Dental Braces in Tijuana

Having a beautiful and healthy smile requires more than daily care and hygiene. Orthodontic treatments with the use of brackets allow the alignment of the teeth, which reduces the chances of suffering from cavities because less bacterial plaque accumulates on straight teeth.

Braces or orthodontic treatment use a type of orthopedic device that is fixed on the Teeth´s surface. They work by applying controlled pressure through the archwire, which causes the teeth to move according to the orthodontist’s wishes to gradually but steadily bring them into the desired position.

When the orthodontist plans the movement of the teeth, he does it in a three dimensional way, so that they move horizontally, vertically or transversely, that is, in first, second and third order movements.

Through brackets, the position of the teeth is corrected to treat skeletal anomalies based on facial aesthetics, periodontal health and chewing function.

Before and After

FAQs

How to know if I need braces?

Firstly, it’s important to understand that only an orthodontist or dentist can diagnose whether you need braces or not. However, there are certain symptoms that can indicate that you may need orthodontic treatment.

Protruding lower teeth: The most common case requiring orthodontic treatment is when the lower teeth stick out in relation to the upper teeth. On average, the canines are more than 3 mm forward.
Crossbite: This case is often confused with the previous one, however, it is an abnormal bite when the lower teeth are placed behind the upper teeth.
Open bite: As the name suggests, an open bite occurs when a series of teeth fails to close completely with the opposing teeth. Due to a malocclusion, there is a degree of opening either in the upper or lower teeth.
Displaced midline: This oral anomaly occurs when the vertical line that divides the upper teeth in half is not aligned with the same line in the lower teeth.
Spacing: This occurs when the line of teeth, whether upper or lower, has very large gaps. This can occur due to the lack of a dental piece or a tooth that did not grow properly.

Dental crowding: On the other hand, dental crowding occurs when the teeth are too large for the maxillary spaces.

Braces provide excellent long-term value:

Better hygiene. Crooked teeth cause crowding in the mouth, which limits the ability to floss or brush between tight spaces. Aligned teeth allow the brush and floss to work properly.
Less risk of periodontitis. Having crowded teeth can make you more prone to problems like gingivitis or periodontitis. With straight teeth and a good hygiene routine, the probability of suffering from these diseases decreases considerably.
Improve your self-esteem. Orthodontic treatment allows aesthetic harmony not only of the smile, but of the entire face; The smile is usually a focal point of the face, so having aligned teeth, in balance with your features, can contribute positively to the perception you have of yourself on a physical and emotional level.
They can fix bite problems (malocclusion). The “bite” is the dental term used to explain how the upper or lower teeth fit together; when there is an irregularity due to misaligned or missing teeth, it often affects the ability to chew food and causes problems such as bruxism. Braces help correct all these complications.

Types of orthodontic appliances in Tijuana

Metal braces

Metal braces are the traditional and most popular braces. They are made of steel and titanium so they are an economical alternative. They require a ligature wire or bands to fix the arch on each bracket. It is a very resistant type of orthodontics, which applies constant pressure force and is the most used to treat children and young people.

Ceramic braces

They are an alternative that provides a good aesthetic appearance, are durable and effective. Their price is higher than that of metal brackets, but they provide a better image, especially in adults.

Sapphire brackets

Also known as aesthetic brackets, they provide a good aesthetic appearance since they are transparent, discreet and almost invisible. They are durable, resistant and functional. Their price is higher than the other alternatives, but the image they provide is better.

Invisible treatments

They are transparent and removable aligners, which are made to measure each patient. They are removed only to eat, drink, brush and floss teeth. They must remain in the mouth for an average of 22 hours and be replaced every 10 days in order to obtain the desired results.

Lingual braces

Intralingual braces or brackets are placed on the inside of the teeth. It is a fixed orthodontic technique characterized by being hidden, as well as being as effective as the previous ones.

Does the placement of braces hurt?

The first time you have braces installed, it is normal to experience mild to moderate pain; this also occurs after adjustment controls. However, these discomforts are temporary.

If I get braces, do I have to change my diet?

It is recommended to avoid hard or sticky foods, such as gum, popsicles, peanuts, and fried foods, as they can cause cleaning to be a hassle or even pop off a piece of your orthodontic treatment.

What is the best age to wear braces?

Commonly, braces are applied when the permanent teeth come out, that is, around 12 years of age and older.

What is the age limit for braces?

Actually, there is no age limit to start using braces. It is possible to modify the position of the teeth in people aged 30, 40, and 50, as long as it is indicated by your dentist and there are no other oral problems that could prevent or complicate the treatment.

How long will you be with braces?

The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the initial problems of the patient. In case of mild malocclusions, the treatment usually lasts 12 months, but in severe cases it can last up to 36 months (3 years).

The most important thing is the assessment of the orthodontist and attending the scheduled visits in order to ensure the results.