How do braces work to correctly align crooked teeth?
Each patient’s orthodontic condition requires a treatment plan based on a specialized diagnosis of the case. The treatment planning process involves taking X-rays, dental impressions and photographs of the patient’s mouth.

Braces have one aim: to use gentle pressure to move the teeth into proper alignment. The two key parts of braces that work to move the teeth are the brackets and the archwires. The brackets are secured to each tooth (either by bonding or banding) to hold the archwire against the teeth. Brackets can be fabricated from metal, ceramic or plastic.

The main wires, or archwires, are specifically shaped to fit around the arch of teeth and into the brackets’ slots. The pressure created by the braces moves the teeth, and the archwire guides the direction of the movement. Once the teeth move into their correct positions, new jawbone grows and anchors the teeth into place.

Most adult patients choose clear ceramic braces because of their translucent appearance. These ceramic brackets are hard to see, and others may not even notice you are wearing braces. Yet, because they are a cermaic material, they are more fragile and you have to be more careful with the clear/ceramic braces.

Braces offered include:
Metal Braces with Colored Elastics.
Traditional metal braces are still the most popular type. Children and teenagers alike enjoy decorating their braces with the different colored elastics that we offer. The stainless steel brackets we use now are much smaller, more attractive and are more comfortable for the patient.

Invisalign®
Do you want to discreetly straighten your teeth without using wires and brackets? Try the Invisalign System, prescribed by Dr. Buttner, a Premier Provider of Invisalign in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho! Invisalign is virtually invisible, which means no one will know that you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you tell them.

How does Invisalign work?
The patient wears each set of Invisalign aligners for about two weeks. Aligners can be removed only to eat, drink, brush and floss. Teeth will move gradually each week, and the patient will visit Dr. Buttner every 4 to 8 weeks. The total treatment time averages anywhere between 8 to 30 months. If you’re interested in more information about the Invisalign System, please schedule a free consultation with Dr. Buttner today!