Understanding Orthodontic Terminology: A Guide for Patients

Navigating your orthodontic journey can feel overwhelming, especially with all the unfamiliar terms you might encounter. At All Star Orthodontics, we believe that understanding orthodontic terminology can make your experience smoother and help you communicate more effectively with our team. Here’s a handy guide to some common terms you may hear during your treatment with our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Cline and Dr. Herrera.

Common Orthodontic Terms

Braces: Traditional braces are a common orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, consisting of brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by a flexible archwire. At All Star Orthodontics, we offer options for metal, ceramic, clear, and gold braces, allowing you to choose a style that fits your personal preference. The archwire applies gentle pressure to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Over time, adjustments will be made to the wire, and additional components like bands or springs may be added to enhance your treatment. Braces can effectively address a range of dental problems, including overcrowding, gaps, and misalignment.

Clear Aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, are nearly invisible plastic shells that snap over your teeth. As you wear them, they apply gentle pressure to gradually reposition your teeth. If you have mild to moderate orthodontic problems, aligner treatments may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Each set of Invisalign trays is custom-formed to fit your mouth and sequentially apply the pressure required to move the teeth. Typically, each aligner is worn for about one week at a time, for at least 22 hours a day, and moves teeth a fraction of a millimeter at a time. Aligners must be removed when you eat or drink and when brushing and flossing. The number of aligners and treatment time needed to correct misaligned teeth varies based on individual orthodontic issues.

Lingual Braces: Lingual braces, such as InBrace, are a discreet option that allows you to straighten your teeth without the visibility of traditional braces. These braces are placed on the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. InBrace uses a unique system that customizes the treatment process, allowing for efficient tooth movement while maintaining comfort and aesthetics.

Retention: After your braces or aligners come off, you'll need to wear your retainer every night to maintain your new smile. This is crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Consistent retainer wear ensures that your hard work during treatment pays off.

Malocclusion: This term refers to misalignment of the teeth or the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. Types of malocclusion include overbites, underbites, and crossbites.

Archwire: The archwire is the metal wire that connects all the brackets on your braces. It exerts pressure on your teeth, helping them move into the correct position.

Brackets: Brackets are the small squares bonded to each tooth that hold the archwire in place.

Elastics (Rubber Bands): Elastics are used in conjunction with braces to apply additional force to your teeth and jaw, assisting in alignment and bite correction.

Board-Certified Orthodontist: At All Star Orthodontics, both Dr. Cline and Dr. Herrera are board-certified orthodontists. This means they have completed extensive training and passed rigorous exams to ensure they provide the highest level of care in orthodontics. Their expertise allows them to create effective treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.

Treatment Plan: Every treatment plan at All Star Orthodontics is customized specifically to each patient’s needs. Dr. Cline and Dr. Herrera take the time to assess your individual case, considering factors such as your age, dental health, and personal goals to create a comprehensive plan that outlines the steps you’ll take throughout your orthodontic journey.

Why Understanding These Terms Matters

Understanding these terms can empower you throughout your orthodontic treatment at All Star Orthodontics. If you ever encounter a term you’re unsure about, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Cline, Dr. Herrera, or our friendly team for clarification. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

If you’re ready to start your orthodontic journey or have more questions, feel free to schedule a free consultation or follow us on social media for more tips and insights!