Whether you’re a parent exploring orthodontic options for your child or an adult who’s finally ready to invest in a straighter smile, braces in Boerne offer a transformative solution for your whole families’ smiles. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about braces, including who’s a good candidate, what treatments are available, and how to manage financing.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Braces?
Are you worried that you or your child might not qualify for braces? In reality, most people with alignment issues can benefit from treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists even suggests children get their first orthodontic check-up by age seven to allow us to detect issues early that might be easier to address during growth spurts.
Common Reasons for Braces
- Crooked or Crowded Teeth: Overlapping teeth or limited space can be resolved with orthodontic treatment.
- Overbite or Underbite: Adjusting the jaw alignment can improve both appearance and function.
- Spacing Issues: Gaps between teeth can be closed, enhancing the smile’s uniformity.
- Crossbite: Correcting a crossbite can prevent uneven tooth wear and jaw discomfort.
When Kids Need Braces
Kids as young as seven can show early signs that braces might be necessary. These indicators include:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Crowded front teeth
- Prolonged thumb-sucking habits
- Difficulty chewing or biting
Even if you miss the age seven window, orthodontic treatment can still be effective during the teen years. The jaw is still developing, which makes it simpler to guide your child’s teeth into a favorable position.
When Teens Need Braces
While some orthodontic issues are best addressed in younger children, many teens also find this to be the ideal time for treatment. By adolescence, most permanent teeth have erupted, allowing your orthodontist to see exactly how your teeth and jaw are aligning. Additionally, growth spurts in the teen years can expedite certain corrections, potentially shortening overall treatment time.
Signs your teen may need braces include:
- Noticeable crowding or spacing
- Ongoing difficulty with chewing or biting
- Persistent misalignment issues such as overbite or underbite
- Self-consciousness about their smile
Because teens are often more conscious of their appearance, they may prefer less noticeable options like clear braces or clear aligners. The good news is that modern orthodontics provides a range of discreet solutions, so your teen can feel confident throughout treatment.
Braces for Adults
It’s never too late to achieve a straighter smile. In fact, one in every 3-5 orthodontic patients is an adult! Many adults opt for metal braces, clear braces, or even clear aligners to correct misalignment. With modern advancements, you have more discreet and convenient treatment options than ever before.
How Braces Work: What to Expect
Braces are designed to apply gentle yet continuous pressure to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Consultation & Exam: Dr. Vo examines your teeth, jaw, and bite. They may use X-rays or digital scans to get a clearer picture.
- Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, a customized plan is formulated, detailing how long you’ll need braces and what results you can expect.
- Placement of Brackets & Wires: Metal or ceramic brackets are bonded to each tooth, connected by an archwire that guides the teeth’s movement.
- Adjustments: You’ll visit Dr. Vo periodically for adjustments to make sure you’re progressing well.
- Removal & Retainer: Once your teeth are in their ideal positions, the braces come off. You’ll receive a retainer to keep your new smile in place.
Initial soreness is common, but most people adapt quickly to the sensation of wearing braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help manage any initial discomfort.
Alternative Orthodontic Treatments
While metal braces remain a tried-and-true solution, they’re not your only option. When considering braces in Boerne, you can also explore these alternatives:
Clear Braces
Also known as ceramic braces, these function similarly to metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored brackets. They’re less noticeable, making them popular among adults or older teens seeking a more discreet approach.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners have gained popularity for their removability and near-invisibility. You wear a series of plastic trays that gradually move your teeth. Clear aligners are:
- Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
- Less obvious than traditional braces
- Often more comfortable due to lack of brackets or wires
However, they require discipline. You’ll need to wear them about 22 hours a day to see optimal results.
InBrace Hidden Braces
InBrace is another modern option where the bracket system is placed behind your teeth, making them virtually invisible. By hiding the hardware on the tongue side of your teeth, you can get the results of traditional braces without the noticeable wires.
Financing & Special Offers
Worried about the cost of braces in Boerne? Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment, but flexible financing options can make it more manageable.
Insurance & Financing Options
Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for braces, especially for dependents. Be sure to check your individual policy to see what’s included. Beyond insurance, Complete Dental Studio offers payment plans to help you spread out the cost of treatment.
- CareCredit & Sunbit: At Complete Dental Studio in Boerne, we gladly accept CareCredit and Sunbit as payment options. Numerous patients favor these convenient third-party solutions, whether they have dental insurance or not.
- Insurance: We accept a wide range of dental insurance policies, including Aetna, Ameritas, Delta Dental, Dental Select, Dentemax, GEHA, Guardian, Lincoln Financial, MetLife, Principal, & VA Vouchers.
- Special Offers: We offer ways to save on treatment, including our $199 down payment + free whitening + low monthly payment option!
FAQs About Braces in Boerne
How long do I have to wear braces?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case. On average, people wear braces for 18 to 24 months, but it could be shorter or longer depending on your unique treatment plan.
Are metal braces more effective than clear aligners?
Effectiveness depends on the specific alignment issues. Metal braces may be better for severe cases, while clear aligners are often sufficient for milder to moderate corrections.
Do braces hurt?
While braces don’t hurt, you might feel pressure or discomfort, especially after adjustments. This usually subsides within a few days.
Can adults get braces?
Absolutely! Adult orthodontics is becoming increasingly common. There’s no upper age limit for a healthier, more aligned smile.
Why Choose Complete Dental Studio for Braces in Boerne
Choosing an orthodontist is a major decision that can affect your smile for years to come. At Complete Dental Studio, we pride ourselves on offering:
- Comprehensive Care: From kids to adults, we tailor treatments to each patient’s unique needs.
- Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art tools for precise diagnostics and efficient treatment.
- Patient-Focused Approach: Our goal is to keep you informed, comfortable, and excited about your journey to straighter teeth.
- Multiple Options: Whether you want metal braces, clear braces, clear aligners, or InBrace hidden braces, we can help you find the perfect fit.
Ready to Get Started?
Your journey to a more beautiful, functional smile is just a phone call away. Schedule your free consultation at Complete Dental Studio today to learn more about our braces, financing options, and any special offers we’re currently running. Whether you’re 7 or 70, it’s never too late to enjoy the benefits of a perfectly aligned smile!
