Tried and True Method – Metal and Ceramic Options
Metal braces are the most common type of braces for orthodontic patients…keeping it classic. Made of nickel-free high-grade steel, they are much smaller and more comfortable than those in the past. We offer a variety of colored elastics, which may be changed at most appointments. Clear or Ceramic Braces are transparent braces paired with normal wires.
Why do people choose traditional braces? Traditional metal braces are still the most popular, quickest, and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available and Dr. Wu can help you determine which treatment is best for your individual case. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about how braces can enhance your smile!
Clear Aligners that Incrementally Move your Teeth
Invisalign treatment is a technique that straightens your teeth without braces, using a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-modeled to fit your teeth. The virtually invisible aligners gradually reposition your teeth into a smile of which you will be proud of.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign has no metal bands or wires to trap food and plaque, so it is much easier to maintain good oral hygiene. Invisalign also allows you to view your own virtual treatment plan when you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete.
Consider Invisalign to get the beautiful straight teeth you’ve always wanted – without braces! A consultation with Dr. Wu can determine if Invisalign is right for you.
Clear Braces that Blend in with your Smile
People may not even realize you are wearing braces! Just as they sound, clear braces are like traditional braces, but they are nearly invisible. Rather than metal brackets, these brackets are made of a tooth colored ceramic, so they are difficult to see unless you are very close to the patient’s teeth.
Shaped Braces that Allow You to Express Yourself
Express yourself! WildSmiles™ Braces are brackets that come in a variety of designs and shapes. For those of you that are young, or young-at-heart, these bracket beauties turn tooth correction into a form of expression.
Braces Placed Behind Your Teeth (Incognito Braces)
Incognito™ Braces are an unique choice because patients can smile with confidence both during and after treatment. Placed on the back-side of the teeth, Incognito Orthodontic Braces are completely hidden from view. No one will know that you are wearing braces unless you tell them.
Incognito Orthodontic Braces are also 100% customized by Dr. Wu to meet the unique orthodontic prescription of every patient. Customization makes the difference and can lead to a more convenient and comfortable treatment experience.
While lingual braces are not for everybody, they are a great alternative for those who desire an esthetic orthodontic option. Dr. Wu will evaluate your teeth and bite to determine if you are a candidate for lingual braces.
Corrective Surgery to Better Align
Your Teeth and Bite
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery or jaw surgery, is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe malocclusions or jaw bone abnormalities. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a specialist in addressing issues with the mouth, teeth, jaw or facial regions. If you need surgical orthodontics, Dr. Wu will work closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure that you receive the best care possible and achieve optimal results.
For many people, orthodontic care is needed so prosthetics such as crowns, implants, bridges and dentures can be properly placed. Dr. Wu will work closely with your dentist to create a tailored treatment plan to stabilize the teeth in the arch and, at the same time, establish a space for the replacement teeth.
Implanted Devices Proven to Speed Treatment
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) are implanted devices that are removed following desired tooth movement. These mini-implants are often placed in non-visible locations and are proven to reduce orthodontic treatment time, close many open bites without surgery, and at times eliminate or decrease the need for rubber bands.
Early Correction of Developmental Problems
Don’t worry Mom – most kids won’t need braces until majority of their adult teeth come in, but there are some exceptions. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children see an Orthodontist by age 7 in order to rule out certain growth issues or bad oral habits.
What problems need to be evaluated…early??
- Primary (baby) teeth staying in too long preventing eruption of permanent teeth
- Premature loss of primary teeth causing other teeth to shift
- Upper teeth crossed over behind lower teeth (cross-bite)
- Skeletal imbalances of the face and jaws (Under-bite/Over-bite)
- Unusual spacing between teeth
- Teeth impacted in the jaw bone
Phase 1 orthodontic treatments coordinate the sizes, forms, and positions of the jaws. Successful first phase treatment greatly simplifies second phase orthodontic correction. Early treatment also helps to make room for permanent teeth to come in properly, lessening the chance of extractions in the future. Finally, Breathing Disturbance and Growth issues can be detected, evaluated and referred for treatment sooner.
Come in for a consult and Dr. Wu will tell you if your child would benefit from early braces or Orthodontic treatment.