It is commonly believed that orthodontic treatment is only for children and teenagers. However, this is not true. Orthodontic treatment can be for anyone of any age. There are different types of orthodontic services that cater to different age groups. Here are some of the different types of orthodontic services you should know about:
- Traditional Orthodontics: This is the most common type of orthodontic treatment in Medicine Hat. It uses metal braces to correct misaligned teeth. Traditional orthodontics is usually recommended for children and teenagers because their teeth are still growing and shifting. Metal braces are also the most affordable type of braces.
- Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces are made of clear or tooth-colored brackets. They are less visible than metal braces and are often used for adults who want to discreetly correct their teeth. Ceramic braces are more fragile than metal braces and can be more expensive.
- Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are metal braces that are placed on the back side of the teeth. They are completely invisible from the front and are ideal for people who want to discreetly straighten their teeth. Lingual braces can be more expensive than other types of braces and can be more difficult to clean.
- Invisalign: Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. It is popular among teenagers and adults who want to avoid metal braces. Invisalign is more expensive than traditional braces but is less visible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
- Damon Braces: Damon braces are metal braces that use self-ligating brackets. They are smaller and less visible than traditional braces and can be more comfortable to wear. Damon braces are more expensive than traditional braces but can be less painful and require fewer adjustments.
- ClearCorrect: ClearCorrect is a type of clear aligner that is similar to Invisalign. It is less expensive than Invisalign but is not as well-known. ClearCorrect can be a good option for people who want to discreetly straighten their teeth without breaking the bank.
- Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expander (SARPE): SARPE is a type of orthodontic treatment that is used to correct a narrow upper jaw. It is typically used for children who are still growing. SARPE is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the palate and attaching metal screws. The screws are gradually expanded over time to widen the jaw. SARPE can be a more aggressive treatment option and is typically only used when other treatments have failed.
- Orthognathic Surgery: Orthognathic surgery is a type of surgery that is used to correct severe misalignment of the teeth and jaws. It is typically used for adults who have completed growth. Orthognathic surgery is a major surgery that can be very expensive. It is usually only considered when other treatments have failed.
- Facemask Therapy: Facemask therapy is a type of orthodontic treatment that is used to correct severe underbite. It is typically used for children and teenagers who are still growing. Facemask therapy involves wearing a mask that attaches to the teeth and pulls the lower jaw forward. This helps to correct the underbite and improve the alignment of the teeth. Facemask therapy can be uncomfortable and can require wearing the mask for several hours a day.
- Jaw Surgery: Jaw surgery is a type of surgery that is used to correct severe misalignment of the jaws. It is typically used for adults who have completed growth. Jaw surgery is a major surgery that can be very expensive. It is usually only considered when other treatments have failed.
The Bottom Line
Orthodontic treatment can be for anyone of any age. There are different types of orthodontic services in Medicine Hat that cater to different age groups.
Traditional orthodontics is usually recommended for children and teenagers. Ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign are popular among teenagers and adults.
Damon braces, ClearCorrect, SARPE, and orthognathic surgery are typically used for more severe misalignments. Facemask therapy and jaw surgery are usually only considered when other treatments have failed.
No matter what orthodontic service you choose, make sure you consult a reputed orthodontist before opting for any treatment!
