Bee Cave Self-Ligating Orthodontics
Achieve your goal for straighter teeth and a broader, healthier smile with advanced self-ligating braces featuring low-profile clear or stainless-steel options that are remarkably comfortable. You can get these innovative braces from your orthodontist in Bee Cave, Dr. Alberto Tostado at Lake Travis Orthodontics.
What Are Self-Ligating Braces?
Self-ligating braces are an advanced orthodontic system that uses specialized brackets. Instead of elastics or ties attaching the archwire to the brackets, these innovative brackets have built-in clips that keep the wire in place and allow it to move freely. Brackets are available in stainless steel or clear ceramic.
What Types of Cases Do Self-Ligating Braces Treat?
Self-ligating braces effectively treat all types of orthodontic concerns in Bee Cave, including:
- Crossbite – Upper teeth sit behind lower teeth when you bite down.
- Crowded teeth – Teeth are too close, overlap, or are uneven due to lack of space.
- Spacing – Missing teeth, small teeth, or a large jaw can cause gaps between teeth.
- Open bite – Upper and lower front teeth do not overlap when back teeth are together, or upper and lower back teeth do not meet when front teeth are together.
- Overbite – Upper front teeth excessively overlap the bottom front teeth.
- Underbite – Lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth.
What Are the Advantages of Self-Ligating Braces?
Self-ligating braces offer superior comfort, fewer checkup appointments, and efficient treatment time compared to traditional braces.
- Better aesthetics – Small metal or ceramic brackets are less bulky and noticeable than traditional metal braces.
- More comfortable – An archwire that slides in the brackets produces less friction instead of being held by elastics. Tooth movement is gentler and much more comfortable.
- Fewer checkups – Dr. Tostado will not need to adjust elastics on the braces, so you’ll have checkup visits every eight to twelve weeks instead of every six to ten weeks, as with traditional braces.
- Efficient tooth movement – Frictionless tooth movement is more efficient than treatment with the interference of elastics.
- Shorter treatment time – The precision of self-ligating braces can shorten treatment time by up to six months compared with traditional braces.
- Better oral hygiene – It is easier to floss, brush your teeth, and clean around the brackets without elastics.
- Broader smile – Self-ligating braces help widen your arches for a fuller, more appealing smile.
How Long Is Treatment with Self-Ligating Braces?
The average treatment time is approximately 18 months. Each patient’s case is unique, so Dr. Tostado will determine your treatment plan based on several factors, including:
- Your oral health
- The complexity of your case
- Your compliance with your treatment plan
What Can I Eat While Wearing Self-Ligating Braces?
You can enjoy most foods while wearing self-ligating braces. However, avoid crunchy, hard, or sticky foods because they could damage the brackets. Limiting the frequency of meals can help prevent tooth decay. Eat well-balanced, nutritious meals daily to promote healthy teeth and gums.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth and Braces
- Develop an oral hygiene routine that will help your treatment go smoothly.
- Rinse your mouth with water after meals to loosen food particles that may get stuck around your braces.
- If food is allowed to remain around the brackets, it will cause decalcification of your teeth, leaving you with white or brown spots when the brackets are removed. It’s important to brush your teeth every time you eat. Carry a toothbrush with you so that you can do this.
- Floss daily to remove debris and minimize plaque buildup. Floss threaders will enable you to thread the floss under the archwire.
Ready to Transform Your Smile? Take the First Step Today!
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Tostado at Lake Travis Orthodontics in Bee Cave to discover if self-ligating braces are right for you. Our team is ready to help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
