of two years of treatment. The pioneering Invisalign® aligners brand reports that the average treatment time is 12 to 18 months.
As an advanced, technology-based system, clear aligners allow us to create virtual models of your mouth. These models are also used to make your precision-fit appliances. Intentional Smiles likes them because we can show you how your teeth will look after treatment using visualization/simulation software. You can feel confident in your treatment decision! To get started, schedule your clear aligners consultation today in Edmond, OK, by calling (405) 348-2266.
Dr. Taylor Barton has over 16 years of experience in dentistry, with nine years as a practicing dentist. Dr. Barton attended the University of Oklahoma, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology and a Master of Arts in Dietetics, then achieved his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and immediately pursued an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency where he focused on treating complex full mouth rehabilitations and implant dentistry.
An active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, American Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Association, and Oklahoma County Dental Association, Dr. Barton is dedicated to delivering exceptional and personalized dental care. His practice is built around trust and bringing back the truest form of the doctor-patient relationship. Known for his expertise in minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry and commitment to providing convenient care through the use of advanced technology, he is dedicated to ensuring patients receive the highest level of esthetic and functional dental care.