How Much Do Braces Cost in Newington, CT?

Are you or your child in need of braces? One of the most popular types of orthodontic care, braces are quite common. In fact, statistics show that nearly 75% of kids/teens could benefit from having their teeth straightened. 

As braces are recommended for an increasing number of people, many patients and parents are wondering just how much braces are going to cost. Here you’ll learn what to expect for the cost of braces in Newington, CT and the surrounding area. 

The Average Cost of Braces

You can expect to pay somewhere between $3,000 and $7,000 for braces in most cases. This is a very wide range. Where your individual price will fall within that range depends on various factors. 

Factors Affecting the Cost of Braces and Orthodontic Treatment 

Braces are sometimes just one part of ongoing orthodontic treatment that starts in childhood and may continue into adolescence. The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on:

• The type of braces you get. There are a variety of teeth straightening treatments available, such as traditional metal braces, H4 self-ligating braces, clear ceramic braces, Invisalign, and lingual braces. Not all will cost the same amount. Traditional metal braces are usually the least expensive option, while less visible options tend to cost more. 
• The extent of your orthodontic needs. Not every patient has the same extent of orthodontic corrections that need to be made. The more your teeth need to be moved in order to achieve proper alignment, the more expensive your treatment may be. 
• The length of your treatment. When your teeth need more extensive corrections, your treatment time may be longer than average. Your treatment may cost more because it will take a longer time commitment on your orthodontist’s part as well as your own. More appointments and more adjustments will need to be made, which raises the total cost of treatment. 
• The orthodontist you choose. Not all orthodontists charge the same rates for braces and other orthodontic treatment. Some may set higher prices because they have a greater level of expertise and many years of experience. An orthodontist with more experience may be worth the higher price if they are able to correct your teeth more effectively and in a shorter amount of time. 
• The area where you live. Cost of living in your area will affect the price orthodontists in the area charge. Many orthodontists will set comparable prices in order to stay competitive in the community. You’ll tend to find higher prices in larger cities than in smaller towns. 
• Insurance/Financing. Your dental insurance may cover part of the cost of braces for you or your child. If you don’t have insurance coverage, financing can help make the cost more affordable by allowing you to pay in monthly installments. 

A Cost Comparison Between the Different Types of Braces

There are a variety of teeth alignment systems available to patients these days and the cost varies. Here are some of the common types:

• Metal Braces ($4,300-$5,800). Traditional metal braces consist of brackets that adhere to the front teeth and bands that go around the molars. These have been around for many years, but have been improved upon with advancements in technology. 
• Clear Braces ($5,000-$8,000). Clear braces consist of ceramic brackets that attach to the teeth the same way as metal braces, but are less noticeable. They tend to cost a bit more because the material they are made of is more costly. 
• Invisalign ($3,000-$7,000). Invisalign is an alternative to braces consisting of clear plastic aligners that fit over the teeth and are virtually invisible. They can cost as much as metal braces or sometimes more, depending on the factors above. 
• H4 Self-Ligating Braces ($3,500-$8,500). H4 braces are one type of self-ligating braces. With these braces the archwire attaches to the brackets without any wires or rubber bands to hold it in place. The brackets themselves clamp down on the archwire for a strong hold that is often more comfortable. They may be slightly more expensive than traditional braces, but most likely comparable. 
• Lingual Braces ($5,000-$13,000). Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth instead of the front so that they are not visible. They are usually more expensive than traditional braces and may not be effective in treating every patient’s unique needs. 

Are Braces Worth the Cost?

Always. Having properly aligned teeth and a healthy bite pattern will promote a lifetime of healthy teeth, improve your appearance, and help you avoid additional health problems. Crowded or overlapping teeth are harder to keep clean and may result in cavities and other dental problems. A misaligned bite pattern can cause jaw damage and headaches. The benefits of braces definitely outweigh the cost. 

Braces Are Affordable at Greater Hartford Orthodontics

If you’re concerned about the cost of braces, don’t let that prevent you or your child from getting the treatment you need. At Greater Hartford Orthodontics we work with your insurance provider and offer financing options to help make the cost of braces more affordable. 

Call 860-667-8277 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a straighter, healthier smile. 

Invisalign® is quickly becoming as common as braces for orthodontic treatment. For many people, Invisalign® is just as effective as traditional braces for correcting common orthodontic issues from misaligned teeth to overbite. 

Many patients choose Invisalign® because the clear aligners are less obvious than metal or even clear braces. They are also removable, making eating and caring for your teeth much easier during treatment. 

In the past, Invisalign® was sometimes passed up for less pricey traditional braces. However, the cost of Invisalign® is now comparable to metal braces. 

How much does Invisalign® cost in Connecticut and the surrounding area?

Average Cost of Invisalign® 

You can expect to pay somewhere between $3,000 and $7,000 for Invisalign®. The average cost for braces is between $4,000 and $6,000. The two types of orthodontic treatment are very comparable, but what you will actually pay for either option depends on a variety of factors. 

Factors that Determine the Specific Cost of Invisalign®

Each patient’s case is different, which means that not everyone will pay the same amount for Invisalign®. The actual cost is dependent upon the following factors:

• Extent of Treatment Required. The more complex your orthodontic issues are, the more expensive your treatment will be. Invisalign® consists of a series of clear plastic aligners that you wear over your teeth for designated periods of time. Each aligner gradually moves your teeth into a certain position before you switch to the next aligner to continue that movement. The further your teeth need to be shifted, the more aligners you will need to achieve the final result, which raises the total cost of treatment.  
• The Length of Treatment. The more complex your treatment, the longer it will take to align your teeth and correct your orthodontic issues. The more time it takes, the higher the cost will be because of the increased number of aligners and the greater number of appointments you will require with your orthodontist. 
• Your Orthodontist. Speaking of your orthodontist, not everyone will charge the same prices for Invisalign®. An orthodontist with more experience, an established reputation, and a higher tier in the Invisalign® Advantage Program will possibly charge higher rates for Invisalign® as well as orthodontic care in general. But you get what you pay for in terms of experience, so don’t let price be the only factor in choosing an orthodontist. 
• Where You Live. You won’t find the same prices for Invisalign® across the country. It will cost more or less in some areas because it is most reflective of the cost of living. Densely populated areas tend to have higher rates for Invisalign® and other orthodontic treatments than rural areas and small towns. Orthodontists also strive to stay competitive with other practices in the same area, which affects pricing. 
• Your Insurance. If your dental insurance covers orthodontics, typically Invisalign® qualifies for coverage. Insurance plans usually offer a lump sum amount toward orthodontics and very rarely cover the total cost. Medical Savings Accounts or Health Savings Accounts can sometimes be used for orthodontic care as well if your insurance plan includes or allows for either of these. 
• Financing. If you don’t have insurance or if you need additional financial assistance with the remainder of the cost after insurance, financing is always available. Option such as CareCredit or other lines of credit can help you divide the cost into affordable monthly payments. 

Greater Hartford Orthodontics Can Help Make Invisalign® Affordable for You

If the cost of Invisalign® or orthodontic treatment is too much of a financial burden, we at Greater Hartford Orthodontics are willing to work with you to make you or your child’s care more affordable. We believe in the importance of orthodontic care for your dental health and think that no one should be deprived of that care because of the cost. We will discuss financial options with you at the start and along the way as needed. 

Call 860-667-8277 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you or your child achieve a more beautiful smile. 

It is difficult to determine what the typical cost of getting braces is. Estimates suggest that the cost of getting braces ranges from $3,000-$10,000. However, it is unclear which expenses this accounts for. Treatment with braces is highly personalized. Even treatment for two different patients from the same orthodontist could cost a different amount. Here are some factors that can impact the amount that you can expect to pay for braces.

Type of Braces

There are different types of braces that can be used. Each type varies in cost. This includes metal, ceramic, lingual, and clear aligner trays. In most cases, traditional metal braces are the least expensive and lingual braces are the most expensive. However, this can vary based on the person in each case. The best way to determine what each type of braces cost is to ask your orthodontist after they evaluate your teeth.

Amount of Time

The longer the duration of treatment, the more expensive it will be. Every orthodontist appointment comes at a cost, as well as the wires and wax used. If you are wearing braces for four years, this will cost you a lot more money than if you were wearing braces for only one year. Although some types of braces may seem more expensive, if they offer you a shorter treatment duration, it could be less expensive in the long run.

Age

Your age can impact the cost of braces. Generally, it is more expensive to provide orthodontic treatment to adults than children. With kids, everything is still developing and much more malleable. This is not the case with adults. If you recently underwent the process of getting braces for one of your children, it may surprise you that there is a price difference to get braces for yourself.

Location

There can be quite a difference in price based on location. In some cities, orthodontic treatment is simply more expensive than in other places. Some patients opt to work with an orthodontist just outside of their city to receive somewhat of a discount based on the location of the practice. This doesn’t always work, however, and you may end up sacrificing experience and the quality of care by doing this.

Dental Insurance Coverage

Dental insurance coverage can dramatically reduce the cost of getting braces. While not all dental insurance plans offer orthodontic coverage, the plans that do offer its members savings through negotiated prices and discounts. If you suspect that you or a family member may need orthodontic treatment in the future, it might make sense to look around for an applicable dental insurance plan.

Ready to Get Started?

If you think you need braces, call (860) 667-8277 today to make an appointment at Greater Hartford Orthodontics. We are happy to help you on your journey to get the smile that you deserve.

When it comes to orthodontics, every patient has different needs. Not all treatments are appropriate for everyone. Orthodontic services are customized based on the specific way each patient’s teeth need to be moved in order to be in proper alignment. That means that some patients may only require braces on their bottom teeth. 

That may seem unusual, and it is not the typical method for most patients (which is a full set of braces on the top and bottom). But it is appropriate and effective for patients whose bottom teeth need straightening but whose top teeth do not.

Why Get Braces On the Bottom Only?

In some cases a patient only has crowding or misaligned teeth on the bottom jaw but not the top. The top teeth could be straight while the bottom teeth are crowded in behind the top teeth, requiring straightening. Misaligned bottom teeth could also cause an underbite (where the top teeth go behind the bottom teeth when the patient bites down) or a crossbite (where some teeth from the top go behind the bottom or vice versa when the patient bites down). Realigning just the bottom teeth could correct these issues.

What are the Potential Problems With This Method?

There’s a possibility that once the bottom teeth are straightened, the bite may be out of alignment. Sometimes the bottom teeth are crowded in order to fit behind the top teeth when the patient bites down. Once those bottom teeth are straightened, they may no longer fit under the top teeth, resulting in an underbite. In order to correct the bite, it may be necessary to get braces on the top teeth as well so that both the top and bottom teeth can be realigned at the same time for best results.

What Types of Braces Can Be Used on the Bottom Teeth?

One piece of good news is that getting braces on just the bottom teeth does not limit your options for orthodontic treatments. Your choices still include:

• Metal Braces. Traditional metal braces are still believed to be the most effective at aligning teeth and bite patterns. New technology has made metal brackets smaller and more comfortable, such as H4 Braces that are self-ligating brackets, meaning they do not require metal ties or elastics to attach the crosswire to the brackets. 
• Clear Braces. Ceramic braces are designed to be clear so that they are less obvious. Ceramic brackets are also tie-less like H4 Braces and can also be used on bottom teeth only. 
• Invisalign. Invisalign, a popular alternative to braces, uses clear plastic aligners that fit over teeth and gradually shift them into proper alignment. This method can also be used for just the bottom teeth if the top teeth do not need to be straightened. 
• Lingual Braces. Lingual braces are metal but fit behind teeth so that they are not readily visible. This is an option for some patients whose teeth can be shifted into proper alignment from behind. When used behind the bottom teeth only, they are almost completely unnoticeable.

Following your Orthodontist’s Advice is Always Best

Even if you think you only need braces on your bottom teeth, there may be less obvious reasons that top teeth braces would also be beneficial. Orthodontists are experts in the alignment of teeth and bite patterns and may notice subtle issues that are not obvious, but could be a problem if not corrected. Full-mouth treatment, no matter what type of treatment you choose, may be the best option to ensure your teeth and bite are properly aligned.

Why Visit Greater Hartford Orthodontics?

The experts at Greater Hartford Orthodontics specialize in treating both children and adults. For some, proper alignment of teeth requires treatment starting in childhood and continuing into the teenage years and even early adulthood to complete the process. The warm and caring staff at Greater Hartford Orthodontics will be there throughout your journey and will rejoice with you when your smile is complete. 

Call (860) 667-8277 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment with Greater Hartford Orthodontics.

Getting braces as an adult can be stressful enough, but it can be even more stressful if you need them while you are pregnant. Pregnancy can change your dental health significantly, but that does not mean that you will need braces or can’t get them if you need them. There are just a few things that you need to focus on during the process. Here is how you can get braces during pregnancy.

Caught Up on Dental Health

Regardless of when you get braces, you need to be caught up on dental health first. You cannot put braces on teeth that have problems. Many of the dental conditions that disqualify you from getting braces are conditions that weaken the strength and stability of your teeth. For example, you can’t put braces on a cavity since it won’t be able to hold up to the strain of braces. Consult your dentist to see if there is anything that you need to do to be ready for braces.

Pregnancy Causes Gum Inflammation

During pregnancy, your gums will be inflamed. This is a normal part of pregnancy but can be uncomfortable. It can also affect your eligibility for braces. Inflamed gums often recede from the gum line, which can expose the roots of your teeth if your gums move too much. It can also make you more susceptible to cavities and plaque buildup closer to your roots. Your dentist can help you manage the discomfort from gum inflammation.

More Difficult to Clean Teeth

Cleaning your teeth while pregnant is more difficult. Because your body chemistry is changing, your teeth are undergoing changes too. Because of this, your teeth may see increased wear due to many changes including reduced calcium. This makes your teeth harder to clean since your teeth are wearing at a higher rate. However, it is still possible to get a good cleaning with the proper tools and experience.

Safety of Dental X-Rays

Dental x-rays are often used to find potential problems with your teeth that are hard to see. However, x-rays are not advisable during pregnancy. However, it is possible to have dental x-rays done while pregnant. It just requires heightened protections. Your dentist will have you wear extra lead padding, as well as place the padding in a different position. That way, you and your baby will be protected from the radiation while you get the x-rays that you need.

Cravings and Dietary Restrictions

You will also have to deal with cravings and dietary restrictions while pregnant. This can be a bit of a challenge if you add in braces since there will be more restrictions on what you can eat. If you have braces, eating the wrong things can mess with your dental health or result in painful repairs to your braces if they break. Only get braces if you are sure that you can fight cravings for foods that can hurt your dental health during pregnancy.

Most Pregnant Women Can Safely Use Braces

The truth is that most pregnant women can safely use braces. There are a few problems that arise that cannot be overcome with the help of a skilled dentist. However, it is important to work with your dentist before you get braces to ensure that you are ready for them. Once they are on, there is no going back. So, make sure that you have the support that you need to get through it.

If you think you need braces, or you are having dental health problems while you are pregnant, call (860) 667-8277 today to make an appointment at Greater Hartford Orthodontics.

Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult

Straighter Teeth. The ultimate goal of orthodontics is to straighten teeth and properly align the bite. Teeth don’t always naturally come in straight and perfect for everyone. In fact, more people need orthodontic intervention than those that don’t.

Improved Appearance. Having straighter teeth can help you feel more confident about your smile. You may be more likely to smile throughout your daily life and in photos. Even those with no major orthodontic concerns may still benefit from the aesthetic improvement braces offer.

Better Oral Health. Straight teeth not only look better, but will also be healthier. When your bite doesn’t align properly or your teeth are not in the correct places they can experience a greater amount of wear and tear. As you chew you could be doing extensive damage to your teeth. Teeth that are turned or crowded against other teeth can be harder to keep clean and are more susceptible to decay.

Lasting Results. Once your teeth are in proper alignment and your braces are removed, all that is required to keep them aligned is to wear retainers every night. As long as you follow your orthodontist’s instructions you should see results that will last for the rest of your life.

Would you like to have straighter teeth? Have you been considering getting braces, but aren’t sure if it’s the right choice for you?

Getting braces as an adult can be a difficult decision, but there are many benefits. The field of orthodontics has come a long way over the years, and it’s possible you may have some misconceptions about adult braces. Here are some of the common concerns that some people have about braces and some possible solutions to help alleviate those concerns.

• Concern: Braces are unattractive. One of the biggest reasons adults give for not wanting to get braces is that they are worried about how they will look. This is an understandable concern.
• Solution: There are more attractive options. Clear ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces and can serve the same purpose in the same amount of time. Invisalign® is a system for straightening teeth using completely clear plastic aligners, which are similar to retainers that fit over your teeth. Invisalign® is typically comparable in price to traditional braces, but may take a few months longer to complete their job.

•  Concern: Braces are expensive. Many people think they cannot afford braces or simply don’t want to pay for them.
•  Solution: Insurance and payment plans can help. Some dental insurance plans will cover all or some of the cost of braces. If not, orthodontists offer payment plans to spread the cost out over time in order to make it more affordable. Financing options are also available for medical or related needs.

•  Concern: Braces are painful. You may have heard that braces make your teeth hurt and that they can irritate the cheeks, tongue, and inside of the lips.
• Solution: New technology has reduced pain. Braces have come a long way in design so that they are not as rough and painful as they used to be. One alternative option is Invisalign®, which doesn’t use any metal or hard brackets on teeth. Invisalign® uses clear aligners to move teeth more gradually so that there is less pain.

• Concern: Braces have to be worn for a long time. You may have heard that braces take many years to straighten teeth and you’re not sure you want to commit to something that long-term.
• Solution: The time that each patient will be required to wear braces varies. For adults it can sometimes take longer than it does for children to get the teeth into proper alignment. Either way, the timeframe you will wear your braces typically ranges from one to three years. After the orthodontist evaluates your teeth, he can give you a general idea of the timeframe of your treatment. The type of treatment you choose can also affect the length of treatment. But, in the grand scheme of things, what’s a few years compared to a lifetime of straight, healthy teeth? The benefits outweigh the cost.

Orthodontics for All Ages

Greater Hartford Orthodontics serves patients of all ages from children to adults. Dr. Cos and staff provide a full range of services to address a wide variety of different orthodontic needs. Dr. Cos has the knowledge and expertise to evaluate each patient’s teeth and bite pattern to design an individualized course of treatment to correct the specific issues of that patient.

Call (860) 667-8277 today to make an appointment at Greater Hartford Orthodontics or click here to contact us.

While there are numerous solutions for straightening your teeth, metal braces are still the most popular choice. Yet many people are nervous about getting braces, as they do not know exactly what to expect. Here are the top 7 braces questions and answers.

1. What Are My Options?

Invisalign, billed as “the clear alternative to braces,” is one of the most common options. Other possibilities include self-ligating braces and clear braces. We will carefully evaluate your mouth and make a professional recommendation, but in many cases, which solution to choose is up to you.

2. At What Age Should My Child Get Braces?

We recommend that all children have an early orthodontics screening at seven years of age. This lets us evaluate the emerging teeth and perform any needed preventive treatments to give the teeth the best chance of coming in straight. Despite these preventive measures, though, children may still need braces. There is no “perfect age,” as each child is unique. For most kids, though, braces are placed between the ages of 10 and 14, depending on growth and tooth eruption rates.

3. How Long Does Treatment Last?

Braces treatment normally lasts from one to three years depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issues. You can minimize your treatment length by carefully following all instructions, wearing all devices as directed, keeping all appointments, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene.

4. Should Adults Get Braces?

Adults comprise approximately 20% of all braces wearers. As long as your teeth are healthy, braces can correct problems with your bite and give you decades of beautiful, straight teeth that are easy to clean.

5. Are Braces Just for Looks?

Most people who choose braces are primarily seeking a more aesthetic smile, but there are also important oral health reasons to get braces. A problematic bite can cause jaw pain when chewing and increase the risk for TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). Crooked or gapping teeth can also be difficult to keep clean, raising your risk for gum disease and tooth decay. Braces correct these problems, improving your oral health.

6. Are Braces as Bad as They Used to Be?

Thanks to new technology, braces have evolved quickly over the past few years. Today’s metal brackets are far smaller than they once were, and brackets are now available in clear, tooth-color, and even bold fashion colors. Smart wires and brackets make treatment more efficient, more comfortable, and faster, while heat-activated wires reduce the pain of adjustments.

7. How Can I Calm My Child’s Fear of Getting Braces?

It’s tough to be a kid, and even tougher to be a kid with braces. Let your child have the time she needs to warm up to the idea. Gently remind her that many kids wear braces and that this is a short-term way to gain significant benefits for the rest of her life. If she knows anyone with braces, encourage her to ask lots of questions. Like adults, kids do best when they have plenty of information and support.

Ready to Get Started?

If you need braces or Invisalign in the Greater Hartford area, contact Greater Hartford Orthodontics today at 860-667-8277 to schedule your initial evaluation.

Retainers are an important part of orthodontic treatment. They are often worn after the patient has his or her braces removed. Without retainers, your all of the work that you put into your braces may be ruined. Here is what you should know about retainers after braces.

What Do Retainers Do?

Retainers hold the position of your teeth after braces are removed. Braces apply a lot of pressure to move your teeth into the proper position. Once they are removed, your teeth could quickly spread back to where they were without assistance. Retainers are used to hold your teeth where your braces put them, which requires less pressure than your braces used. Retainers are also temporary and can be removed without special equipment.

Why Retainers Matter

The process of straightening your teeth involves applying an immense amount of pressure on your teeth so they move into position and your gums start to grow around them to support them. That pressure has to be relieved at some point, which is when your braces are removed. Your mouth needs time to grow enough support for your teeth to keep them in place, which means you will need to keep the pressure on them. Otherwise, your teeth will drift apart.

Retainers are important because they allow your teeth to permanently set in the right position. Under the pressure that your braces create, they can’t fully heal in place. By removing that pressure your teeth can adjust and heal fully. The retainer just makes sure that they are where they need to be during the final healing process.

Correct Other Issues

Retainers also help correct a range of other issues. For example, children with speech impediments have been able to address them by wearing retainers. Retainers change the overall shape of your mouth and you have to learn how to talk with them in. Retainers can also help with breathing problems as they apply pressure to the soft palate, which can change the way that you breathe.

Time Limits

Retainers are often worn for hours each day, and work best when those hours are continuous. In most cases, dentists recommend wearing a retainer overnight. This method makes sense since you will likely be asleep for many hours at a time. However, it is possible and can be recommended that you wear your retainer during the day as well. It is important to stick to your dentist’s recommendations. Any deviation from it could lead to problems with your teeth later.

Care Instructions

While most retainers are slightly different, they all have similar care instructions. The care instructions are very similar to braces, so the adjustment is pretty easy. They come with a case to keep it in when you are not using it. You have to brush your retainer daily to keep it clean. You also have to avoid certain drinks when it is in, and you should remove it when you eat. If you take good care of it, it will last you the entire time that you need it.

If you need a quality retainer, reach out to a qualified dentist who can help you get fitted for one. Proper care and maintenance will have your teeth looking great and reduce the need for a retainer. If you need braces or Invisalign in the Greater Hartford area, contact Greater Hartford Orthodontics today at 860-667-8277 to schedule your initial evaluation.

Although many people are now turning to Invisalign or other solutions such as clear or lingual braces, metal braces remain tremendously popular. Yet you may wonder exactly what getting braces will be like. Here is what you should know.

The Right Age for Braces

We recommend an initial orthodontics screening around your child’s 7th birthday. This lets us evaluate the teeth as they begin to emerge and take preventive measures to help them come in straight. In many cases, this early intervention is enough, but other kids will still need braces. Depending on individual tooth eruption and growth rate, we typically place braces when the child is between 10 and 14 years old.

It is never too late for braces, though, as long as you have healthy teeth. We have placed lots of braces on older teenagers and adults. In fact, roughly 20% of all people who wear braces are adults. Braces can correct problems with your bite and improve your smile, no matter how long ago your permanent teeth came in.

Reasons for Braces

Aesthetic issues are among the top reasons that people choose to get braces. There is certainly nothing wrong with wanting to improve the look of your smile. Along with this, though, straight teeth are also vital for your oral health. Misaligned teeth can cause jaw pain and can even lead to TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), which can be bad enough to interfere with chewing. In addition, straight teeth are much easier to clean, lowering your risk for tooth decay and gum disease.

Treatment Length

You or your child might wear braces for as little as one year or as long as three years, depending on individual needs. To minimize your length of treatment, be sure to keep all appointments, wear all devices as directed, and follow a perfect oral hygiene routine. Still, since every mouth is unique, your length of treatment could vary significantly from that of your friend.

Modern Braces

Braces can never be considered pleasant, but advances in orthodontic technology have vastly improved the braces experience in the past few years. Modern metal brackets are far smaller than they once were, and you can get clear or tooth colored brackets, or even brackets in fashion colors, if desired. Heat-activated wires are gentler on teeth, making adjustments far less painful than they used to be. Smart brackets and wires are more comfortable and more efficient, and they may shorten the total length of treatment.

Calming Kids’ Fears

It’s tough to be a preteen or a teenager, and some kids panic at the thought of getting braces. Give your child plenty of time to adapt to the idea rather than pushing to start treatment right away. Remind her that many kids wear braces, and that treatment is a short-term way to gain benefits that will last a lifetime. If your child knows someone who already wears braces, encourage her to ask lots of questions. Like adults, children generally adapt better when they have plenty of information to rely on.

Ready to Get Started?

If you need braces or Invisalign in the Greater Hartford area, contact Greater Hartford Orthodontics today at 860-667-8277 to schedule your initial evaluation.