Orthodontic treatment has advanced significantly with modern dental technology. Today’s appliances allow orthodontists to move teeth with greater precision and comfort than ever before. Among these innovations, orthodontic braces remain the foundation of effective care, helping patients achieve healthy, well-aligned smiles.
At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, we combine proven techniques with the latest orthodontic systems to deliver tailored results. Our three primary treatment options address a wide range of orthodontic needs.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)
Temporary Anchorage Devices, or TADs, are small titanium implants used as stable anchors to help move teeth accurately. Approved by the FDA in 2005, they replaced traditional headgear that depended on patient compliance. TADs provide constant support, improving control and efficiency during treatment.
Placement and Procedure
Made from durable, biocompatible titanium alloy, each TAD includes a screw-like body that anchors into the bone and a small head that connects to orthodontic wires or elastics.
Placement is minimally invasive and quick. After numbing the area with a topical anesthetic, the orthodontist gently inserts the TAD into the jawbone. Since bone tissue lacks pain receptors, the procedure is typically painless. Removal is equally simple once treatment ends.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining TADs is straightforward. Brush around the device with a soft toothbrush three times daily and use the antimicrobial mouthwash provided by your orthodontist. This helps prevent bacterial buildup and supports healthy gum tissue. Any minor soreness after placement is usually brief and manageable with over-the-counter medication. Most patients require TADs for only a few months, depending on treatment complexity.
Clear Orthodontic Braces
Clear braces function like traditional orthodontic braces but are designed to be less noticeable. Instead of metal brackets, they use clear or tooth-colored ceramic ones that blend with natural teeth. These can be paired with clear or metal wires, depending on your aesthetic goals. Their discreet look makes them a popular choice for adults and teens.
Patients visit their orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments. Treatment generally lasts between one and three years, followed by a retainer phase to preserve results. Continuous movement also allows clear braces to achieve outcomes faster than some removable aligners.
Care and Considerations
While clear braces are effective and discreet, they require consistent oral hygiene. Ceramic brackets can stain from coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauces, and smoking. Brushing after meals and maintaining good hygiene help preserve their clarity.
Although clear braces are typically more expensive than metal options, many patients find the aesthetic benefits worth the investment. Your orthodontist can review financing options to help make treatment more affordable.
Invisalign® Orthodontic Braces
Invisalign® is a system of custom-made, removable aligners that straighten teeth without metal brackets or wires. Approved by the FDA in 1998, Invisalign® has become one of the most popular alternatives to traditional braces.
Each aligner is made of smooth, medical-grade polyurethane resin and is nearly invisible when worn. Patients wear each set for 1 to 2 weeks before switching to the next, gradually guiding their teeth into alignment.
Benefits of Invisalign®
- Comfort: Smooth material minimizes irritation.
- Convenience: Aligners are removable for eating and brushing.
- Discreet appearance: Clear design makes them nearly undetectable.
- Easy maintenance: Oral hygiene is simpler than with fixed braces.
While Invisalign® often costs more than traditional braces, its comfort, convenience, and subtle design make it worthwhile for many patients. It effectively treats mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues, with treatment averaging around 12 months. Modern Invisalign® systems now address a broader range of orthodontic problems, offering a flexible and clear solution for most patients.
Begin Your Dental Journey With Orthodontic Braces
The right orthodontic approach depends on your unique dental needs, lifestyle, and preferences. At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, our specialists evaluate each patient carefully to create a personalized treatment plan that ensures lasting results.
If you’re considering orthodontic braces, schedule a free consultation at one of our five convenient locations. Our team is committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile with advanced orthodontic care.
