Braces in Katy, TX

Braces are devices that help move the teeth into the proper position. Braces can be either fixed or removable. Braces work by placing constant pressure on the teeth, which causes them to move into the correct position.

Braces are worn for anywhere between six months to three years, depending on the severity of the misalignment of the teeth. This time frame may vary based on your individual situation. Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than they were in the past. Modern braces are small in size, sleek in aesthetic, and comfortable to wear around your teeth.

How Do Braces Help?

Braces work by applying pressure to the teeth, causing them to move gradually into the desired position. This creates a beautiful smile and helps align the bite, and improves overall oral health. The different types of braces are traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign® clear plastic aligners.

Metal braces are the most common type. They have brackets that are attached to the front of the teeth and an archwire that connects them. They are very effective for moving the teeth but require special instructions to make sure they are cleaned properly to avoid food buildup or tooth decay on the brackets. Ceramic braces are very similar to metal braces but are translucent instead of metallic in appearance. They blend in more with the smile than metal braces do. Clear plastic aligners are custom-made to fit over the teeth to gradually guide them into alignment. Because they are removable, there are no dietary restrictions like with metal braces, and the aligners can be brushed and flossed normally. During treatment, patients switch out the aligners every two weeks to continue to guide their teeth into their ideal positions.

All of the orthodontic options are effective but can be compared based on certain factors. Patients should discuss the options with their doctor to see which one is best for their specific needs and lifestyle. Factors that should also be considered include how severe the misalignment is, how quickly the patient wants results, and how much care the treatment requires. 

Types of Braces

There are different types of braces, like traditional braces, invisible braces, and other types of braces, depending on the patient’s needs and budget.

Traditional Braces in Katy, TX

Traditional braces are the traditional metal brackets and wires that are the most common type of braces used to straighten teeth. These have been made more sophisticated over the years with the introduction of colorful elastics and smaller brackets to make them less noticeable. These are considered the most expensive option but are extremely effective in straightening the teeth while also being the most affordable option for complex cases.

Traditional braces consist of metal brackets that are attached to each tooth and connected by a wire, which is held in place with elastics. The elastics help to secure your teeth into the correct position. Traditional braces are very effective for correcting more severe orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth or bite problems. They can also be used to correct misalignment of the jaw or face.

Your orthodontist will likely recommend traditional braces if you have any of the following conditions:

• Crowded teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• Misaligned jaw
• Severe overcrowding