Orthodontics Braces
In Montvale, NJ, and Across Bergen County
What Kind of Braces Are Best For You?
Braces provide benefits beyond physical appearance by improving a person’s self-esteem. Orthodontic problems that go untreated can lead to several health issues. Misaligned teeth or jaw problems may lead to improper teeth cleaning, resulting in tooth decay, gum disease, and total tooth loss. These problems can also cause difficulty in chewing and digestion, speech impairments, and abnormal wear of tooth surfaces. Over time, excessive strain on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth can affect the jaw joints, leading to headaches or face and neck pain. At Montvale Orthodontics, we offer several braces to help correct issues with your teeth, such as crowding, crooked teeth, or misalignment:
Metal Braces
Metal braces include brackets that attach to the front of your teeth or bands and fit around each tooth with flexible wires or archwires that hold the bands together. Some braces also include rubber bands or metal ties, linking the brackets to the wire. These bands create more pressure to help straighten and align your teeth. Our doctors will help you explore the options and discuss if braces fit your treatment scenario.
Ceramic (Clear) Braces
Clear braces are a type of orthodontic treatment made of ceramic material. They are much less visible on your teeth compared to traditional metal braces. While teens and adults primarily use these braces, anyone can opt for them. The procedure for placing these braces is similar to metal braces, but a white wire makes them more visually appealing. With the latest technology, these clear brackets can be virtually invisible and are approximately the same size as traditional metal braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are an excellent option for a patient who wants to take advantage of using braces but wants to do so in the most discreet way possible. Placed on the lingual (inside or tongue-side) side of your teeth, lingual braces are the most non-visible braces. On most occasions, it’s hard to even tell if someone with lingual braces is in treatment.
Please find a few more advantages of lingual braces below:
- Engineered to be as small as possible and smooth to the touch, they are virtually invisible while you are in treatment.
- Friction is reduced by building customized brackets for each tooth.
- They are efficient at fixing more complex cases.
- Custom archwires that can deliver predictable and efficient tooth corrections and movement.
Consistency Is Key
Consistency is vital when it comes to orthodontic treatment. While it can solve many tooth alignment problems, good patient compliance is crucial for successful treatment. Wearing elastic bands regularly, keeping follow-up appointments for adjustments, and practicing excellent home care can all contribute to a positive outcome. This commitment also involves visiting your hygienist frequently for preventive care. Our team specializes in supporting our orthodontic patients through this process, ensuring they can enjoy a beautiful and healthy smile.
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Will my child need braces again when they're older? Will my insurance cover a second treatment?
It is difficult to say whether a child will need braces again when they are older, depending on their situation. Sometimes, expanding the palate is enough to reduce teeth crowding, and the teeth will remain straight. However, in some cases, children may need braces again to realign their teeth.
Regarding insurance coverage for a second treatment, it depends on the specific details of your insurance plan. There may be remaining benefits, as many plans offer a lifetime benefit. If you have any concerns or questions about insurance, please contact our office; we will be happy to assist you.
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Will my child have braces the entire time or will there be a period where we wait for adult teeth to come in?
Every patient's orthodontic treatment plan is customized and tailored to their unique needs. Whether or not your child will have braces the entire time or if there will be a period where we wait for adult teeth to come in depends on various factors, such as their age and individual treatment plan. There can be a gap of time when the patient does not have braces or any other orthodontic appliances. Rest assured that we will work with you and your child to create a treatment plan that is both effective and comfortable.
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How do I take care of my braces?
Taking care of metal dental braces requires a few important things to keep in mind:
- It's essential to avoid eating foods that aren't braces-friendly, such as chewy foods or soft candies that get stuck in the braces and are hard to clean out. Depending on the food, you may need to cut it into smaller pieces to prevent it from getting stuck in the braces.
- Brushing and flossing regularly is crucial, as there are more spaces, crevices, and surfaces for food to get stuck with braces.
- It's essential to keep up with regular appointments with your dentist to adjust, manage, and maintain your metal braces and ensure they work effectively. -
How long does treatment last?
Every patient is different and has a unique anatomy that must be considered in the treatment plan of the case. Different patients respond to treatment in their own way, so it truly does vary on a case-by-case basis. That said, because of our efficient techniques and technology, most patients are in braces anywhere from 12 to 18 months. We see many patients in braces for as little as 6 months, but for patients with more complex issues, it can take up to 2 to 2.5 years.
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How much do braces cost?
The cost of braces depends on the severity of the dental problem and the treatment options discussed with your dentist. Typically, the price can range from $2,000 - $5,000 or more, with lingual braces being more expensive than metal braces. The cost may vary based on individual insurance coverage, payment options provided by the dental office, and other factors. Therefore, the cost is unique to each individual or family based on their dental needs.
Don't Wait for the Problem to Get Worse
The quicker we address the issue, the faster we can provide relief. Request an appointment today to discuss whether braces are right for you or your child.
