Types of Braces

At Forever Smiles Orthodontics, we design dazzling smiles that will last a lifetime. In pursuit of this goal, we pride ourselves on offering the most state-of-the-art treatments available. While braces have been a staple of orthodontics for decades, our appliances are anything but outdated. In recent years, these appliances have been optimized for maximum efficiency with a more discreet appearance. Braces are a trusted corrective treatment because of their ability to provide consistently beautiful results tailored to a patient’s orthodontic needs and goals. Along with top-of-the-line appliances, we offer our advanced techniques implemented by skilled professionals.

Metal

Metal braces are one of the most traditional forms of corrective treatment that is highly efficient and reliable. Our practice pulls from established orthodontic research while incorporating modern processes that allow us to give patients a well-rounded treatment experience. This means that we have adopted metal braces that are sleeker and more effective than past versions.

Like traditional metal braces, this appliance consists of brackets placed on each tooth and linked by a stainless steel wire that will be adjusted throughout treatment. The wires and brackets are bound together by rubber bands that you can customize by color to give your braces a personal touch.

Each of our treatment plans is unique to the patient, and they vary depending on the patient’s needs and goals. This means that each person will spend a different amount of time in braces and have a different price attached to their treatment. While we understand that orthodontics is an investment, we want to make the process as affordable as possible by offering flexible financing plans that have been designed to help our patients easily budget their appliances. We also work with your insurance provider so that you pay as few out-of-pocket expenses as possible.

While each treatment option has been refined over time to provide ultimate comfort, there will be an adjustment period as you get used to your appliance. Additionally, you may experience slight discomfort as your teeth begin to shift into place for your forever smile. To help ease any discomfort, you can use braces wax or any over-the-counter pain medicine you prefer. Typically, our patients quickly adjust to this change and enjoy smooth and comfortable progress toward their desired results.

Ceramic

Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces. However, their brackets are made of ceramic material rather than stainless steel. The tooth-colored brackets allow our patients to enjoy a more discreet corrective treatment than they would in traditional braces.

While ceramic braces are just as effective as other types of braces, the brackets are slightly less durable and may break more easily. If you take care of your appliance and avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods, this shouldn’t be a factor, and you can achieve your desired results with a more natural-looking treatment.

Every patient has different orthodontic needs and goals, and if their issues are more extensive, they may spend a longer time in braces so that we can address the problem thoroughly. While a free consultation is the best way to get a realistic timeline for your treatment needs, we find that most of our patients remain in their braces for one to two years.

Pitts 21 Self-ligating Braces

Pitts 21 Self-Ligating Braces are a revolutionary corrective treatment that uses a unique bracket and wire system that adjusts itself over time, resulting in a shortened treatment process. We will place a special bracket on each tooth that has a small opening that holds the wire snugly in place.

Unlike traditional braces, no bands are connecting the brackets to the wire, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning around bands that tend to hide plaque and food particles. This appliance has no rough edges, so you can have a comfortable treatment experience while working toward your dream smile.

One of the greatest benefits of self-ligating braces is that you will have fewer and shorter appointments. While we enjoy seeing our patients, we know that you have a busy schedule, and it can be difficult to schedule frequent orthodontic appointments for adjustments. The wires of these braces will provide consistent pressure to your teeth as they shift into place for a straighter and healthier smile. Many patients enjoy how comfortable this treatment is and how free they feel as they progress to their forever smile.