At Bowe Orthodontics, we offer a variety of treatment options to help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. From traditional braces to modern aligners, our expert team is here to guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey.
Fixed Braces: A Reliable & Effective Choice
Fixed braces are one of the most widely used orthodontic treatments. They are highly effective, customizable, and available in both metal and ceramic options.
How Braces Work
Fixed braces are securely bonded to the teeth using a special dental adhesive, allowing them to stay in place while gradually guiding the teeth into their correct positions. Braces work in all three dimensions to ensure precise alignment. Your orthodontist will make adjustments periodically, ensuring steady progress toward your perfect smile.
Types of Fixed Braces
Metal Braces: The traditional choice, made from durable stainless steel. These braces are highly effective, especially for complex cases.
Ceramic Braces: A more discreet option, using clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural teeth. They offer the same benefits as metal braces with a less noticeable appearance.
Caring for Fixed Braces
Since the brackets are only lightly bonded to your teeth, it’s important to avoid hard or sticky foods that can dislodge them. Maintain a good oral hygiene routine, brushing and flossing carefully to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
Adjusting to Fixed Braces
Mild discomfort is common in the first few days as your mouth adjusts. Over-the-counter pain relief such as Paracetamol or Nurofen (if not contraindicated) can help. This discomfort usually subsides within a week.
Removable Braces: A Flexible Orthodontic Option
Removable braces are designed to be taken out by the patient when necessary, offering a more convenient treatment option. These braces are often used for minor corrections or as part of a larger orthodontic plan.
How Removable Braces Work
Made from acrylic and light stainless steel wires, removable braces gently guide teeth into better alignment over time. They are often used for early intervention in children or as a preparatory step for fixed braces.
Wearing Removable Braces
For best results, removable braces should be worn for 22 hours per day and should only be removed for:
Eating and drinking (to prevent damage)
Brushing and flossing (for proper oral hygiene)
Sports or physical activities (to avoid injury or breakage)
Removable braces can also be customized with different colors for a fun, personalized touch—ideal for younger patients!
Care & Maintenance
Clean daily using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water
Avoid hot water, which can warp the acrylic
Follow Dr. Bowe’s care instructions for the best results
Functional Appliances: Guiding Jaw Growth
Functional appliances are used to influence jaw development and alignment, making them most effective for children aged 10-12 years while the bones are still growing.
Common Functional Appliances
Twin Block: Encourages forward growth of the lower jaw, correcting excessive overjet (upper teeth too far forward).
Expanders: Widen the upper jaw to create space for crowded teeth or correct crossbites.
Headgear: Guides jaw growth by applying gentle pressure, improving overall alignment.
Early intervention with functional appliances can prevent more complex treatments later on and help ensure optimal jaw development.
Surgical Orthodontics: Correcting Severe Jaw Misalignments
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is used in cases where jaw discrepancies or severe bite issues cannot be corrected with braces alone.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for:
Adults with misaligned jaws requiring both braces and jaw surgery
Teenagers (16+ for females, 18+ for males) with severe jaw discrepancies
Patients with functional issues, such as difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing
Dr. Bowe works closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons to ensure the best possible outcome for patients requiring surgical intervention.
Retainers: Keeping Your Smile Straight
Retainers are essential after orthodontic treatment to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position.
Types of Retainers
Fixed Retainers: A wire permanently bonded behind the front teeth for long-term stability.
Removable Retainers: Clear or acrylic-based retainers worn at night.
Retainers must be worn indefinitely to maintain your beautifully aligned smile.
Aligner Braces (Invisalign): A Discreet Alternative
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, offer a modern and nearly invisible solution for straightening teeth.
How Aligners Work
Aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually move them in small, controlled increments. Each set is worn for 1-2 weeks before being replaced with the next set, ensuring a smooth transition to your ideal smile.
To improve effectiveness, small tooth-colored attachments may be applied to help guide specific tooth movements.
Wearing Aligners
For optimal results, aligners should be worn 22 hours per day and only removed for:
Eating and drinking
Brushing and flossing
Is Invisalign Right for You?
Aligners are highly effective but may not be suitable for all cases. Dr. Bowe will assess your teeth and recommend the best treatment for your needs.
Find the Right Orthodontic Treatment for You
Every patient has unique orthodontic needs, and at Bowe Orthodontics, we provide customized solutions to ensure the best possible results. Whether you’re considering fixed braces, removable braces, functional appliances, or Invisalign, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Book your consultation today to start your journey to a confident, beautiful smile!
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