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Types of Braces
At Straight Smiles, we offer both metal and clear braces to help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. Whether you’re looking for the strength of traditional metal braces or the subtle appearance of clear braces, we have an option that fits your lifestyle and needs. Our experienced team will guide you in choosing the best solution based on your goals, preferences, and treatment plan.
Metal Braces — Reliable & Effective
Metal braces have been a trusted orthodontic solution for decades, and today’s versions are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. Made from high-quality stainless steel, metal braces use brackets and wires to gently guide your teeth into alignment.
Benefits of Metal Braces
- Highly durable and effective — Ideal for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, including severe misalignments.
- Cost-effective — Typically the most affordable option for comprehensive care.
- Customizable with colors — Choose from a variety of elastic band colors to personalize your look.
- Consistent results — Provides steady and reliable tooth movement for precise alignment.
Metal braces are a great choice for patients of all ages who want a proven, efficient way to achieve a beautifully straight smile.
Clear Braces — A Discreet Alternative
If you want the effectiveness of traditional braces but with a more subtle appearance, clear braces may be the perfect solution. Made from tooth-colored ceramic material, these braces blend in with your teeth, making them far less noticeable than metal braces.
Why Choose Clear Braces?
- More discreet than metal braces — A great option for teens and adults who prefer a less noticeable treatment.
- Works just like traditional braces — Provides the same level of effectiveness as metal braces.
- Durable and stain-resistant — Modern ceramic braces are designed to resist staining and maintain their clear look.
- Great for moderate to complex cases — Suitable for patients who may not be candidates for clear aligners but still want a low-profile option.
Clear braces are ideal for those who need the power of braces but prefer a treatment that is less visible in daily life.
Which Braces Are Right for You?
Both metal and clear braces offer exceptional results, and the right choice depends on your personal preference, treatment needs, and lifestyle. Our team will help you decide which option aligns best with your goals, ensuring you receive the most effective and comfortable care possible.
Ready to transform your smile? Request a consultation today to learn more about your braces options at Straight Smiles!
Braces for Kids
At Straight Smiles, we believe that early evaluation is key to ensuring a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. While many children won’t need braces right away, identifying potential issues early allows us to guide jaw development, correct bite problems, and create space for permanent teeth to come in properly.
When Should My Child See a Specialist?
It is recommended that children have their first evaluation by age 7. At this age, the mix of baby teeth and emerging adult teeth allows us to detect and address issues before they become more complex.
Early Treatment (Phase One Treatment)
Early treatment, also called Phase One treatment, is designed for younger children who still have baby teeth but show signs of jaw misalignment, crowding, or bite issues. This phase typically begins between the ages of 7 and 10 and helps:
- Guide jaw growth — Ensures proper alignment and prevents future issues.
- Create space for adult teeth — Reduces the need for extractions later.
- Correct harmful habits — Addresses thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing.
- Improve facial symmetry — Helps align the jaw for a more balanced appearance.
Not all kids need early treatment, but for those who do, it can simplify or even eliminate the need for more extensive work later.
Braces for Kids (Phase Two Treatment)
For children who need full treatment, Phase Two braces typically begin around ages 11 to 14, when most or all of their permanent teeth have come in. This phase focuses on:
- Straightening teeth — Corrects crooked or overlapping teeth for a healthier, more confident smile.
- Fixing bite alignment — Addresses overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
- Enhancing function — Improves chewing, speech, and long-term dental health.
Why Start Treatment Early?
Early smile care doesn’t just improve aesthetics, it sets the foundation for better long-term oral health. Addressing problems early can prevent more severe misalignment, jaw issues, or tooth extractions later in life.
If you’re wondering whether your child may need braces, we’re here to help! Request a consultation today to learn more about the benefits of early treatment.
Braces for Teens
The teenage years are the perfect time to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. At Straight Smiles, we offer customized solutions to help teens achieve a healthy, confident smile—whether they prefer traditional metal braces or discreet clear braces. With advanced technology and personalized care, we make treatment a smooth and comfortable experience for teens and their families.
Why Are the Teen Years Ideal for Braces?
Between the ages of 11 and 17, most or all of a teen’s permanent teeth have come in, making it an ideal time for treatment. At this stage, the jaw is still developing, so teeth are easier to guide into their proper positions. Braces during the teen years can:
- Correct crooked or crowded teeth — Improving both aesthetics and oral health.
- Fix bite alignment issues — Preventing future jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and uneven tooth wear.
- Boost confidence — A straight smile helps teens feel great about their appearance.
- Set the stage for lifelong oral health — Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Life with Braces — What to Expect
Adjusting to life with braces is easy with the right care and habits. Here’s what teens can expect:
Eating with Braces
While most foods are fine, some should be avoided to prevent damage to braces:
- Sticky foods (gum, caramel, taffy)
- Hard foods (nuts, ice, popcorn)
- Chewy foods (bagels, tough meats)
Braces-friendly foods include soft fruits, yogurt, pasta, and smoothies.
Brushing & Flossing with Braces
Good oral hygiene is key to preventing cavities and staining around brackets. We recommend:
- Brushing after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily with a floss threader or floss.
- Using a water flosser to remove food particles from hard-to-reach areas.
Managing Discomfort
Braces adjustments may cause mild soreness for a day or two. Teens can:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
- Eat soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies after adjustments.
- Use orthodontic wax to prevent irritation from brackets.
The Reward: A Beautiful Smile for Life!
Braces may take 12 to 24 months, but the results last a lifetime! With patience and proper care, teens will achieve a straight, healthy smile they’ll be proud to show off.
Ready to start the journey to a confident smile? Request a consultation today, and let’s find the best braces option for your teen!
Braces for Adults
A straight smile isn’t just for kids and teens — more adults than ever are choosing to straighten their teeth and improve their smiles. Whether you missed out on braces in your younger years or have experienced shifting over time, Straight Smiles offers effective, customized treatment options designed for adult lifestyles and goals.
Why Consider Braces as an Adult?
Many adults seek treatment for a variety of reasons, including:
- Straightening crooked or crowded teeth — Enhancing both function and appearance.
- Fixing bite issues — Correcting overbites, underbites, and crossbites that may cause discomfort or uneven wear.
- Addressing teeth shifting — Teeth can naturally move over time, even after previous orthodontic treatment.
- Improving oral health — Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
- Boosting confidence — A well-aligned smile can improve self-esteem in personal and professional settings.
No matter your reason for seeking treatment, our modern braces options can help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Treatment for Adults — What to Expect
Braces work the same way for adults as they do for younger patients, but there are some unique considerations for adult treatment:
Longer Treatment Time
Because adult bones are no longer growing, tooth movement may take slightly longer compared to younger patients. Most adult braces treatments last between 12 to 30 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Addressing Pre-Existing Dental Work
Many adults have fillings, crowns, or bridges, which can impact treatment. At Straight Smiles, we customize your plan to work around existing dental work while achieving the best possible results.
Managing Discomfort
Braces may cause minor soreness after adjustments. Adults can manage this with:
- Soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies after adjustments.
- Orthodontic wax to prevent irritation from brackets.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Good oral care is essential to prevent staining, cavities, and gum issues during treatment:
- Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily with floss threaders or a water flosser.
- Attend regular dental checkups to ensure healthy teeth and gums.
A Lifetime of Benefits
Investing in braces as an adult can enhance your smile, boost confidence, and improve oral health for years to come. Whether you’re correcting long-standing alignment issues or addressing recent changes, it’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Ready to transform your smile? Request a consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you!
