If you are looking to improve the look and impact of your smile, then age is nothing but a number! The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven, but orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens. In fact, one in every five orthodontic patients are over the age of 21! Whether you are considering treatment for yourself, or your child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist!

Braces use metal brackets and wires to straighten teeth, while Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners. Braces are often more effective for complex cases, whereas Invisalign offers a more discreet option and is usually preferred for mild to moderate adjustments.

We offer several options for braces including clear braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, self-ligating braces, invisible braces and traditional metal braces. 

Although the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the case and circumstance, the average braces cost can start at $3,000, while Invisalign typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. Many dental plans will cover part of the cost for both treatments. 

The cost of your orthodontic treatment will vary, depending on your individual needs and treatment plan. Our staff will discuss the cost of your treatment and each available payment plan option with you, so you can make the best choice for yourself and your smile. We will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget, and you will know what to expect before beginning treatment. If you are interested in learning more about your options financially, please give us a call.

The amount of time spent in braces or Invisalign will vary depending on the individual needs of the patient because every smile responds differently to treatment. However, treatment times can take anywhere between six and thirty months, but most standard treatments take about twenty two months.

The most important variable to keep in mind is to carefully follow Dr. Gardner's instructions and you will reach the "Braces Day Off" finish line right on schedule!

You may feel a small amount of discomfort for a few days as your teeth, gums, cheeks and mouth get used to your new braces or aligners. This is totally normal as we are moving and shifting your teeth from their current position to a new smile! Should you have any discomfort that lasts significantly longer than a few days, please let us know.

For braces, avoid hard and sticky foods, brush and floss regularly, and use a water flosser to clean around brackets and wires.  Dr. Gardner can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

For Invisalign, clean aligners with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water, and brush and floss teeth before putting aligners back in after meals. Brushing and flossing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between teeth and aid in maintaining a healthy gums and teeth during treatment.

We recommend you maintain visiting your dentist regularly during treatment, as with braces food may be caught in places your toothbrush cannot reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with Dr. Gardner to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy during treatment.

There may be a period of adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not deter you from participating in extracurricular activities. If you play a contact sport, we recommend that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance and your mouth from injury.

ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. We recommend keeping a toothbrush and toothpaste with you during school or work for ease of care.

Make sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask Dr. Gardner if you need a fluoride rinse to help prevent cavities. 

If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth and floss, and remember to keep your retainer safe in its container so it doesn't get lost or broken. Keep your retainer clean too by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner, and do not put it in the dishwasher or boiling water.

During treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth resulting in plaque buildup and possible cavities.

Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, etc.). 

Be sure to schedule the recommended routine checkups every six months with your family dentist.

Simply give us a call and our front office will be happy to help you schedule your next appointment!

If you are a new patient or have been referred to us, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need. You can also fill out our contact form here, and our office will be in contact with you soon!