Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive.
Nance Appliance
Depending on the needs of the patient, a Nance Appliance can be used to slightly expand or rotate the upper molars or hold the molars in place, following the movement of teeth. The appliance is commonly used to prevent upper molars from drifting forward. It is sometimes used as a fixed upper retainer.
This fixed appliance fits across the roof of the mouth. Bands are placed on the upper arch of the two back molars. A wire is used to connect the inside of the bands. A piece of acrylic, which fits against the roof of the mouth, sits in the center of the wire. The patient can choose the color of the acrylic.
A Nance Appliance can be placed in the mouth, generally three to four months following the movement of teeth.
While the appliance is fixed in the mouth, patients should brush their teeth as normal. However, the roof of the mouth should be brushed thoroughly. This will prevent the gums around the appliance from getting swollen or inflamed.
Patients should not drink carbonated beverages, or eat hard foods, like popcorn, nuts, doritos and nachos nor sticky foods like caramel, taffy and or gummy bears, while wearing the appliance. This will prevent damage to the appliance.
Interproximal Recontouring
This procedure is sometimes used to gain space for alignment. It prevents the need for extracting permanent teeth and increases stability.
In order to make a small amount of space, a high speed dental hand piece with a diamond bur is used between the teeth. A bur is a rotating cutting tool usually made of steel or another hard metal and is used to remove decay from teeth and to prepare cavities for filling.
The procedure is safe and effective. Injection (shots) are not required for the procedure.