Types of orthodontic treatment
Dr. Burckhard offers traditional metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners (Invisalign® or 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners) as treatment options. He will be sure to discuss which of these options are available to you after determining if you are ready to begin orthodontic treatment. For traditional metal or clear braces, Dr. Burckhard uses high-quality braces and wires manufactured by 3M™.
Clear aligner treatment with Invisalign® or 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners
Dr. Burckhard also does treatment with clear aligners such as Invisalign® or 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners. This type of treatment uses sequential clear orthodontic aligners to move your teeth. Clear aligner treatment can be utilized for patients of all ages. The aligners are manufactured specifically for your mouth, and they are clear and virtually invisible. The great thing about these aligners is that they can be removed when you eat and when you brush your teeth. They should also be removed when you have any food or drink in your mouth besides water; otherwise, the aligners should be worn full-time or around 22 hours per day (even during sleep). Each aligner is worn for 10-14 days before proceeding to the next aligner. The number of aligners varies for each person depending on your needs. Clear aligner treatment is a great service but is not for everyone, and Dr. Burckhard will help to determine if it is a good treatment option for you.
We also have a digital scanner that allows us to create 3D digital models of your teeth and eliminates the need for impressions during your clear aligner records.
For more information specifically on Invisalign®, visit Invisalign.com
Invisalign, among others, is a registered trademark of Align Technology, Inc.
Children and Adolescent treatment
The most common form of orthodontic treatment is treatment of children or adolescents. After your initial exam, Dr. Burckhard will help you to determine when orthodontic treatment will be best for your child. Traditional braces, clear braces, or clear aligner treatment (Invisalign® or 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners) can be treatment options.
Adult treatment
Adult orthodontic treatment has become much more common, and it is never too late to consider orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment for adults can be done to help with aesthetics and tooth alignment, create a more comfortable bite, lessen the chance of tooth decay, minimize tooth wear, or get teeth properly located for restorative work with your dentist. Traditional metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligner treatment (Invisalign® or 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners) can be options for treatment, and Dr. Burckhard will help you to determine the best option for you.
Some reasons to consider orthodontic treatment
- Crowding or spacing
- Missing or extra teeth
- Uncomfortable bite
- To properly align teeth for other dental restorative needs with another dental professional
- Overbite or underbite
- Finger sucking habits
- Improper fit of the jaws
- Teeth have shifted
- Want to change the appearance of your smile
- Desire to improve your oral health
Types of appliances
There are many different types of orthodontic appliances that can be used to aid treatment with braces. These appliances can be fixed/glued in place or removable. If you need an appliance in addition to braces, Dr. Burckhard will help you to understand your options, and he will work with you to determine which appliance is best for you.
