Orthodontics

Metal Braces

Most people who want their teeth straightened choose metal braces. These are made using high-grade stainless steel. The ones applied today are less noticeable, easier to tolerate and better looking than those in years past. 

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are less noticeable than the modern metal braces since they are translucent in color, being made of clear material. Adults seem to like these best for cosmetic reasons. There is a drawback though in that the ceramic brackets are more fragile than the metal ones and the elastic ties do tend to become discolored between visits to the orthodontist. 

The Invisalign® System

The Invisalign® System involves having a series of clear aligners made to fit over the patient’s teeth that gradually get adjusted to move the teeth into perfect alignment. A computer program generating a simulation determines the fit. Adult patients that have particular orthodontic bite issues can benefit from this system. Ask our friendly staff if invisalign is right for you.

The Invisalign® Teen System

Invisalign® Teen has now been introduced to help teenagers avoid wearing metal braces which can make them look unattractive on their Facebook profile, not to mention in their yearbook photo. This straightening system involves having clear aligners, which are virtually invisible, fit over your teeth so no one needs to know you are having your teeth straightened. Because they are removable you can eat whatever you want. You can also brush and floss your teeth as normal, which helps keep your gums and teeth healthy. They are more comfortable to wear since there are no wires or brackets to irritate the inside of your mouth. 

The Damon® Bracket System

Dr. Dwight Damon invented Damon® Braces which utilize brackets with “self-ligation” technology, similar to a sliding door, which enables the wire to move back and forth between the brackets. With these braces you do not need any elastic or stainless steel ties so there is less friction, making these much more comfortable to wear. With this system the treatment time can be reduced along with the number of visits to our practice in Porterville for adjustments.

Damon® Clear™

Damon® Clear™ provides the patient with a completely clear orthodontic appliance that comes with the low-friction comfort and advantages of self-ligation technology. With this system the patient can enjoy the aesthetically pleasing appearance everyone asks for. Those who have selected this orthodontic method have been satisfied beyond their expectations in both functionality and looks. Damon Clear was developed with patient comfort as the top priority. The brackets are customized for optimum reliability and have proven to be sturdy and not at all prone to discoloration. 

Lingual Braces

Just because you have braces on your teeth doesn’t mean you must look like you have a mouth full of metal. Lingual braces are customized to attach to the backside of your teeth, where your tongue touches your teeth. Each bracket must be custom-made and carefully fit for each patient and includes a treatment plan that is equally customized to meet the needs of that particular patient.

Aligners

Aligners have the look and feel of clear retainers, but built into them is a tooth correction so they can gradually move the teeth into alignment. What Dr. Herrera will do is make you a number of aligners, each one designated to be worn for a certain amount of time before moving on to the next one in the series. Each aligner will initially feel tight when first put on, but as you wear them they become more comfortable because your teeth are moving, correcting your alignment. This is a great solution for patients with fairly straight teeth that only needing a minor correction.   

Call our practice in Porterville to schedule an initial consultation to determine which orthodontic treatment will best meet your needs.