Types Of Braces

Here at Grubaugh Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer a wide range of treatment options to patients of all ages in our DeWitt and Lansing offices. Using the latest in orthodontic techniques along with innovative technology, Dr. Grubaugh can successfully treat a number of orthodontic issues, using a variety of treatment methods. This includes traditional braces, which have gone through quite a transformation over the years. Today’s braces are not only smaller and more aesthetically pleasing, they’re also able to shift the teeth more efficiently, leading to a better orthodontic experience altogether! 

If you’ve been exploring braces treatment recently, you may be wondering what options are available to you. During your initial consultation with Dr. Grubaugh, he’ll perform an orthodontic examination that will help him determine which treatment option is right for you, your smile, and your lifestyle.

In the meantime, let’s look at the types of braces we have available, how they differ, and how each one can give you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!

What you should know about traditional braces

As our most popular treatment option, braces are exceptionally good at fixing complex tooth issues. They can also work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might, which has the potential to shorten your treatment time. Because every case is different, treatment time with metal braces will vary from patient to patient. In general, however, the average can be anywhere from 18-36 months. Fortunately, signs of improvement can often be seen in a short period of time, which can be encouraging as you’re getting used to your new appliance. 

The maintenance involved with traditional braces can be a little tricky in the beginning, but it gets easier over time. A good dental hygiene routine is essential for oral health, particularly during orthodontic treatment. There are a number of accessories designed to make cleaning braces easier, such as water piks to help rinse any hard to reach areas and ortho picks to assist with flossing. We recommend brushing twice a day for at least two minutes each time, and flossing every night before bed.

Some foods will need to be avoided while wearing braces in order to protect them, including anything sticky or crunchy since these can damage the brackets and wires. This won’t last forever, though, and will all be worth it once your braces come off and you see your beautiful new smile!

Patients in braces can expect follow-up visits with us every 4-8 weeks or so throughout the treatment process. During these appointments, Dr. Grubaugh will change the bands that are attached to the brackets, and may replace the wire as well. These check-ups tend to be fairly quick, so you should be able to get back to school or work in no time at all! While there may be some residual soreness after each adjustment, it should be slight and short-lived. These visits are a very important part of the overall treatment plan and help us ensure the best results in the least amount of time. We ask that you do your best not to miss them!

Metal braces

These are the most widely used type of fixed orthodontic appliance, and are typically made of a mix of high-grade stainless steel, nickel, and other metals. These braces consist of bands that wrap around the back molars, with smaller metal brackets cemented to the front surfaces of the other teeth. The archwire is made of thin, springy metal, and runs through the brackets. It’s fixed to the brackets by flexible elastics, metal ties, or another type of clasp. These components apply gentle pressure that moves the teeth into more optimal positions over time.

Metal braces are reliable, effective, and economical. Not only that, but braces today are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable to wear than ever before. They can even be personalized by choosing from differently colored elastics, for patients who love to show off their personality!

Insignia digitally designed custom braces 

Insignia custom braces combine digital treatment with custom brackets and wires that are tailored to each patient’s specific dental anatomy. This allows for precise, predictable, and optimal results. With Insignia’s 3D software, Dr. Grubaugh can even see the end result before treatment begins! It also allows him to view with pinpoint accuracy the curvature and width of the best smile for each individual patient’s facial features and proportions. Unlike off-the-shelf braces and wires, a treatment plan that has been developed with Insignia involves the kind of meticulous detail that provides fast, accurate, and predictable results.

Damon self-ligating braces

The Damon System is a scientifically proven approach to orthodontic treatment where each bracket is self-ligating. This means it has a built-in door that holds the wire passively to the bracket, eliminating the need for additional attachments like ligature or elastic rubber o-ties, and decreasing the amount of force required to move the teeth. This can minimize the need for extractions of permanent teeth, headgear, or high force palatal expanders. 

Damon braces are very precise and effective, and because they work more efficiently, fewer adjustments are required. As a result, appointments tend to be faster and fewer in number. The unique design also moves teeth into their correct positions with less discomfort than traditional braces. Damon smiles are fuller, more natural, and achievable with lighter forces specifically designed to improve the overall result for each patient.

Damon also has a specifically designed bracket for patients who want Damon results but with less noticeable brackets. Damon Clear brackets are manufactured from a crystalline material, and they are clear, durable, and comfortable, as well as stain-resistant!

Find the perfect braces for your smile at Grubaugh Orthodontics

Every smile is unique, and what works for one patient may not be a good choice for another. That’s why Dr. Grubaugh creates a customized treatment plan for every patient he sees! If you’re in DeWitt, Lansing, or the surrounding communities, we’d love to meet you and talk more about how braces can give you a healthier, straighter smile. Get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation!