Types of Braces
Braces have been used for decades to straighten crooked teeth and correct misalignment issues, and are a popular orthodontic treatment among patients of all ages.
At Rising Stars, we offer three types of braces: traditional metal, clear ceramic, and gold. Each type has its own benefits and features that our team will discuss with you in detail to help you make an informed decision for your or your child’s orthodontic treatment.
Traditional Metal
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are highly trusted by both orthodontists and patients. They consist of metal brackets that are bonded to each tooth and connected by a wire that applies gentle pressure to move the teeth into their desired positions.
These braces have come a long way over the years, becoming sleeker and more comfortable than ever before. The new designs offer smaller brackets and lighter wires, making them less noticeable and more comfortable to wear. They are also highly durable and deliver consistent results.
Moreover, traditional metal braces allow for a bit of personal style. With options to choose colored elastics, young patients can have fun personalizing their braces, making the orthodontic journey a bit more exciting and less daunting.
Clear Ceramic
Clear ceramic braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but are made from clear or tooth-colored materials, making them less noticeable on the teeth.
Clear ceramic braces are ideal for those who desire a more aesthetic appeal without compromising on the effectiveness of the treatment. They are crafted from a ceramic material that blends seamlessly with your natural tooth color, making them a more visually appealing option than traditional metal braces. This makes ceramic braces particularly popular among adults and older teenagers who may be self-conscious about the appearance of their orthodontic treatment.
In terms of care, clear ceramic braces require more attention to oral hygiene so that they continue to blend with your natural smile. The clear elastic ties that hold the wire to the brackets can stain if proper care is not taken. However, these ties are changed at each adjustment appointment, helping to keep your braces looking fresh and clean.
Gold
Gold braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but the brackets are made from gold-colored stainless steel instead. These braces offer a unique and stylish look to traditional metal braces and are a great choice for patients who want to make a statement with their orthodontic treatment.
Gold braces are not only visually stunning, but they also offer an excellent level of performance in straightening teeth. As with traditional braces, they allow for precise control of tooth movement, ensuring an efficient and effective treatment course. Their striking aesthetics, coupled with their robust performance, make gold braces a favored choice for those wanting to combine efficiency with a touch of starry glamour.
Braces For Kids
At Rising Stars, we understand the unique needs of our young patients. We believe that every child deserves a shining and healthy smile. Braces for kids are designed to be more comfortable and attractive, with the opportunity to choose fun colors that kids love. Our Austin dental team is experienced in dealing with the apprehensions and questions young patients may have and we strive to make their orthodontic journey enjoyable and fun. Our braces are not only effective at aligning teeth but also help improve oral health, leading to a lifetime of confident smiles.
Early Orthodontics
Early treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, can begin as early as age 7. At this age, teeth are still developing and the jaw is still growing. Certain conditions, such as crowding, can be easier to address. Early treatment allows your orthodontist to correct and guide your child’s jaw growth and development, helping the permanent teeth come in straight and avoiding the need for extractions later on.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. A visit at this age may help to avoid more serious problems down the road. If a problem is detected, our orthodontists can decide if immediate treatment is necessary or if it would be better to monitor the child’s growth patterns until the time is right for treatment to begin. This gives us an opportunity to provide the best treatment for each patient’s individual needs. Therefore, early treatment can simplify later treatment, after all the permanent teeth erupt.
Braces For Teens
Teenage years are often the most common time to begin orthodontic treatment, and there’s a good reason for that. By age 12 or 13, most of the permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, and crooked teeth, gaps, and bad bites can easily be spotted. These problems will hardly ever correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment.
We offer a variety of braces suited for teens. Whether it be traditional, ceramic, or gold, our braces are designed to be effective and as comfortable as possible. Our expert team will work closely with you to choose a treatment that best suits your teenager’s lifestyle, preferences, and dental needs.
Benefits of Braces
Braces not only result in a beautiful and straight smile, but they also greatly improve oral health. Crooked or crowded teeth can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Moreover, orthodontic problems can lead to abnormal tooth wear, inefficient chewing function, misalignment of the jaw joints, and excessive stress on gum tissue. By correcting these issues, braces help prevent long-term health problems while boosting self-esteem and confidence.
Life With Braces
Adapting to life with braces is much easier than most teens anticipate. Yes, there will be a few lifestyle changes, but these are usually minor and easy to adjust to. Maintaining oral hygiene is critical when wearing braces. Regular brushing and flossing will keep the braces clean and your mouth healthy. Eating might feel a little strange at first, and you’ll need to avoid certain hard or sticky foods that can damage the braces. But with time, you’ll be able to enjoy most of your favorite foods with braces on.
Regular visits to the orthodontist are essential for checking the progress of treatment and making any necessary adjustments. These appointments also give you the chance to ask questions and address any concerns you may have. Our team at Rising Stars is dedicated to providing exceptional care throughout your entire orthodontic journey.
Braces For Adults
Orthodontic treatment is not only for children and teenagers. In fact, about 1 in every 5 orthodontic patients today is an adult. We firmly believe that it’s never too late to achieve the perfect smile you’ve always wanted. A beautiful, healthy smile can significantly boost your self-confidence and improve your overall oral health.
Adult braces come in a variety of types, just like those for younger patients. Whether it’s traditional metal braces, clear ceramic, or gold braces, the choice is yours. Each type offers unique benefits and aesthetics, allowing us to tailor the treatment to your lifestyle and preferences.
Starting orthodontic treatment as an adult can have numerous benefits. Straight teeth are easier to clean and less prone to decay and gum disease. Correcting malocclusion (bad bites) can also improve chewing and speaking function. Moreover, braces can correct overcrowding and gaps in teeth, leading to a more attractive smile and increased self-confidence.
Perhaps you didn’t have the chance to receive orthodontic treatment when you were younger, or maybe your teeth have shifted over time. Regardless of the reason, don’t let your age deter you from exploring the benefits of braces. It’s never too late to take the first step towards improving your smile and oral health. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized orthodontic care for patients of all ages. We’re here to guide you along every step of your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child needs braces?
Determining whether your child needs braces can be a pivotal step in ensuring their oral health and confidence. There are several signs you can watch for that might indicate the need for orthodontic treatment. One of the most common signs is misaligned teeth, which can manifest as overcrowding, gaps, or an overbite. If your child’s teeth don’t come together correctly when they close their mouth, this could be a sign of a bite issue that braces can correct.
Another indicator is difficulty in chewing or biting food, which could suggest misalignment issues. Speech difficulties, such as lisping, might also be a clue that orthodontic treatment could be beneficial. Additionally, if your child often bites their cheek or the roof of their mouth, it might be due to misaligned teeth.
It’s also important to consider your child’s age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early assessment can help identify potential issues and determine if and when treatment might be needed. At Rising Stars Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dr. Nicholas Bumacod and Dr. Corey (Dr. Coco) are experienced in identifying these signs and guiding you through the process of deciding if braces are right for your child.
What is the best age to get braces?
The best age for braces can vary depending on the individual needs of the child. Generally, orthodontic treatment with braces is most effective during the ages of 10 to 14, when the mouth and head are still growing, making it easier to adjust teeth. However, this doesn’t mean that younger or older children cannot benefit from braces.
For some children, early intervention might be necessary. This is known as Phase 1 treatment and can begin as early as age 6 or 7. Early treatment can help correct issues like crossbites or severe crowding and can make subsequent treatment more effective.
For others, waiting until more permanent teeth have come in might be the best option. During your child’s initial evaluation at Rising Stars Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Marble Falls, Dr. Nicholas Bumacod and Dr. Coco will assess your child’s specific needs and growth patterns to recommend the most appropriate timing for braces.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
The duration of orthodontic treatment can vary significantly from one patient to another, largely depending on the severity of the misalignment and the specific treatment plan. On average, traditional braces are worn for about 18 to 24 months. However, some cases may require shorter or longer periods.
Factors such as the complexity of the dental issues, the type of braces used, and the patient’s adherence to the orthodontist’s instructions can influence the treatment timeline. For instance, following guidelines on wearing retainers post-braces and maintaining good oral hygiene can help ensure the treatment progresses smoothly and efficiently.
At Rising Stars Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dr. Nicholas Bumacod and Dr. Coco will provide a personalized treatment plan during the initial consultation, giving you a clearer idea of the expected duration based on your child’s unique needs.
Are braces covered by dental insurance?
Whether braces are covered by dental insurance can depend on your specific insurance plan. Many dental insurance plans offer some level of coverage for orthodontic treatments, especially for children. However, the extent of coverage can vary widely. Some plans might cover a percentage of the treatment, while others may offer a fixed amount or require a waiting period before coverage kicks in.
It’s important to review your insurance policy to understand what is covered. Some policies may only cover traditional metal braces and not other types of orthodontic appliances like ceramic braces or Invisalign. Additionally, there might be age limits or restrictions on the types of conditions that qualify for coverage.
At Rising Stars Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, the team can assist you in navigating your insurance benefits and provide guidance on financing options if needed. They understand that orthodontic care is an investment in your child’s future, and they strive to make it as accessible as possible for families in Marble Falls and beyond.
