Braces in Downtown Los Angeles
Braces Basics
When you think about braces, you inevitably picture the traditional, clunky metal braces that we all associate with awkward adolescence. These appliances are comprised of four parts—brackets, arch wires, bands, and ligature ties. However, even when opting for metal braces over other options, these appliances are smaller and lighter weight than ever before. In fact, most of what people think they know about braces is no longer true.
Picture of regular bracesBrackets used in orthodontic treatment today are a great deal lighter and smaller than ever. They are bonded to each tooth with a tooth-colored bonding adhesive. The brackets serve as guides to hold the arch wire in place and to move the teeth into proper alignment.
Arch wires are those wires you see that connect the brackets. Arch wires get changed periodically throughout your treatment, as this is how tooth movement ultimately is carried out- by using arch wires that gradually increase in size during treatment.
Bands are the metal rings that sometimes go around the molars and/or bicuspids. They provide more strength to aid in moving the front teeth. We try to use the least amount of bands as possible.
Push1Ligature ties are made of very small elastic bands that come in multiple colors or metal wire. Their purpose is to hold the arch wire in place connecting to the brackets.
Here at Alpan Orthodontics, we offer our clients in Beverly Hills & Downtown Los Angeles all the modern orthodontic options they could desire. No more clunky and awkward braces—in fact, you might not even need “braces” at all. So, what are some of these incredible treatments we offer?
Damon System
The Damon System looks like a streamlined version of traditional braces, making them more discreet. To further minimize their visibility, clear brackets can be used (Damon Clear). The big advantage they offer is how they are fitted onto the teeth. Instead of using elastics to hold arch wires in place, the Damon System is self-ligating. Traditional elastics tend to cause friction in the mouth, which can lead to pain and even prolonged treatment. The Damon System bypasses this inconvenience, making treatment faster, more comfortable, and healthier.
Damon Clear
We offer clear self-ligating braces (Damon Clear) as a treatment and it does not require elastics to hold arch wires in place. Elastics are like bungee cords, which cause friction and pressure, making treatment slower and less comfortable. Damon Clear System self-ligating braces (no elastic ties to hold the arch wire in place) are smaller, more comfortable to the lips and cheek, and use a slide mechanism that eliminates the friction. The passive self-ligating bracket whose beauty is more than skin deep. Damon Clear combines the look and comfort image-conscious patients demand with the strength and functionality discriminating clinicians need. Validated by multi-site in vivo studies and third-party university research, Damon Clear is more than meets the eye.
Damon braces are designed to be discreet, comfortable and easy to keep clean. Without the elastic ties which attract and collect plaque, Damon braces make dental hygiene easy during treatment.
Incognito
These braces are completely customized for each patient and run along the inside of the teeth instead of the outside. This means that they are completely invisible to all those around you. They are designed by Dr. Alpan for you, one tooth at a time, perfectly following the contours of your teeth to provide optimum comfort and performance. Your movements will never feel restricted with this system.
Metal Braces
The metal braces we offer—Ormco Mini Twins, Damon Mx, and Damon Q’s—are far removed from the metal braces of the past. These offerings are smaller, more comfortable, and more effective. As we believe in continuing our education, we are always learning about new offerings that provide patients with better and more comfortable solutions. This means that we will always offer you the best in the industry.
Gold Braces
These braces are perfect for bold patients who want to use their braces as an accessory to their look. The dramatic flair of a gold enhanced smile is popular right now and it is certainly a way to make treatment more enjoyable. These braces come with the added benefit that gold is incredibly durable, making them highly functional for orthodontic treatment. We offer several options for you to choose from.
Invisalign / Removable Aligners
Invisalign is the go to treatment option for those who do not want their appearance to be radically changed during treatment. The system relies on the use of a series of custom made, clear, removable aligners that slowly move your teeth into the final position. They also come with the added benefit that you can eat, drink, brush, and floss as you normally would.