6 Month Smile

Six Month Smiles is a type of bracket and wire orthodontic correction for straightening the front upper and lower teeth in approximately six months; although treatment times vary depending on individual misalignment problems.

Using clear brackets and tooth-colored nickel-titanium wires, Six Month Smiles braces can treat a variety of orthodontic problems that affect the cosmetic appearance of the teeth. The combination of low-movement forces and short overall treatment time increases patient comfort, safety and oral hygiene, making it ideal for patients who want the cosmetic straightening benefits of braces but who do not need more complex corrections to their bite or occlusion.

Candidates

Six Month Smiles short term orthodontic treatment is suitable for a variety of misalignment problems, including extrusions, rotations, intrusions and tipping. It also is appropriate for the problems that cause common cosmetic dental issues in the front teeth, including:

•    Diastemas and spacing
•    Overbites and open bites
•    Crowding and overlapping teeth
•    Canted midlines and asymmetry
•    Reverse smile lines

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Procedure: What’s Involved?

During your consultation, your orthodontist will perform a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums and oral health to determine if you are a candidate for Six Month Smiles. This will involve taking X-rays, intraoral and facial photographs, and impressions of your teeth for use in fabricating models that demonstrate how they fit together.

If your dentist determines that you are a candidate, these models will be used by the laboratory to calculate the precision tooth movement necessary to achieve the desired straightening effects on your front teeth, as well as where the clear brackets and tooth-colored wires should be placed.

At your next appointment, you will be fitted with the clear brackets and tooth-colored arch wires. Your dentist will fuse the brackets to your teeth by applying bonding adhesive to the enamel surface of your front teeth, as well as to the brackets. The brackets come precisely positioned inside a custom-fabricated tray that enables your dentist to place them exactly where they need to be on your teeth.

After applying the adhesive bonding agent to your teeth and the brackets, your dentist will insert a custom tray onto your teeth and hold it in place to ensure proper seating of the brackets. Once set, the tray can be removed. The adhesive is then hardened using a high-intensity light to ensure that the brackets are secure, after which your dentist will attach the tooth-colored arch wires and adjust them to ensure proper tooth movement.