Braces aren’t for everyone, but they do provide a wonderful solution for many. Having a great smile isn’t always just about looks. Braces can improve functionality and directly impact your overall oral health in the process. Creating the smile you want to accomplish offers health and confidence, leaving you feeling your best. It’s always a good idea to know what you are getting into with something like braces. They are an investment and often require extended treatment times.

In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about getting brace sin Allentown, NJ. We will walk you through everything you should do, cover types and benefits, and talk about maintenance when you get the braces off too. Check out this guide to know exactly what to expect on your braces journey.

Why Braces? It’s More Than Just Aesthetic Benefits

There are many reasons to get braces and they can resolve a lot of different oral issues a person might experience. So many people assume that braces just straighten teeth. While that is a big part of what they do, there is so much more to them. Whether you’re considering Invisalign in Allentown, NJ or looking at braces in Central NJ, it’s important to know their true capabilities.

While braces will correct alignment, they do a lot to improve oral health. These are some of the benefits they offer:

• Improve bite alignment
• Easier to clean all over
• Improve speech
• Boost confidence and self-image

Misalignment can cause a lot of oral complications and challenges. It’s not uncommon for misalignment to lead to jaw pain, difficult chewing, and even headaches. Plus, trying to brush and floss in those hard to reach or hidden areas is incredibly challenging, which can increase plaque buildup, cavities, and the risk of gum disease.

The treatment journey will be unique to your needs as well as your goals.

Understanding the Different Types of Braces in Allentown

There are many different types of braces. It’s important to work with an orthodontist in Allentown, NJ to determine what the offer or recommend. However, we want you to fully understand the different options on the market so you can recognize terms or share with your provider if you have a preference. It’s not a one size fits all approach. The right type of braces for you very well might depend on your needs.

Learn more about the different types below.

Traditional Metal Braces

Perhaps the most common braces option is traditional metal braces. These are easily recognizable and the go-to solution for the majority of braces wearers. With traditional metal options, you get metal brackets placed on each tooth and connected with metal wires to achieve the necessary results. The wire is attached to the brackets using bands. Those bands can be clear or they can be colored.

Traditional metal braces gradually shift your teeth into place. They are adjusted every month or two with various wire types and other adjustments that your orthodontist will know and understand. Modern technology and design have greatly improved these metal braces to create a small and comfortable bracket that is more comfortable than older options have been.

Metal braces are cost-effective and highly durable. They can handle anything from minor needs to severe misalignment and even help with crossbite, overbite, and underbite challenges too.

Ceramic Braces

An alternative to metal, ceramic braces are a choice for someone who needs strong alignment correction but is looking for a slightly more subtle look. Ceramic braces tend to cost more than traditional metal braces in Central NJ.

With ceramic, they work almost exactly the same as metal braces. The biggest difference is that the metal brackets on the teeth are instead clear or tooth-colored brackets. It takes away a large amount of the metal look, but not all of it. With ceramic braces, there will still be metal wires and the bands that attach the wires to the brackets. However, it does change the look quite a bit when compared to full metal brackets.

Clear Aligners

If you want invisible braces in Allentown, you might consult with your orthodontist about the option of clear aligners. These are awesome for someone who wants a discreet or invisible solution. With this treatment, you are provided with clear trays that are formed exactly to your teeth. They are nearly invisible and they are removable.

This option is perfect for discretion as well as convenience, making them a popular choice among adults. They work for mild to moderate alignment issues, but they do have some limitations.

What to Expect from the Braces Journey

The truth is that every braces journey is going to be unique. Every individual has unique needs and goals when it comes to orthodontic treatment. As you plan and prepare, your orthodontist is going to help create a customized treatment plan and set your expectations for the journey.

While each experience is unique, the process typically works like this:

1. A consultation and full assessment of your teeth to determine a treatment plan
2. Installing braces to your teeth per the treatment plan. There may be an adjustment period and some slight discomfort while you adjust
3. Regular visits and checkups for adjustments as you progress
4. Removal of braces when treatment is complete and the desired effects are achieved
5. Wearing a retainer or having a permanent retainer placed

Braces Care and Maintenance

While your braces are on, it’s important to follow the rules the orthodontist gives you for proper care and upkeep. This includes avoiding certain foods, brushing and flossing well, and keeping your appointments. When the braces come off, some providers offer whitening services to help brings you teeth back to consistent shades. You will want to wear your retainer as directed and again take great care of your teeth.

Conclusion

If you’re considering Braces in Allentown, NJ, this guide gives you some basic insight to understand what to expect and what your options may be. Work closely with a provider and know that you can achieve a stunning smile no matter your age or your needs.