Braces

What Are the Stages of Braces?

Braces aren’t just for teens anymore! There are three main phases in which we place braces:

• Phase 1 braces are for youngsters usually between ages 6 and 9, and it’s meant to reduce orthodontic treatment time in adolescence. This phase focuses on correcting bite and jaw-development issues.
• Phase 2 treatment is what we typically imagine of when we think of braces: the teenage orthodontic rite of passage meant to straighten crooked teeth.
• Adult braces are increasingly common for lots of reasons: Maybe you should have had braces when you were younger but didn’t. Maybe you did have them but didn’t wear your retainer, and teeth have migrated again. Or you might be addressing an entirely new issue such as dental trauma or a narrow palate.

Types of Braces

We offer our patients a couple of different choices for braces:

• Metal braces: These are your standard braces, the ones that lots of your friends–and maybe even you–had in high school. The brackets are made of metal and are silver in color.
• Ceramic braces: This type of braces work just like the metal ones, but they’re less visible. The brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic. One drawback is that they may not be as durable as metal braces.

How Are Braces Put On?

Our experienced orthodontist will attach metal or ceramic brackets to the front of the affected teeth and then use elastic bands to connect orthodontic wires to them. The wires facilitate tooth movement and are changed out frequently during routine checkups at our practice.

What Is It Like Having Braces?

Once the new braces are in place, it’s likely that patients will experience some sensitivity and irritation at first as the inside of their mouth adjusts and “toughens up” to the addition. Additionally, there is always a day or two of tenderness after each adjustment—nothing a couple of NSAIDs can’t handle. Overall braces are much more comfortable than those of times passed.

As far as appearance is concerned, today’s braces are smaller and sleeker than ever before. Plus, you (or your child) can customize with colored elastic bands. Many adults choose clear elastic bands, but there are no rules!

Paying for Braces

Many dental insurance plans cover at least a part of braces treatment. We also accept LendingPoint and CareCredit to help our patients and their families spread out what can otherwise be a large sum to pay at once.

Braces in NYC Without Referrals

Tribeca Dental Studio is the best choice for child, teen, or adult braces in NYC. As a multi-specialty practice, we can almost always take care of everything our patients need right here in our office. Anyone who’s had to bounce around to two or three dental or medical practices for the course of a single treatment can appreciate the value of having all care under one roof! Book an appointment today to start a conversation about getting your best smile!