Teeth-straightening solutions from the teenage years and beyond
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teens—there are solutions for every smile, whether you’re an adolescent or an adult. While we love helping you achieve a confident, beautiful smile, orthodontics also plays a key role in improving your oral health and overall comfort. Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can make cleaning difficult, cause discomfort, and even lead to pain. Fortunately, with modern orthodontic treatments, these issues can often be resolved in as little as 6 months.
How Do I Know If I Need Orthodontics?
You may benefit from orthodontic care if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Overbite – When your upper teeth sit too far forward
- Underbite – When your lower teeth sit too far forward
- Spacing – Gaps or spaces between your teeth
- Crowding – Teeth that overlap or are too close together, making flossing difficult
- Crossbite – A bite where your teeth don’t align comfortably
- Pain – Chronic headaches, jaw pain, or discomfort in your upper back and neck
Straightening your teeth and correcting your bite can do wonders for your confidence, comfort, and oral health. Whether you’re a teenager or well into adulthood, it’s never too late to achieve a healthier, more comfortable smile.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Orthodontic treatment has come a long way, offering a variety of solutions to meet your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget. Here are a few popular options to consider:
Traditional Braces
When you think of braces, you might picture large, bulky metal brackets. Today’s braces, however, are far more advanced—smaller, more comfortable, and much less noticeable. Modern metal brackets are also easier to clean while remaining highly effective for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues.
Clear Brackets
For those who want the benefits of traditional braces but with a more subtle look, clear brackets are a great choice. These brackets function just like conventional braces but blend in with your teeth for a more discreet appearance. This option is especially popular with adults who prefer a low-profile approach to orthodontic care.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are an increasingly popular alternative to braces. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually and comfortably shift your teeth into their ideal position. Clear aligners fit snugly and can be removed for eating, brushing, flossing, and even special occasions like an important meeting or a night out. They offer a nearly invisible way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
The Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Orleans
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in both your smile and oral health. With a typical insurance plan, out-of-pocket costs generally range between $3,000 and $5,000+, depending on your coverage. If you don’t have insurance, treatment costs typically fall between $4,000 and $6,000+.
After a thorough oral exam, we’ll provide you with a personalized quote so you can understand exactly what your insurance covers and what your actual expenses will be.
How Is the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment Determined?
The cost of your orthodontic care depends on several factors, including:
- Your oral health – The condition of your teeth, gums, and overall dental health.
- The amount of movement needed – How far your teeth need to shift to achieve the desired result.
- The treatment option you choose – Options like traditional braces, clear brackets, or clear aligners can impact costs.
- The length of treatment – Longer treatments may involve more adjustments and appointments.
Orthodontic treatment may seem expensive, but it’s tailored to meet your unique needs. Because no two smiles are the same, the best way to determine the cost is to book a consultation. During your visit, we’ll take the time to understand your goals, assess your teeth, and create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Contact us to book your initial consultation and exam—we’re here to help you take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
During your consultation, we’ll thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and the overall condition of your bite. This allows us to understand how your entire mouth looks and functions. Before creating your personalized treatment plan, we take the time to learn everything about the health and aesthetics of your smile, as well as your specific goals.
Your smile is unique, and so is our approach. Let’s work together to achieve the results you’re looking for!
Frequently Asked Questions
While orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, it’s recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early intervention allows us to monitor growth and address issues as they arise. However, orthodontics isn’t just for kids—teens and adults can benefit from treatment at any stage of life.
You may experience some discomfort when braces are first placed or after adjustments, but it’s typically mild and temporary. Clear aligners may also cause slight pressure as your teeth shift. Any discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Hard Foods
Avoid hard foods like nuts, ice, hard candy, or raw vegetables (such as carrots or apples) that can break or bend your braces. These can put excessive pressure on the brackets and wires, leading to discomfort and even damage.
Sticky Foods
Sticky foods like chewing gum, caramel, toffee, or taffy can cling to your braces and be difficult to remove. This increases the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. Plus, sticky foods can potentially pull off brackets or wires.
Chewy Foods
Chewy foods, such as bagels, pizza crust, and tough meats, can be challenging to chew with braces. They might cause strain on your teeth and braces and may lead to discomfort or damage.
Crunchy Foods
Foods like chips, popcorn, and hard crackers can also be problematic. These crunchy snacks can break your braces or get stuck between your teeth and brackets, making it harder to clean your teeth effectively.
Sugary Foods and Drinks
Sugary foods and drinks should always be limited, as they contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Sodas, sports drinks, and sugary snacks can promote plaque buildup around your braces, which can lead to staining and tooth damage over time.
While you don’t have to eliminate these foods completely, being mindful of what you eat can make a significant difference in your braces experience. Opting for softer, bite-sized foods and taking extra care with oral hygiene will help keep your braces and teeth in great condition.
If a bracket (the small square that attaches to your tooth) breaks or loosens, it’s important to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. A broken bracket can cause discomfort or make your treatment less effective. In the meantime, if the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place to avoid further damage. If it’s completely detached, keep the bracket in a safe place, and let your orthodontist know. You may need to schedule a visit for repairs.
Loose or Bent Wires
A wire can become loose or bent, causing pain or irritation to the inside of your mouth. If the wire is poking into your cheek or gums and causing discomfort, you can use orthodontic wax to cover the end until you can get to your orthodontist. Never cut the wire yourself as this can cause more harm.
Broken or Lost Aligners
If you wear clear aligners and one breaks or goes missing, it’s important to contact your orthodontist immediately. Don’t wait for your next scheduled appointment. In the meantime, try to wear your last set of aligners if you still have them, as this can help keep your teeth in place until you get a replacement. Your orthodontist may be able to send a new tray to you or provide guidance on how to proceed.
In all cases, it’s best to get in touch with your orthodontist right away to avoid delays in your treatment. They’ll provide the next steps and make sure you’re back on track as quickly as possible.
Flossing with braces may feel tricky at first, but it’s essential for maintaining good oral hygiene throughout your treatment. Food and plaque can easily get trapped around your brackets and wires, leading to cavities and gum issues if not cleaned properly. Here’s a simple guide to help you floss effectively with braces:
Use the Right Tools
While regular floss can work, special tools like floss threaders or orthodontic floss are often more efficient. A floss threader acts like a needle that helps you guide the floss under your braces’ wires. You can also use a water flosser to clean between your teeth and braces, which is a quick and effective alternative.
Step-by-Step Flossing
1. Cut a piece of floss: Cut a piece of waxed floss about 18 inches long. If you’re using a floss threader, thread the floss through it.
2. Insert the floss under the wire: Carefully slide the floss under the wire of your braces, using the threader if needed.
3. Clean between each tooth: Gently move the floss up and down between your teeth, making sure to reach below the gumline. Curve the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape to clean all surfaces.
4.Remove the floss carefully: Once you’ve flossed between one pair of teeth, pull the floss out and repeat for the rest of your teeth.
Take Your Time
It might take a bit longer than regular flossing, but be patient. It’s important to floss each tooth carefully to avoid plaque buildup and ensure your gums stay healthy.
Keep Your Braces Clean
Don’t forget to brush your teeth after flossing to remove any remaining debris. If you’re using a floss threader, make sure to clean it after each use, so it stays in good condition.
Flossing with braces requires a bit of extra effort, but it’s one of the best ways to keep your smile healthy while your braces do their work. With the right technique and tools, you’ll get the hang of it in no time!
The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the misalignment, the type of treatment chosen, and how well you follow care instructions. On average, orthodontic treatment takes between 6 months and 2 years. We’ll provide a more accurate timeline during your consultation.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are an excellent alternative for mild to moderate alignment issues. They are discreet, removable, and effective when worn as instructed. Traditional braces are often recommended for more complex corrections.
Absolutely! Orthodontic care is effective for adults looking to improve their smile and oral health. Modern options like clear aligners and clear braces make treatment more convenient and discreet for adults.
If you have more questions about orthodontics or are ready to start your journey to a straighter smile, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
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