Braces: What You Need To Know

orthodontist atlanta

Welcome!

We are so excited to begin this journey to a smile worth smiling about with you. We understand that orthodontic treatment is an investment, and our team will do all we can to make the process simple and fun. 

If Dr. Stan Cox recommends braces for your treatment, there are are four main types we offer at Brookhaven Orthodontics:

  1. Metal Braces
  2. Invisible Braces
  3. Clear Braces
  4. Clear Aligners

Not all patients qualify for all treatment types, but Dr. Cox may allow you to choose the form of treatment that best fits your needs and lifestyle. Below is a quick overview of each type. You can click the hyperlinks to read more in depth overviews of each one. Treatment time varies with all types of braces and is dependent on each unique case.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment and consist of metal brackets that are glued to the outside of the teeth and connected by metal wires. The position of the brackets steer the teeth in the direction planned by Dr. Stan Cox. This form of treatment is best for severe cases and younger patients as the brackets allow Dr. Cox to make more precise movements over time. The brackets and wires are noticeable, but could be the fastest and most affordable treatment option for your case.

Caring for metal braces does take some practice and time, but it is very important. Not brushing, flossing and eating the right foods could lead to delayed treatment time and stained teeth. In addition, you may have some soreness after getting your braces on and after adjustments. 

metal braces

Clear Braces

We are excited to offer clear braces where the brackets are made of ceramic and are the color of your teeth! The brackets and wires are on the outside of the teeth like metal braces, but they are much more difficult to notice because of the clear ceramic that is used for the brackets. Clear ceramic braces are a great option for adults who may have a more severe case.

However, keeping the clear ceramic brackets clean is very important and there are some foods you need to avoid to keep the brackets from staining and your teeth from getting white spots. 

clear braces

Invisible Braces 

Invisible braces are sometimes called lingual braces, meaning that the brackets are placed on the inside, or tongue side, of your teeth. The brackets are still connected with metal wires, but because they are placed on the inside of your teeth they are practically invisible to others. This form of treatment is a great option for cases where metal braces would be best but the patient does not want the brackets quite so noticeable. We use InBrace Smartwires that are customized for each unique patient.

invisible braces

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are another option for orthodontic treatment and are made of clear plastic. Typically, clear aligners are used for patients with a mild to moderate case. If you qualify for this form of treatment, Dr. Cox will create a custom plan for your aligners. You will go through a series of custom aligners that gradually shift your teeth with each set. They are removable, but only to eat and drink. It is suggested that you wear the aligners at least 22 hours per day for optimal results. We have both Invisalign® and Spark Aligners available.

clear aligners
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