If you think you've missed the boat, don't worry. Modern orthodontics allows you to correct your bite at any age, even if you are over 18. One of the brace systems that help create an ideal smile, H4, was developed by the American company OrthoClassic.
Here is a self-ligating design that is suitable for both teenagers and adults. There are no ligatures, which means you won’t have to visit the orthodontist often. Using clip-locks, they are attached directly to the teeth, and a metal arc is threaded through them, with which you can adjust the tension.
H4 are proven systems that will be an excellent solution for various malocclusions.
Features of H4 braces
OrthoClassic constructions are self-ligating. Instead of ligatures, special hooks are used here, with the help of which the arch is fixed to the braces. The system features a Treadlok pad and double-leaf base for maximum durability.
H4 consists of an arch and the plates themselves, which are installed on the teeth. The first is made of elastic material: it is stretched and secured to braces. Then it begins to shrink, returning to its original shape, and, as a result, moving the teeth. The locks with which it is secured can be positioned at any angle. This way you can change the position of your teeth for completely different problems.
Among the main features of H4 braces are:
- miniature plates, making oral care much easier than with traditional braces;
- rounded shape of the elements: they do not scratch the gums and tongue and do not cause inconvenience;
- low profile (the arch is attached closer to the gum): “foreign” elements become less noticeable during a conversation or when smiling;
- use of metal: this reduces the cost of the system and makes it stronger.
H4 is a democratic solution for those who want to correct their bite as quickly as possible, without frequent visits to the orthodontist. These are reliable and high-quality designs that are used for both teenagers and adults.
Description and equipment
H4 braces are ligature-free devices that have the structural ability to self-regulate. Traditional products have ligatures - special rubber bands that block the structural arch over each tooth and force the dental units to overcome the force of resistance during straightening.
Non-ligature systems do not block the arch, but only fix it. Due to this, the teeth experience less friction and resistance and are aligned in a more gentle and physiological way.
The material of the H4 system is metal. On the one hand, this is a less aesthetically pleasing appearance than ceramics, but on the other hand, this model is more compact and minimally changes the patient’s profile during the period of wearing the structure.
The H4 model is made of sleek metal and has a low profile. In addition, the design can be variable - the fixation hooks can be located on 3, 4 or 5 hooks.
The design has a reinforced double-leaf curve base and smoothed contours. The braces are installed on a Treadlok pad that follows the tread pattern.
What are buccal tubes and what functions are assigned to them?
Come here to learn more about the purpose for which a multi-loop arch is installed on braces in orthodontics.
At this address https://orto-info.ru/sistemyi-vyiravnivaniya-zubov/breketyi/po-tipu-materiala/metallicheskie/damon-3-upravlenie-kachestvom.html we offer a detailed description of Damon 3 braces.
Advantages of self-ligating braces
The first systems for correcting the position of teeth had ligatures. These are special elastic loops that secure the plates to the arches. They showed effectiveness, but were not aesthetically pleasing or comfortable enough. In addition, the patient was forced to constantly come to the doctor so that he could “adjust” the design.
Unligated systems do not have such loops. Instead, they use clips, with the help of which the arch is fixed to the braces. They are easy to open (in a medical office setting) to change the tension level. In addition, the teeth do not encounter strong resistance, and as a result, their position becomes more natural and physiological.
Let us summarize the advantages of self-ligating structures:
- higher speed of bite correction;
- no need to visit the orthodontist every 30 days (the frequency of visits depends on the treatment program, but, as a rule, you need to come to the clinic no more than once every two months);
- ease of care (caring for braces without ligatures is only a little more difficult than caring for teeth without any fixed structures);
- comfort when wearing (the patient quickly gets used to it, speech and appearance do not change, and you can continue your active social life and work).
Self-ligating systems are convenient, save time, and shorten the period of bite correction.
Expert advice
- Do not delay starting treatment. The younger the patient, the faster the correction process occurs.
- Do not stop the course of therapy you have started, even if you are satisfied with the results achieved. Only a doctor can determine exactly how long it takes to complete the process.
- Follow your dentist's dietary and hygiene recommendations.
The dental network offers services for correcting occlusion defects with H4 metal non-ligature braces. We provide payment in installments for orthodontic treatment and arrange medical treatment. documents for personal income tax deduction.
Our specialists are highly qualified and improve their professional level in leading dental clinics in Russia and Europe.
The clinic's branches are located in Moscow within walking distance from the metro:
- Art. Alekseevskaya (VDNKh district, etc. Mira), address: st. 3rd Mytishchiskaya house 3, building 2;
- Art. Shelepikha, address: Shelepikhinskaya embankment, address: building 34, building 1.
A beautiful smile without discomfort is real. Come to our clinic and see for yourself!
Materials and design features H4
American braces are made of a special alloy. The arc made from it is quite elastic and provides the necessary tension. Plates are also smooth metal elements that are fixed to the teeth using a special glue (composite). Thanks to the material that manufacturers use and the special design, it is possible to change the position of the tooth in two dimensions, getting rid of crowding and other pathologies at the same time.
The system consists of two parts - braces and an arch that connects the elements and provides pressure.
The design, which is installed on the teeth, includes three “parts”:
- base. This is a small plate fixed to the enamel using special glue. It releases fluoride and preserves hard tissues, eliminating their demineralization;
- wings. One of the elements for securing the arc. Up to 4 can be installed on one tooth;
- grooves A metal “hoop” is inserted into them.
After installing braces, minimal but constant pressure is applied to teeth that are out of alignment. As a result, they gradually fall into place - just as the orthodontist planned. At the same time, there is no need to constantly adjust the system, or install a new one if you have several pathologies at the same time. With its help you can:
- change the angle of inclination;
- make the tooth lower, partially removing it into the cavity of the jawbone;
- pull it out, increasing the height;
- expand.
The design has an individual effect on each tooth, leaving unchanged those that are positioned correctly and do not require correction.
Question answer
- Are there any contraindications for wearing braces?
This is an additional load on the dental system. For certain conditions and chronic diseases, they can only worsen the situation. The list of contraindications includes: oncology, tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, anomalies in the development of the skeletal system, neuropsychiatric diagnoses.
- Is it possible to get braces at 40-50 years old?
Braces can be installed at any age, but it will take more time to achieve a positive result. The reason is slow metabolic processes and a stop in the growth of bone tissue. Often older patients have to undergo surgery. The tooth may not have enough space in the jaw arch for proper fixation. To free it, the adjacent tooth is removed.
- Does braces damage enamel?
The braces are attached with glue. It does not have a negative effect on the enamel, and even protects it. However, deposits in the form of white spots gradually accumulate around. They cause tooth decay. To avoid this problem, it is only important to visit a doctor in a timely manner and undergo professional hygienic cleaning.
- Is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth before installing braces?
There is a popular opinion that before installing braces, “figure eights” must be eliminated. In fact, this statement is not entirely correct. Wisdom teeth are not always removed, but only when absolutely necessary. As a preventive measure, removing them is not only wrong, but also dangerous.
Preparing for installation
The orthodontist cannot immediately install braces. Before this you need:
- cure all teeth that require it: any caries, inflammation of the gums can lead to big problems while you wear a metal structure;
- carry out professional cleaning that will remove tartar and plaque;
- come for a preliminary examination to the orthodontist: he will assess the condition and prescribe additional examinations;
- take a panoramic photo in the X-ray room: it will show hidden areas, help develop a treatment program, as well as impressions;
- carry out sanitation of the oral cavity immediately before installing the system.
The first two stages can be completed in any clinic where you are used to being treated. But it's better to do everything in one place.
Fixation of H4 braces
After the specialist prepares a bite correction program, he will begin installation. Its main stages:
- treating teeth with a product that contains orthophosphoric acid: it will help secure the base more firmly to the enamel;
- applying adhesive - a special glue that will allow you to secure the plates;
- fixation of braces - they are placed on each tooth, including healthy ones;
- installation of the arch: the doctor threads it into the grooves and secures it with clips.
The procedure does not take much time: it takes 30–60 minutes per jaw, including adjusting the tension level. There is no need to thoroughly prepare for it - you will not experience much discomfort. Subsequently, you will have to get used to the design, but this will take several days.
Treatment process with H4 braces
The duration of therapy depends on the severity of the pathology and its type, as well as on the age of the patient. The older a person is, the longer it takes for teeth to straighten. As a rule, you need to wear the system for at least one to two years.
While wearing, you should visit your orthodontist regularly. But self-ligating systems allow you to do this relatively rarely - once every month or two. No one can say exactly how many times you will have to go to the doctor and how long you will need to wear the device. The treatment program may change during the process - this is normal.
Flaws
Despite their compact size, many customers are confused by the appearance of metal devices. Due to the lack of aesthetics, such designs are avoided - after all, they will have to be worn for a long time, about 2 years or even more.
Although ligature-free constructions cause such problems to a lesser extent, the patient’s tooth enamel may still be damaged after wear.
In addition, various complications may arise during the correction process - any brace system is not without this feature.
Why do you need to come to the clinic?
It's simple: the elastic arch stretches and begins to put pressure on the teeth, trying to return to their previous shape. Gradually the teeth shift. You may not see the changes: they are minor and not always noticeable, but they are there. After some time, the arc regains its original shape and the tension disappears. At this moment you need to go to the doctor so that he can replace it with a new, tougher one. It's pretty fast. In this way, the bite is gradually corrected.
Braces can quickly change the position of your teeth – within 1–2 years you will be able to enjoy an even and beautiful smile. But the treatment does not end there: after removing the structure, a new one is installed - retainers. They do not displace anything, but, on the contrary, fix the teeth in one position until the bone tissue, ligaments and muscles are rebuilt. Otherwise, the old bite will return.
Retainers can be removable (for example, a clear mouthguard) or permanent. The first ones are suitable for teenagers and young adults: their adjustment process is much faster, and they need to wear a mouthguard for about 2 years. After the age of 25–30, it is worth installing a fixed structure - a metal arch on the back side of the dentition. It is invisible, does not cause discomfort and does not require special attention. It is enough to take a little more careful care of your oral cavity and visit the dentist once every six months for professional cleaning.
Indications and contraindications
Braces therapy is performed if there are certain medical indications. Treatment can be started only if there are no contraindications. The orthodontist identifies all these aspects before planning a correction course.
Indications:
- Uneven position of dental elements in a row
- Crowding
- Displacement of the jaws relative to each other
- Abnormal interdental spaces (diastemas and trema)
- The need for dentures in case of dentition after tooth extraction
- Other occlusion defects
Contraindications:
- AIDS, HIV, tuberculosis
- Oncology
- Diabetes mellitus and thyroid dysfunction
- Severe problems with the cardiovascular system
- Bone diseases
- Blood diseases
- Children's age up to 12 years
- Lack of teeth for support
How to wear braces correctly
There are no special instructions: you do not need to adjust the structure yourself, try to remove the arches or tear the plates from the teeth. All this is done by the orthodontist in the clinic, after diagnosis and examination. However, there are several important rules that must be followed to avoid damaging the enamel and the system itself.
In particular, you should temporarily give up some foods and dishes:
- too hot and cold;
- hard, requiring effort when chewing (for example, nuts);
- chewing gum;
- sweets that may stick to metal parts.
You should not overindulge in sweets: it destroys teeth and leads to caries, for the treatment of which you will have to remove the structure. It is also worth reducing the consumption of strong tea, coffee and other drinks that can change the color of the enamel.
Particular attention should be paid to hygiene:
- rinse your mouth regularly;
- use an irrigator;
- Brush your teeth after every meal with a V-shaped brush (an ultrasonic brush is also a good option).
During treatment, enamel and soft tissues are subject to additional negative effects, so oral care must be taken as seriously as possible.
Cost of metal braces H4
Prices for American-made systems are not the lowest: from 36 thousand for a structure per jaw. You can calculate how much it will cost to correct your bite only at your appointment, after diagnosis and drawing up a treatment program.
If you expect not only to save money, but also to receive the highest quality service and get rid of aesthetic problems with your teeth forever, contact the Uni Dent clinic. We employ qualified orthodontists and have the ability to install structures of any brand. At an appointment with a dentist, you can prepare to correct your bite: cure caries, relieve inflammation of the gums and do much more, and in the future they will select the optimal system for you and take care of quick and effective therapy.
To make an appointment for your first consultation with an orthodontist, you just need to call or leave a request on the website. We will contact you shortly, offer a convenient time for your visit and receive you in our office.
A little about the manufacturer
H4 braces are manufactured by the large American company OC Orthodontics. The association has conquered the global market for dental products thanks to high quality, the use of innovative technologies and affordable prices for its products.
The company is distinguished by a wide product distribution network and close cooperation with specialists all over the world.
In the USA, OC Orthodontics regularly trains dentists and orthodontists, disseminating skills in handling new technologies and introducing samples of its products.
This is an extensive association of specialists, not only implementing production, but also engaged in innovation activities.