Braces
Braces in Southington, CT
Thinking about getting braces? They work by applying gradual pressure to nudge misaligned teeth into their optimal position. This straightens your smile and improves how your mouth functions.
If you’ve been wondering whether braces are the right choice for your dental needs, this guide is here to help you make an informed decision.
Getting braces can be a big step, and we want you to feel completely comfortable and confident before moving forward. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about the process and what results you can expect.
Our experienced orthodontic team will perform a thorough exam, explain your options clearly, and work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.
Does Getting Braces Take a Long Time?
The process of getting braces can seem daunting at first, but modern techniques make it relatively quick and painless. Once the brackets and wires are in place, it may feel foreign and uncomfortable for the first few days as your mouth gets used to the new hardware. But soon enough, the braces become just another part of your smile.
It’s understandable to be nervous about how braces could impact your appearance and social life. However, so many teens and adults have braces these days – they’ve almost become a rite of passage! Far from being embarrassed, many people bond over their shared experiences with orthodontia. And when your treatment is finally complete, revealing your new, straightened smile is an amazing boost to your confidence.
Having braces requires some lifestyle adjustments, too, of course. Foods may need to be cut into smaller pieces to avoid damage and you’ll have to take care to brush and floss thoroughly. But developing good oral hygiene habits now will pay dividends for your smile in the long run. The commitment feels worthwhile when you see your teeth slowly improving week by week.
The braces journey teaches patience and perseverance. But you’re not alone in it. By keeping a positive attitude and looking towards the bright, straight smile ahead, you’ll get through this phase smoothly. Soon, you’ll have the smile you’ve always dreamed of!
What Are the Different Types of Braces?
With all the options out there for straightening smiles, it can get overwhelming trying to pick the right type of braces. But the orthodontists at our Southington office are here to walk you through it. During a consultation, we’ll examine your teeth and jaw alignment to determine which braces will work best for your situation.
Our patients find metal braces are the most affordable and effective choice. We customize each wire and bracket to apply ideal pressure and guide your teeth into place efficiently. Ceramics blend in more with your natural tooth color for those concerned about aesthetics. Removable clear aligners offer flexibility and invisibility for adults with mild alignment issues.
Each patient and smile is unique, with their special considerations. But no matter what appliances you end up with, our orthodontists focus on your comfort and confidence throughout the process. We’ll make sure you understand exactly how to care for your braces so you can achieve the healthiest outcome. Adjustment appointments help tackle any issues before they slow down progress.
If you or your child have wondered if braces are the right move, we are ready to answer all your questions during an initial meeting. Seeing an evaluation firsthand might just give you the motivation to take the first step! Our talented orthodontic team can’t wait to learn more about your smile goals and how we can help you meet them.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
Figuring out how to pay for braces can feel stressful when you’re faced with that initial price tag. However, our orthodontic office wants this treatment to be accessible, not a financial burden. We’ll thoroughly explain the projected costs unique to your custom treatment plan so there are no surprises down the road.
Many dental insurance plans provide some level of orthodontic coverage, especially for minors. We assist with verifying your benefits and claim paperwork, maximizing what insurance will chip in. Flexible financing options are available, too, breaking payments into more manageable monthly installments.
The cost is easier to justify when you consider how transformative straightened teeth can be. This goes beyond an improved appearance – properly aligned bites make eating, speaking, and oral hygiene much easier. It’s an investment in better chewing, clearer speech, and tooth longevity. Those dividends last decades, making braces a wise commitment to your health.
Our outstanding orthodontists tailor treatment to what your smile really requires – no more, no less. Whether you choose metal braces, clear aligners, or another method, you only pay for what will get you the straightest teeth possible. No frills or excess. If you have concerns about budgeting, please discuss them at your consultation. Affording this life-changing treatment is doable!
How Long Will It Take to Get Braces Applied?
Sitting in the orthodontist’s chair getting braces put on can make anyone feel anxious. But our staff moves through the process efficiently, keeping you comfortable. We walk you through each step, like taking molds or placing spacers. The actual bracket bonding goes faster than you’d think!
We understand those first days with a wired smile may feel strange. Tenderness and irritation are normal as your teeth and mouth adjust. Try soft foods, over-the-counter pain relievers, and orthodontic wax for any brackets poking your cheeks. But call us if discomfort persists beyond a week – we can evaluate for issues causing undue pain.
The average braces timeline ranges from 12-24 months. But don’t focus too much on gauging months. Instead, celebrate little milestones – when wires get upgraded, elastic bands are added or removed, and spaces close. Marking progress keeps motivation high through the treatment grind. Before you know it, your smile transformation will be complete!
Some patients even choose to keep their braces on a bit longer than needed – because they’ll miss their orthodontist! The appointments become something to look forward to as we revel in the strides your smile has made. Our team feels privileged to take this journey with you. Each new grin we reveal fuels our passion for improving lives, one set of braces at a time.
Wearing a Retainer After Braces
After months or even years of wires and elastic, brace removal day finally arrives – what an exciting milestone! As we begin detaching each bracket, you’ll slowly reveal a bright, straight new smile taking form. We share in our patients’ joy during this reveal. All the discomfort and diligent care becomes worthwhile in this moment.
With your braces off, teeth may feel sensationally smooth yet also unfamiliar. Don’t panic if slight spaces reopen temporarily while adjusting to their new alignment. Custom retainers help them settle into a proper, lasting position. Wearing these appliances regularly prevents any shifting while your smile stabilizes.
Most patients transition to nightly retainer use for at least a year initially. From there, we can discuss easing duration and frequency based on your unique teeth. Some choose to wear retainers part-time indefinitely, especially if teeth are still maturing or prone to moving. This commitment safeguards the beautiful smile you’ve gained.
We’ll still want to see your smile at occasional check-ups, ensuring retainers keep working their magic. Notify us right away if any feel loose or damaged so they can be repaired or replaced. With faithful retainer-wearing and good oral hygiene practiced, you should maintain a healthy, straight smile for years to come! We’re honored to have partnered on this rewarding journey with you.
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Call our office at (860) – 9655 995