Braces In Virginia For Kids, Teens & Adults
Start Smiling Sooner
Types Of Braces
A Modern Approach To A Traditional Treatment
There are many different orthodontic treatments available to patients nowadays. Traditional metal braces are widely used and have a high success rate for treating malocclusions and straightening teeth. Metal braces were the norm for many years, but today there are other options for straightening teeth as well. Those looking for a discreet orthodontic option frequently select ceramic braces.
There’s no need to second-guess yourself if you’re torn between metal and clear braces if the goal is a straighter smile and better dental health. If you want advice regarding what orthodontic treatment might be best for you, contact Horsey Orthodontics.
We are happy to give a range of orthodontic options, from the more common metal braces to the less obvious transparent ones. Our highly trained staff and state-of-the-art technology offer only the most trustworthy, tried-and-true treatments because we think everyone should have access to a beautiful, healthy smile. No matter how specific your needs are, you can count on us to deliver. If you’re interested in our services and would like to request a free consultation, please give us a call.
Traditional Metal
For decades, metal braces have been the gold standard in orthodontic care. These conventional braces have been effectively used to realign teeth for decades. Metal braces, made of high-quality stainless steel, are sturdy yet lightweight and can offer precise control over the movement of teeth. Because of the corrosion-resistant nature of the materials used, they are able to survive normal use without deforming or breaking. Plus, they are versatile and adaptable.
Metal braces employ orthodontic brackets and archwires to apply targeted pressure to individual teeth, gradually shifting them into position. When it comes down to it, metal braces have stood the test of time and are a good option if you’re looking for effective orthodontic treatment.
Ceramic
Ceramic brackets, like traditional metal brackets, are less visible since they are constructed of tooth-colored composite and blend in with your teeth. We use Clarity Advanced Ceramic Brackets at our office because they offer the best combination of aesthetics, performance, and comfort. Clarity Advanced Ceramic Brackets are also noted for their durability, and they offer a practical and aesthetically pleasing orthodontic option for people who lead an active lifestyle. You can learn more about our ceramic braces by contacting our office.
Iconix Brackets
Iconix champagne gold brackets are a great option if you’re looking to make a statement. Champagne gold plating adds a touch of elegance to these braces, which are composed of high-quality stainless steel. The champagne gold hue of the brackets is slightly lighter than traditional metal, making them appear softer and more elegant.
Brackets, whether they be metal or gold-plated, serve the same purpose; the color variation is purely aesthetic. You get to pick the shade and design that speaks to you the most. Plus, you can choose the color of the rubber bands to add a personal touch.
Braces For Kids
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, however, there are many added benefits to having orthodontic treatment early. Early orthodontic treatment can help reduce the chances of needing more complicated surgical dental treatment later. It is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) that children have an orthodontic evaluation no later than 7 years old.
At age 7, your child’s first permanent molars and incisors will have erupted which will allow us to properly detect irregular growth patterns. When the jaw is still forming, it is more malleable, making early orthodontics an effective solution for many. Treatment for problems such as crossbite or overbite may require more advanced and more costly correction if approached later in life.
Even if orthodontic treatment is not immediately necessary at this early age, an orthodontic evaluation will allow the orthodontist to monitor and guide the growth of the jaw and teeth. This will allow the doctor to identify the best time for treating your child.
Early orthodontic treatment will:
- Prevent overcrowding by creating room for unerupted teeth
- Create facial symmetry by guiding jaw growth
- Reduce the need for teeth removal
- Reduce treatment time with braces
Contact our office to request a free consultation and evaluation for your child.
Braces For Teens
Why Orthodontic Treatment For Teens Matters
Teenagers who have dental problems such as crowding, spacing, overbites, or underbites might benefit greatly from wearing braces. In addition to making a teen’s grin more presentable, braces provide various other benefits.
Most of the permanent teeth will have erupted by this point, making this a prime time for treatment. Dr. Horsey can then more accurately evaluate the situation and determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary. Misalignments can lead to serious health problems, including gum disease and jaw discomfort, both of which can be avoided with braces. It also helps avoid the emergence of more significant issues down the road. Teens can have healthy teeth and a beautiful smile for life if they get orthodontic treatment when they are young.
Get in touch with us right away if your teen is ready for braces in Henrico or Midlothian, VA. We provide same-day consults and starts, so you can get your teen started on their treatment.
What To Expect With Life With Braces
Getting braces is not as scary as it probably seems. Learning how to take care of your braces and making some minor tweaks to your typical eating habits may make life with braces surprisingly simple.
Keeping your braces clean is the most fundamental and crucial step in wearing them. It’s recommended that you clean and floss your teeth twice a day. Use a fluoride mouthwash frequently and clean thoroughly around your braces, wires, and bands. Plaque, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease, forms when food particles remain lodged between teeth and along gum lines.
Many of your favorite foods may be more difficult to eat once you have braces, but don’t panic; there are still plenty of tasty options that won’t harm your braces or cause you discomfort. You may still order tasty dishes like macaroni and cheese, seafood, dessert, and delicate cuts of meat. You should avoid anything that is tough to chew. Nothing sticky like caramel or gum, and no hard sweets, popcorn, or crispy chips. It’s not enjoyable to forgo certain meals while wearing braces, but you’ll be glad you did when you can finally show off your beautiful new smile!
Braces For Adults
Your Guide To Orthodontics For Adults
Did you know that 20 percent of all individuals older than 21 are getting braces right now? It’s a frequent misunderstanding that braces are just for kids and teenagers and that it’s too late to have them after that. Our friendly team is here to reassure you that it is never too late to get braces. Straightening your teeth with braces is a terrific way to improve your smile. However, they improve both oral and general health. The gaps and crevices between teeth are easier to clean when teeth are properly aligned. Teeth cleaning is simplified with straighter teeth. Furthermore, if you are concerned about your looks, there have been numerous developments in braces and orthodontic treatment over the last decades, resulting in solutions that tend to be subtle and simple.
Because the jaw and teeth are still developing, orthodontists strongly recommend taking advantage of treatment at a young age, which may explain why more teenagers and children are receiving braces. This is simply due to the way that our teeth, mouths, and jaws develop–it is biologically easier to treat younger patients. That being said, we strongly believe it’s never too late to get help. There are still plenty of treatment options open to adults. Dr. Horsey at Horsey Orthodontics can tailor a treatment plan to your needs with your feedback.
It’s never too late to get started on orthodontic care if you’ve been putting it off. Request a free consultation for braces for adults in Midlothian or Henrico or at our adult-only office in Richmond, VA.
Top Reasons To Get Braces As An Adult
There are some myths about obtaining braces that may be holding you back, but there are several reasons to acquire braces as an adult in Midlothian, Henrico, and Richmond, VA.
There Are Several Options Available
Adults in customer-facing roles may have been reluctant to get braces when only traditional choices were available. These days, more discrete options for treatment are available, including Invisalign and ceramic braces. Invisalign is a clear-aligner device that is almost undetectable once used. Ceramic braces are just like metal braces, but the brackets are made of transparent ceramic, so they won’t stand out when you smile.
Health Advantages
In addition to improving your appearance, braces provide several health benefits. It’s harder to keep your teeth clean and in good shape when they’re crooked, crowded, or otherwise out of place. The more inaccessible areas of your teeth may be harboring plaque and germs. With braces, however, your teeth will be straightened, allowing you to clean them more effectively.
Affordability of Care
Many people assume they can’t afford braces, but the truth is that the price is far lower than most people imagine. You may be shocked to learn that the typical price of braces is between $5,000 and $7,000. However, Horsey Orthodontics is committed to ensuring that orthodontic treatment is accessible to those who need it by providing zero-interest payment plans and low down payments. For additional information, please get in touch with us.
The Treatment Will Not Last Forever
Concerns have also been raised about the duration of treatment. Adults often need to wear braces for a total of 18 to 26 months. The duration of treatment will be proportional to the degree of your illness. However, the time spent in braces is minimal compared to the years spent proudly flashing your new smile.
If you’re considering braces as an adult, our Richmond office is an adult-only practice, so you can feel comfortable in a professional environment surrounded by patients in situations much like your own.
Braces FAQ
You’ll be pleased to know that the list of foods you can eat is much longer than the list of foods you should avoid. Foods you should avoid include anything sticky, such as gum or caramels, hard candies, and chewy foods, such as tough meats. These foods can get stuck in your braces, break off brackets, and cause other damage.
There are, however, plenty of foods you can enjoy. This includes soft foods and fruits like bread, fruit, and cooked vegetables. There are also plenty of dairy products like cottage cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Some other assorted items you can eat include seafood, soup, eggs, tortillas, and more!
You’ll be pleased to know that the list of foods you can eat is much longer than the list of foods you should avoid. Foods you should avoid include anything sticky, such as gum or caramels, hard candies, and chewy foods, such as tough meats. These foods can get stuck in your braces, break off brackets, and cause other damage.
There are, however, plenty of foods you can enjoy. This includes soft foods and fruits like bread, fruit, and cooked vegetables. There are also plenty of dairy products like cottage cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. Some other assorted items you can eat include seafood, soup, eggs, tortillas, and more!
Plaque and bacteria may cause serious damage to your teeth and gums; that’s why it’s crucial that you keep your braces clean and cared for. The best approach to maintaining a clean orthodontic appliance is by regular and thorough brushing and flossing. After eating, you ought to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly, even in the spaces created by your braces. Plaque buildup, which can lead to gum irritation or deterioration, can be removed using this method. Use an interdental toothbrush to clean in between your teeth and under your braces to avoid plaque and tartar buildup. You can get orthodontic cleaning instruments if you’re having problems brushing and flossing normally because of your braces. You can keep your teeth and gums healthy while wearing braces if you take good care of them and schedule regular appointments with the dentist and our office.
Although the actual act of having braces put on and tightened is usually painless, some initial discomfort is to be expected. There may be some temporary discomfort after getting braces installed or adjusted, but this should go away within a few days. Also, some individuals get mouth sores from the brackets and wires rubbing against their teeth, be sure to use dental wax to help with that. All of our patients, with the right attention to cleanliness and care, should have a positive experience while wearing braces. If you continue to feel pain or discomfort.
Yes, regular dental checkups are still required, even when wearing braces. You need to see your dentist regularly while wearing braces to make sure they are not irritating your gums or teeth and are doing their job correctly. Also, your dentist can look for cavities and other indicators of tooth degradation and give you tips on how to practice excellent oral hygiene while you have braces on.
