InBrace
Sherman Oaks, CA
As specialists in orthodontics, Dougherty Orthodontics offers a wide variety of treatments designed to straighten teeth, fix malocclusions (misaligned bites), and improve your overall oral health. We also strive to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques to ensure our patients receive the best possible care. If you or a loved one needs orthodontic treatment, we may recommend a relatively-new alternative to traditional braces known as InBrace!
What Is InBrace?
InBrace is a brand name appliance that involves a lingual brace system. Much like traditional braces, the lingual system involves a series of brackets linked together by a thin metal wire. However, instead of being placed on the front of your teeth, lingual braces are placed on the back surfaces, effectively hiding the appliance.
The InBrace process begins with an impression, which we send to our laboratory. There, our technicians use the impression to fabricate custom-fit brackets. Once we receive your brackets, we bond them to the back of your teeth using special dental cement.
The InBrace appliance, just like traditional braces, applies continuous pressure on the teeth, slowly moving them to the proper position. The length of treatment depends on the severity of your orthodontic issues but can take anywhere from 18-36 months.
Who Qualifies For InBrace?
The best way to find out if you or your child qualifies for InBrace is a consultation appointment. During your consultation, Harry L. Dougherty DDS, MS will perform a comprehensive examination to determine if InBrace is right for you. This may include a physical and visual assessment, as well as x-rays and other diagnostic tools.
InBrace can be used to treat several issues, including:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Malocclusions: underbites, minor overbites, crossbites, openbites
InBrace may not be appropriate for patients with deep overbites. A deep vertical overbite can place a significant amount of pressure on the brackets, especially if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth. This can damage the brackets or knock them off. Even still, most teenagers and adults should qualify for treatment.
Advantages Of InBrace
There are several advantages to the InBrace system. Many of our patients, especially those concerned with cosmetics, choose InBrace because the appliance is not visible and highly discreet. Lingual braces are particularly useful for patients that want clear aligner trays but have complex issues that require more advanced treatment methods.
Beyond the cosmetic advantage, InBrace gives us greater control over your treatment. Your appliance allows us to move your teeth with more precision than other cosmetic alternatives. Lingual braces are also fixed in place, meaning patient compliance is not an issue. Aligner trays are removable, and the success of your treatment is dictated by your commitment to wearing the trays.
Studies have also shown that InBrace can result in a shorter treatment period. Because the system is precise, lingual braces often require less time than traditional braces. Aligner trays may also take longer if they are not worn close to full-time.
Schedule A Consultation Today
Find out if InBrace is right for you or a family member! Call (818) 986-6223 to schedule a consultation appointment today!