Orthodontics Braces
In Montvale, NJ, and Across Bergen County
What Kind of Braces Are Best For You?
The benefits of braces often go beyond the obvious physical changes of an improved bite and straighter teeth; it's also a great way to improve a person's overall self-image. While having beautiful straight teeth is important, what's more important is the need to alleviate any potential health problems associated with the teeth or jaw. Crooked teeth or jaw problems may contribute to improper cleaning of teeth, leading to tooth decay and, possibly, gum disease or total tooth loss. Orthodontic problems that go untreated can lead to chewing and digestion difficulties, 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 problems such as headaches or face and neck pain.
There are all kinds of braces that help correct problems with your teeth, like crowding, crooked teeth, or misalignment. Here are the types of braces we offer at Montvale Orthodontics:
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 made of ceramic material and are much less visible on your teeth than traditional metal braces. Typically, these braces are reserved mainly for teens and adults; however, anyone can use them for orthodontic treatment. These braces are placed on the teeth in the same manner as metal braces, but a white wire is used in the treatment to be more visually appealing to you. The latest technology allows these clear brackets to be virtually invisible. They are approximately the same size as traditional metal braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are a great 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
While orthodontics can solve many tooth alignment problems, successful treatment relies on good patient compliance. Wearing elastic bands consistently, keeping follow-up appointments for adjustments, and practicing outstanding home care can all help lead to a positive outcome. This commitment involves frequent preventive visits with your hygienist. Our team specializes in helping our orthodontic patients through this process so they can enjoy a gorgeous, healthy smile.
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Will my child need braces again when they're older? Will my insurance cover a second treatment?
This depends on each individual patient's situation. Some children need braces again when they're older to realign their teeth. However, sometimes expanding the palate is enough to reduce teeth crowding, and the teeth will remain straight.
Depending on your insurance coverage, there may be remaining benefits. Many plans offer a lifetime benefit. If you have questions about insurance, reach out to our office, and we will be happy to address your concerns.
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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 treatment plan is different. This will depend on a number of factors, including the age of the patient and their individual treatment plan. It is possible for there to be a gap of time where the patient does not have braces or any appliances.
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How do I take care of my braces?
There are a few things to keep in mind when maintaining metal dental braces.
- Avoid foods that aren't braces-friendly, such as chewy foods or soft candies that get stuck in the braces and will be hard to clean out of the hardware. Depending on the food, you may need to cut it into smaller pieces to keep it from getting stuck in the braces.
- Brush and floss on a regular basis. This is always important but becomes more important with braces because there are more spaces, crevices, and surfaces for food to get stuck.
- Ensure you keep your regular appointments with your dentist to adjust, manage, and maintain your metal braces. -
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 for braces usually depends on the severity of the problem and the treatment options discussed between you and your dentist. On average, any of these solutions can range from $2,000 - $5,000 or more, with lingual braces costing more than metal braces.
Costs are affected by individual insurance coverage, dental office payment options, etc. So it really is a cost that is unique to you and your family depending on the extent of your 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.
