Clip & Braces

Orthodontic Treatment with Clips & Braces

Orthodontic treatment using clips and braces is designed to correct misaligned teeth and jaws, improving both the appearance of your smile and the function of your bite. At Krishna Multispeciality Dental Clinic in Gudivada, we offer comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages, helping them achieve straighter teeth and healthier smiles.

Misaligned teeth and incorrect bites not only affect your appearance but can also lead to various oral health problems, including difficulty cleaning teeth, increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, abnormal wear of tooth enamel, and jaw problems. Our orthodontic treatments address these issues to improve both oral health and overall wellbeing.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments We Offer

Traditional Metal Braces

The most common type of braces, consisting of high-grade stainless steel brackets and wires. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive than ever before. Features include:

• Durable and effective for treating complex orthodontic issues
• Most economical option
• Colored elastics (rubber bands) option for younger patients
• Proven track record of successful treatment outcomes

Ceramic Braces

These work like traditional braces but are made with clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend with the teeth, making them less noticeable. Benefits include:

• More aesthetically pleasing than metal braces
• Equally effective as metal braces for many orthodontic issues
• Less visible from a distance
• Popular option for adults and appearance-conscious teens

Self-Ligating Braces

These advanced braces use a specialized clip instead of elastics to hold the archwire in place. Advantages include:

• Reduced friction and pressure on the teeth
• Potentially shorter treatment time
• Fewer adjustments and dental visits
• Easier cleaning with fewer places for plaque to accumulate
• Available in both metal and clear/ceramic versions

Clear Aligners

Custom-made, clear plastic trays that gradually move teeth into position. They are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Clear aligners offer:

• Virtually invisible orthodontic treatment
• Removable for easy cleaning and eating
• No food restrictions
• Comfortable with no metal brackets or wires
• Ideal for mild to moderate orthodontic issues

Common Orthodontic Problems We Treat

Crowded Teeth

When there isn't enough space in the jaw for all teeth to fit normally, leading to crooked and overlapping teeth that are difficult to clean and more prone to decay.

Spacing Issues

Gaps between teeth can occur due to missing teeth, small teeth relative to jaw size, or habits like thumb-sucking that push teeth apart.

Overbite

When the upper front teeth overlap significantly over the lower front teeth, potentially causing wear on lower teeth, gum problems, or even jaw pain.

Underbite

When the lower teeth protrude past the upper front teeth, causing potentially uneven tooth wear and difficulty in proper chewing and speaking.

Crossbite

When the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth, which can cause tooth stratification and uneven jaw growth.

Open Bite

When the upper and lower teeth don't meet when the mouth is closed, often related to habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.

The Orthodontic Treatment Process

Initial Consultation

Your journey to a straighter smile begins with a thorough examination of your teeth, jaw, and facial structure. This may include:

• Dental and medical history review
• Clinical examination
• X-rays and photographs
• Digital impressions or molds of your teeth
• Discussion of treatment options and expected outcomes

Placement of Braces or Initial Aligner Set

Depending on your chosen treatment option:

• For traditional braces: Brackets are bonded to teeth and connected with an archwire
• For clear aligners: The first set of custom aligners is provided with instructions for wear and care

Regular Adjustment Appointments

Throughout your treatment, you'll need regular visits to our clinic:

• Traditional braces: Adjustments usually every 4-8 weeks
• Clear aligners: New sets of aligners typically provided every 1-2 months
• Progress monitoring and potential treatment adjustments as needed

Completion of Treatment

When your treatment goals are achieved:

• Removal of braces or completion of aligner series
• Fitting of retainers to maintain your new smile
• Final examination and discussion of long-term maintenance

Caring for Your Braces and Aligners

Oral Hygiene with Braces

Proper cleaning is essential during orthodontic treatment:

• Brush thoroughly after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use floss threaders or orthodontic flossers to clean between teeth
• Consider water flossers for more effective cleaning around brackets
• Use interdental brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas around brackets
• Schedule regular professional cleanings

Foods to Avoid with Braces

To prevent damage to your braces, avoid:

• Hard foods like nuts, ice, and hard candies
• Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum
• Chewy foods like bagels and hard rolls
• Foods you have to bite into like apples and corn on the cob (cut these into smaller pieces instead)
• Sugary foods and drinks that can lead to decay around brackets

Clear Aligner Care

Proper aligner maintenance includes:

• Remove aligners when eating or drinking anything except water
• Brush and floss teeth before reinserting aligners
• Clean aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap
• Store aligners in their case when not in use
• Avoid hot water which can warp the plastic
• Wear aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day

The Importance of Retainers

After your active orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers are crucial to maintain your results. Without proper retainer use, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions. We offer:

• Removable Retainers: Clear plastic retainers or wire retainers with acrylic that can be taken out for cleaning
• Fixed Retainers: Thin wires bonded to the back of teeth to provide continuous retention

Initially, retainers are typically worn full-time, then gradually reduced to nighttime wear only. Following your orthodontist's instructions about retainer wear is critical for long-term success.