Braces for Teens & AdultsSmaller. Lighter. Faster. Braces have come a long way since the ‘80s.
Metal Braces
Ceramic Braces
Clear Braces
How do braces work?
The most common type of braces is traditional metal braces. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. Once the metal brackets are glued onto your teeth, a metal wire is inserted through the brackets to hold it in place. During each appointment your braces will be tightened to gradually move your teeth into their optimal position. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
How long do you have to wear braces?
Every case is unique. Some people only need to wear braces for 6 months while others may need them for over 2 years. Typically, traditional braces will need to be worn between 18 months to 24 months. A few factors that may contribute to wearing braces for a longer period of time include dental conditions such as malocclusion, gaps, and overlapping teeth. The entire process can take longer if a patient needs to go through a two-phase treatment process to correct issues like crowding or tooth removal.
Are braces painful?
For the most part, braces aren’t painful. When most of our patients get their braces affixed for the first time, they say that they feel some soreness from the pressure being placed on their teeth. This discomfort typically lasts for 1 or 2 days as your teeth adjust to their new position. The metal brackets and wires are also known to cause mild discomfort if they poke into your mouth. Patients can use dental wax to keep sharp objects from protruding into their mouth, cheek, or gums. If you experience severe pain, reach out to us immediately. Braces are meant to help you, not hurt you!
At what age do people get braces?
Adolescents and teenagers typically get braces between the ages of 12 and 18. The reason this time period is so popular is because adult teeth are still developing. This makes it easier for us to mold your teeth into their optimal position. However, anyone can get braces! Braces can not only improve your confidence, but also your dental health. By aligning your teeth we can prevent teeth grinding and fix your bite so that cleaning your teeth is even easier, too. Remember, it’s completely normal to get orthodontics as an adult, and it can even be beneficial for people to wait until after they remove their wisdom teeth.
Can I eat normally with braces?
Braces are meant to add little to no obstruction to your everyday life, but there are certain foods that are not nice to braces. Overly acidic foods should not be eaten to prevent the corrosion of the glue that holds your metal brackets onto your teeth. Sticky and crunchy foods such as caramel and apples should also be eaten sparingly due to the issue of cleaning each individual bracket. So, if you love chips and gummy bears, hold off on chowing down on those until your braces come off.
Are braces covered by my insurance?
When you come in for your complimentary consultation, we’ll verify if your insurance covers the cost of your procedure. If you’re curious before your visit if orthodontic work is covered under your insurance, reach out to your insurance provider to find out.
At MI Smile Journey, our orthodontists will create a custom treatment plan designed to get you the best results in the least amount of time. And best of all, with 2 locations – one in Saginaw & one in Frankenmuth – getting a great smile is closer than you think. Don’t wait. Book your complimentary consultation today by calling 989.792.7056.
