straighter teeth are
straight ahead.
straighter teeth are straight ahead.
discover the right orthodontic option for you
braces options at Comfort Dental
When it comes to achieving a straighter, healthier smile, understanding your braces options is an important first step. At our practice, we offer several orthodontic treatment approaches designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of each patient. Whether you’re looking for the time-tested reliability of traditional braces or prefer a more discreet alternative, we have a solution that can work for you.
Our experienced team is committed to helping you navigate these choices so you can feel confident in your treatment plan. Every smile is different, and we take the time to evaluate your specific concerns, lifestyle, and goals before recommending the best path forward. With advances in orthodontic technology, today’s patients have more options than ever to achieve beautiful, lasting results.
the gold standard: traditional metal braces
When it comes to cost, treatment time, ease of use, and quality of results, traditional metal braces remain the gold standard in orthodontic treatment. These braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into their ideal positions with precision and reliability.
One of the greatest advantages of metal braces is their proven effectiveness across a wide range of cases, from simple to complex. Today’s metal braces are also smaller than ever before, meaning patients typically show much more tooth than metal when they smile. This improvement in design has made traditional braces more comfortable and less noticeable than in previous years.
For patients seeking the most efficient and cost-effective way to straighten their teeth, metal braces are an excellent choice that delivers consistent, predictable outcomes.
a more discreet alternative: clear ceramic braces
For patients who desire a more cosmetic appearance during their orthodontic treatment, clear ceramic braces offer an attractive alternative. These braces function in much the same way as traditional metal braces, but the brackets are made from a tooth-colored ceramic material that blends in with your natural smile.
Ceramic braces are less noticeable than their metal counterparts, making them a popular braces option for teens and adults who feel self-conscious about wearing braces. They can also be an ideal solution for patients with certain metal allergies who cannot wear traditional braces.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Ceramic braces do cost slightly more than metal braces, and in some cases, treatment may take a little longer to achieve the same results. Additionally, the ceramic material can discolor over time, especially for patients who regularly consume coffee, tea, wine, or other staining foods and beverages. With proper care and attention to dietary habits, ceramic braces can provide both effective treatment and improved aesthetics.
nearly invisible treatment: clear aligners
Clear aligners represent a modern approach to straightening teeth without the use of traditional brackets and wires. These custom-made, transparent trays fit snugly over your teeth and gently shift them into alignment over time.
This appliance is removable, which means you can take it out to eat, brush, and floss, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment. They’re also virtually invisible when worn, offering maximum discretion for patients who want to improve their smile without drawing attention to their orthodontic work.
Clear aligners are an excellent option for many patients, though they do require commitment and responsibility to wear them for the recommended number of hours each day. Our team will assess whether clear aligners are suitable for your specific case and help you understand what to expect throughout the process.
minor corrections made simple: active retainers
Not every orthodontic concern requires a full course of treatment with braces. Patients who have one or two teeth slightly out of alignment, or tiny spaces that need to be closed, may be candidates for correction using active retainers.
These custom appliances can accomplish small adjustments without the need for brackets and wires. The process begins with an impression or digital scan taken at our office, which is then sent to a lab for retainer fabrication. Once the lab creates the retainer, it’s returned to our office and carefully adjusted to fit your mouth comfortably.
Patients are monitored over a period of just a few months as the active retainer gradually corrects these minor issues. This approach offers a simple, efficient solution for those who need limited orthodontic intervention.
finding your perfect smile solution
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from your initial consultation to the day your treatment is complete. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality care and a smile they can be proud of.
Braces
Metal vs. Ceramic (Clear)
Braces can be made out of metal or ceramic. With regard to cost, time in treatment, ease of use, and quality of result, there is still no better way to straighten teeth than traditional metal braces. Metal braces are also smaller than ever before, so patients wearing traditional braces are typically showing much more tooth than metal when they smile.
Ceramic braces do offer an alternative for patients who would like a more cosmetic appearance in their braces. They are less noticeable and they can be a good option for patients with certain metal allergies. However, ceramic braces do cost a little more than metal braces, and in some cases can cause treatment to take a little longer than they would have with traditional braces. The ceramic material can also discolor over time for patients who drink a lot of coffee, tea, wine, or other staining foods.
Active Retainers (Small Corrections)
Patients who have one or two teeth slightly out of alignment, or tiny spaces that need to be closed, may not have to correct those issues with braces. In some cases, active retainers can be used to accomplish small corrections. First, the patient would need an impression or a scan taking at the office that is then sent to a lab for retainer fabrication. Once the lab has made the retainer, it is then sent back to the office and adjusted to fit the patient’s mouth. Patients are then seen over a period of just a few months to correct these small problems.