Braces in Woodbridge

How Can I Get Braces in Woodbridge?

If you’ve decided to improve the look of your smile with orthodontic treatment, the first place to begin your journey is our dental office. During your consultation with our braces dentist, you’ll learn more about the options available to you and how you can benefit from treatment. You’ll also receive a custom treatment plan based on your individual goals. Schedule your appointment today to take the first step towards a straighter smile.

How Are Braces Placed on Teeth?

The specific steps involved for putting on braces remain the same whether you’re receiving metal or ceramic materials. To begin treatment, your teeth are cleaned and dried to prepare them for the placement of the metal brackets. Then, bonding materials are applied to each tooth and small brackets are attached. The bonding materials are composed of safe materials, although you may find the taste unpleasant. Dental archwires are threaded through each bracket and small elastics are attached to the brackets to secure the archwire in place.

If you’re receiving the invisible type of orthodontic treatment, the metal brackets and wires are placed on the back of your teeth instead of being attached to the front of your teeth. This is a slightly more involved process and requires the expertise of a specially trained orthodontist.

Are There Different Types of Braces?

To suit the needs of all patients who want a straighter smile, our practice offers several options to choose from. Metal braces are considered the most traditional type. They are made from stainless steel and consist of metal brackets that are placed over each tooth. There are also ceramic braces, which are similar in size and shape to the traditional metal type, but the brackets are composed of a transparent material that’s much less visible.

There are usually two options for invisible braces. The first type involves attaching metal brackets and wires to the inside of teeth so that they’re undetectable from the outside. There are also clear aligner trays that are worn over the teeth. These work by applying gentle pressure to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position, and they’re easily removed while eating or drinking. To discover which of these options for braces in Woodbridge will work best for your smile, call our office to schedule an appointment.

How Much Do Braces Cost?

The total cost for braces is based on the unique needs of each patient. The complexity of your case, your dental insurance coverage, and the specific treatment you receive are examples that can affect total cost. We encourage you to ask about our in-office payment options or flexible financing options, and you can also contact your insurance provider about coverage for treatment. After discussing your goals and treatment plan, your dentist or orthodontist can give you an estimate of your expected costs. Schedule an appointment today to get started.

How Long Does Getting Braces Take?

The total length of the procedure can take anywhere between one to two hours. Although getting braces isn’t a painful procedure, you can expect to feel soreness in your teeth and gums afterward. This is normal, and you can take over-the-counter medication for pain relief. We usually recommend eating soft foods for the first few days to minimize discomfort. Most symptoms improve within a week, but if you’re experiencing significant pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medicine, please call our office. You can expect to receive orthodontic treatment for approximately one to two years.

How Long Will I Need to Wear a Retainer After Braces?

Since your teeth are still adjusting to their new position and it’s still possible for your teeth to shift and move after your braces are removed, all patients must wear a retainer to maintain their results. Retainers are usually worn at night, but you may also need to wear it during the day to ensure the position of your teeth. Your orthodontist will give you specific information regarding how long you need to wear your retainer. You may only need to wear it for a few years, but some people need to wear a retainer indefinitely.

Removing braces isn’t a lengthy procedure, and it can usually be completed in about an hour. Your orthodontist will use a small instrument to clip the brackets and wires off of your teeth. Any remaining bonding agent will also be removed by cleaning and polishing your teeth. It’s normal to feel some pressure while the brackets and wires are removed, but it’s typically a painless experience. You’ll also be asked to have an impression or mold of your teeth taken, which is used to manufacture your customized retainer.