teenage girl smiling with braces

Finding Your Perfect Smile with Braces in Colorado Springs

Smilebliss emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive treatment plan, which includes selecting the right type of braces for our patient’s unique dental structure and lifestyle.

Whether going for the traditional metal braces or exploring the colorful alternatives, our patients receive personalized care aimed at achieving optimal oral health and a confident smile.

Living with Braces

portrait of blonde girl with bracesWhile braces can help straighten your teeth, wearing them means you get to encounter several adjustments in your daily routine and even adopt new habits.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Pretty much the basics: always brush your teeth. It’s even more important to do so when you have your braces since food gets trapped in the wires, which can cause bacteria to spread.

You should floss regularly as well, with a floss threader or water flosser. This will help remove food particles that get lodged beneath wires and brackets.

You should also visit your orthodontist regularly to ensure your braces are in good condition or if they need to be replaced/re-adjusted.

Dietary Recommendations

  • Foods to Avoid:
    • Chewy foods such as bagels and licorice
    • Hard foods like popcorn and chips
    • Sticky foods such as caramel candies and chewing gum
    • Hard foods like nuts and hard candies
  • Brace-Friendly Foods:
    • Dairy products like cheese and yogurt
    • Soft fruits such as bananas and oranges
    • Grains like pasta and soft-cooked rice
    • Proteins, including tender meats, tofu, and cooked beans

Types of Braces

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces, made of high-grade stainless steel, are the most common type. They consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth and connected by a metal wire. This system is effective for treating complex dental issues.

Clear Aligners

close up of female patient getting alignersClear aligners are transparent, plastic trays custom-fitted to the patient’s teeth. They offer a nearly invisible option for teeth straightening and are removable for eating and cleaning.

Clear Braces

Clear braces function like traditional braces but are made of ceramic or porcelain materials that blend with the natural color of the teeth. They provide an aesthetically pleasing alternative for those conscious about the visibility of their braces.

Benefits of Braces

Braces offer a range of advantages for patients looking to improve their teeth.

Braces are more than a cosmetic solution; they are an investment in one’s dental health and overall well-being. They are primarily used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, which can lead to an enhanced appearance and smile.

Benefits Details
Oral Health Easier cleaning, reduces risk of dental diseases
Bite Correction Reduces jaw stress, improves chewing
Aesthetic Improvement Straight teeth for an appealing smile
Dental Prevention Prevents abnormal wear, chewing issues, and strain on teeth and gums
Speech Improvement Enhances articulation and pronunciation

Clear Aligners vs Braces: Which Should I Choose?

Deciding between clear aligners and traditional braces is a significant choice for anyone considering orthodontic treatment. The decision depends on your lifestyle, orthodontic needs, and personal preferences. But here are some factors that can help you choose:

Feature Clear Aligners Braces Considerations
Aesthetics Virtually invisible aligners. Visible and more prominent
Comfort Smooth plastic without sharp edges.
Hygiene Removable for easy cleaning.
Diet No food restrictions.
Versatility Efficient for complex dental issues. Braces are often better for more complex alignment and bite issues.
Adjustments Tightening process aligns teeth.
Duration Potentially faster treatment for severe cases.
Cost More costly than braces Often more affordable than clear aligners. Budget: Evaluate the cost difference and insurance coverage for both options.
Lifestyle Fit: Clear aligners suit an active lifestyle; less intrusive to daily habits.
Discipline: Clear aligners require strict adherence to wearing them 22 hours a day.

You should consult with a qualified orthodontist to evaluate individual cases and determine the most effective treatment plan. Talk to our orthodontist by calling (719) 579-9773 or visiting us at 4731 Opus Dr., Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906.

Happy Smiles with Smilebliss’ Braces

Choosing Smilebliss for your braces journey ensures not just a transformative dental experience but a path to achieving the happy, confident smile you’ve always dreamed of. Contact us today to learn more!


FAQs

What age is best for braces?

  • The ideal age for braces is typically between 10 and 14 years old, as a child’s head and mouth are still growing, allowing for easier tooth corrections.

How long do braces take?

  • The duration of braces treatment can vary, but on average, it spans from 18 to 24 months. The exact time depends on the complexity of the needed corrections and individual patient differences.

Do braces hurt?

  • Patients may experience mild discomfort during the initial fitting and after adjustments. However, this discomfort usually subsides within a few days.

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