Crooked, gapped, or crowded teeth can negatively affect your dental function and self-confidence. Some types of misalignment can even make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene. Orthodontic treatment is designed to help you achieve a straighter, more symmetrical smile with a specially designed treatment plan specific to your needs. Dr. Rafael Mercado understands that each patient has unique concerns, lifestyle factors, and expectations for treatment. To better serve his patients, Dr. Mercado offers several orthodontic treatment options, including Invisalign®, ClearCorrect®, and traditional braces at his Castle Hills, TX, practice.
Why Pursue a Straighter Smile?
Misaligned teeth not only affect your self-esteem; they can also cause oral health issues. Orthodontic conditions can lead to:
- Difficulty chewing
- Increased risk of cavities and gum disease
- Excessive wear and permanent damage to teeth
- Poor nutrition
- Speech impediments, such as lisping
- Joint disorders and jaw pain
Virtually any adult or pediatric patient who wants to achieve a straighter, healthier smile is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment.
Your Orthodontic Consultation
During your initial consultation, we will take photos of your smile to demonstrate how orthodontic treatment could improve your appearance. Since we offer several options, Dr. Mercado will consider your concerns, treatment goals, and budget to help decide which treatment is right for you.
Misalignment can negatively affect your dental function and self-confidence, and even make it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene.
Our team can go over available financing options with you during this visit, such as CareCredit® or LendingClub®. If you have any existing health concerns, such as gum disease or cavities, the doctor will also discuss addressing these issues prior to beginning your orthodontic treatment.
Choosing an Orthodontic Treatment
Each treatment option offers unique benefits and considerations.
Invisalign
Invisalign may be the ideal solution for orthodontic patients who do not want to compromise the appearance and comfort of their smiles. Invisalign aligners must be worn at least 22 hours per day but are completely removable, meaning you can continue to enjoy your favorite sticky or crunchy foods. Patients who participate in sports or play instruments also tend to prefer Invisalign over metal braces.
ClearCorrect
Similar to Invisalign, ClearCorrect treatment consists of a customized clear aligner system. While some Invisalign patients may require attachments on their teeth, ClearCorrect effectively realigns your smile without these pieces. This removable option has comparable, attractive benefits, such as the ability to floss and brush more easily. Many people will never even realize you are wearing ClearCorrect trays.
Metal Braces
Many patients choose traditional metal braces because of their versatility and effectiveness in treating a variety of cases, from mild to complex. Although Invisalign is a popular option, patients who do not want to deal with removing or keeping track of their aligners may prefer traditional braces. Depending on the severity of your case, such as large gaps between the teeth, you may also be a better candidate for metal braces than clear aligners.
Clear Braces
If you are concerned about the aesthetics of metal braces but do not want or qualify for clear aligners, you may be a good candidate for clear brackets. Dr. Mercado can use clear brackets to reduce the visibility of your orthodontic treatment while ensuring you enjoy predictable, lasting results.
Schedule a Consultation
A straighter smile can help you improve your oral health and quality of life for years to come. With many treatment options available, you can choose which method matches your lifestyle alongside Dr. Mercado. Start your smile transformation today by using our online contact form or calling us directly at 210-732-4570.