Misaligned teeth can cause a variety of problems ranging from difficulty chewing to self-consciousness about one’s smile. Luckily, there are numerous solutions available to those seeking a correction. One of the most popular methods of realigning teeth is through the use of braces. At Runnels Orthodontics in Destin, FL, we offer a variety of braces to patients seeking orthodontic treatment. We provide comprehensive care and expertise in selecting the best type of braces for each individual patient’s needs.
Braces are orthodontic appliances designed to improve the alignment of teeth. They are typically made of metal brackets bonded to the teeth and wires that apply gentle pressure to gradually shift them into their correct positions. Braces can correct a variety of dental issues, including crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and gaps. They are often used during adolescence, but adults can also undergo orthodontic treatment with braces.
There are a number of different types of braces offered at our Destin and Inlet Beach orthodontic offices, so each patient is sure to find the ideal orthodontic solution to suit their unique needs.
Metal braces may be a good fit for some patients, such as kids and teens, while individuals interested in adult orthodontics may prefer ceramic braces or lingual braces, which are a bit more discreet. We invite you to read on to learn about the different types of braces we provide. To find out which type of braces will best help you reach your orthodontic goals, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Runnels.
With traditional braces, the brackets are made from very strong metal and are highly durable. Traditional metal braces are often a good solution for kids and teens, who often view getting braces as a sort of rite of passage and have fewer aesthetic concerns because many of their friends also wear metal braces. Traditional metal braces are usually the most cost-effective type of braces we offer to our Destin, Panama City Beach, Fort Walton Beach, and Freeport patients.
For patients who want to straighten their smiles but aren’t keen on the appearance of traditional metal braces, ceramic braces may be a good fit. Ceramic braces come in a variety of shades, so Dr. Runnels can help patients select the shade that most closely matches their natural teeth. Dr. Runnels is also proud to feature Clarity™ ceramic brackets, which are totally translucent.
Clarity™ brackets blend with the color of a patient’s natural teeth and are stain-resistant, so patients don’t need to worry about discoloration which may affect other clear braces options. It is important to note that most ceramic braces are more brittle and less resilient than metal braces, so they may not be right for some of our more active patients. If you and Dr. Runnels decide that ceramic braces are the best option for you, Dr. Runnels may suggest that you get fitted for a sports mouth guard to help protect your braces and your teeth.
Unlike traditional metal and ceramic braces, lingual braces are affixed to the inner surfaces of the patient’s teeth, so they are the best solution for our patients who are especially concerned about the way their orthodontic treatment affects their appearance. Not every orthodontist has the specialized training necessary to properly fit patients with lingual braces, but Dr. Runnels has participated in extensive continuing education so that he is able to help our Destin and Panama City Beach patients straighten their smiles using this most discreet type of braces.
Braces can help to improve oral health by correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. This can reduce the risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Additionally, braces can help to reduce the risk of developing TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, which is a condition that results in jaw pain and discomfort.
Braces can also help to improve speech by correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. By properly aligning the teeth and jaws, braces can help to improve the clarity of speech as well as reduce any lisps or other speech impediments caused by misalignment.
Braces can also help to improve appearance by straightening crooked or crowded teeth. This can give patients a more confident smile that they may not have had before their treatment with braces. Additionally, braces can help to correct bite problems such as an overbite or underbite, which can further improve facial aesthetics.
Misaligned teeth and jaws are more susceptible to injury than properly aligned ones due to the increased amount of force placed on them during everyday activities such as chewing food or speaking clearly. By correcting these issues with braces, patients can reduce their risk of suffering from an injury related to their misalignment.
Crowded or misaligned teeth can make it harder to effectively clean between teeth and along the gumline. This can increase the risk of gum disease. By straightening your teeth, you can improve your gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal issues.
Braces are customizable to address your specific orthodontic issues. Orthodontists carefully plan the treatment to achieve the best possible outcome for your individual case.
The duration of orthodontic treatment with braces varies depending on the individual’s orthodontic needs. On average, treatment can last anywhere from 18 months to three years.
Yes, proper oral hygiene is essential when you have braces. You’ll need to brush and floss regularly, paying extra attention to cleaning around the brackets and wires. Your orthodontist will provide guidance on proper care.
Hard, sticky, and chewy foods should be avoided as they can damage the braces. Foods like popcorn, hard candies, and chewing gum should be off-limits during treatment.
Typically, you’ll need to visit the orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments and to monitor your progress.
While there may be an adjustment period, most people adapt quickly to having braces and continue with their regular activities without major disruptions.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile and would like to learn more about the types of braces available to our patients in Destin and Panama City Beach, we encourage you to contact us to schedule your personal orthodontic consultation with Dr. Runnels. During this meeting, Dr. Runnels will conduct a thorough examination and discuss your specific goals and needs to determine which type of braces will be best for your unique situation. For the ultimate smile transformation, you may also consider completing your orthodontic treatment with teeth whitening, laser gum sculpting, or other cosmetic dentistry treatments offered by Dr. Runnels. Contact us by calling (850) 269-0333 or filling out our online form to schedule a consultation with us.
Serving patients in Destin 32541, Fort Walton Beach 32547, Freeport 32439, Rose Mary Beach 32461, Water Sound 32416, Niceville 32578, Panama City Beach 32413, Santa Rosa Beach 32459, Miramar Beach 32550, and Panama City 32459.