ABOUT Braces
Boston Area: Achieve Your Best Smile with Braces at Square Smiles
Square Smiles, led by Dr. Elon Joffre and his dedicated team, provides the very best in orthodontic solutions for adults and children. Our Milton, MA practice offers two highly effective types of braces: traditional metal braces, and aesthetic ceramic braces. Starting with our first point of contact, we will work collaboratively with you to discern the best personalized orthodontic treatment for you or your child. We believe the best treatment is the one you feel good about, because everything works better when we’re all together on the same page. It isn’t exclusively about what looks best on paper. Rather, we work to build a treatment plan that suits you or your child as a whole person. We believe in crafting personalized treatment plans that build beautiful smiles and boost confidence.
Braces vs Invisalign
Choosing between Invisalign and braces boils down to personal preference, lifestyle, and orthodontic needs. About 20% of our patients end up with braces instead of Invisalign based on these parameters. During your consultation at Square Smiles, we’ll help you determine which treatment suits your unique situation, and we’ll help you identify your preference. Reasons for choosing or requiring braces over Invisalign might include:
- Orthodontic needs: Dr. Joffre is particularly skilled at accomplishing big things with Invisalign, but there are still a few cases (representing perhaps 10% of our patients) where braces are simply a more appropriate solution. These cases might include ones where vertical movement is required or major bite issues need to be corrected.
- A specific kind of self-discipline: Invisalign can feel high-maintenance to some, requiring patients to brush, floss, and clean their aligners on a schedule. Not everyone’s lifestyle is conducive to this kind of regularity. Furthermore, wearing the aligners the required 20-22 hours per day can be a difficult habit for some people to adhere to.
- Predictability: Braces remain the most precise and predictable way to move teeth. Some patients whose treatments rely heavily on predictable movement may be better off with braces.
- Special needs: Patients with disabilities or other conditions that limit dexterity may have difficulty placing, removing, and cleaning aligners.
- Restorative work: Bridges, crowns, and implants are obstacles in orthodontic treatment in any case, but braces sometimes allow us to more easily work around them.
- Aesthetics: Yes, it’s true. Braces are actually kind of cool right now, and they do offer colors! Some people like the way they look and just want braces.
If one (or more) of the above cases applies to you, then you might in fact do better with braces vs Invisalign. But let’s chat even if you have your heart set on clear aligners, because:
- You could still be a candidate for Invisalign, though it could take a bit longer.
- You may even benefit from a combination of the two.
- You might be a candidate for ceramic braces (see below for more)!
Types of Braces
At Square Smiles, we pride ourselves in offering treatment options that suit your family’s unique needs and compliment your lifestyle. Options at Square Smiles include both metal and ceramic braces. Let’s take a look at each type and their attributes.
The Magic of Metal Braces: Pros and Cons
Metal braces, the conventional choice in orthodontics, have evolved over the years to become more comfortable, effective, and cosmetically appealing. Some pros include:
- Complex cases: Metal braces are highly efficient in treating complex orthodontic issues.
- Speed of movement: Made of highly durable stainless steel, they are sometimes the fastest way to straighten teeth and correct misalignments.
- Fun with colors: Children can make a splash with their favorite colors, showing school spirit with their team colors, coordinating to upcoming holidays, or just getting creative.
As for the “cons,” the main reason patients sometimes choose a different orthodontic treatment is aesthetics. While some patients don’t mind at all, others would rather have something less conspicuous than metal braces.
An Aesthetic Alternative: Ceramic Braces
While traditional metal braces and colorful ligatures have their own appeal, ceramic braces introduce an element of subtlety. Crafted from transparent or tooth-colored ceramics, they blend seamlessly with your teeth, offering a discrete treatment choice. The primary drawback to ceramic braces is that they’re not quite as durable as stainless-steel braces. Ceramic brackets can occasionally break, requiring replacement, so dietary restrictions must be taken very seriously.
Cost of Braces: An Investment in Your Smile
“How much do braces cost?” is one of our most commonly asked questions. The cost of braces varies widely, depending on the complexity of treatment, choice of metal or ceramic, and other individual factors. But, like Invisalign, the price range for braces is about $4000 to $8000. We work with many dental insurance providers and offer flexible payment plans to help make this payout manageable.
Embracing Orthodontics: Who Are Braces for?
Children or teens gleefully (or reluctantly) stepping into their journey, adults striving to reach their smile goals–all have a home at Square Smiles. With our comprehensive orthodontic care, we cater to patients across various age groups, offering personalized treatments designed for each unique stage of life.
Braces Wax, Rubber Bands & Dental Floss
While in your braces journey, certain additional tools may be essential for you or your kiddo’s comfort and best outcome. Here are a few of those tools:
- Wax for braces: For times when components cause irritation, braces wax can provide a smooth barrier. Wax for your braces is totally optional, and it’s HSA/FSA eligible. Natural and scented varieties are available online.
- Rubber bands for braces: Also known as elastics, braces rubber bands can play a crucial role in aligning your jaw or moving specific teeth. If your treatment requires rubber bands, Dr. Joffre will let you know; and the more you wear them, the faster your treatment will move along.
- Waterpik® or dental floss for braces: Flossing is a little bit different when you have braces, and there are a few ways to do it. Water flossers and special dental floss products are great options.
Ensuring Long-Lasting Benefits: Retainers After Braces
Once you or your kidoo’s braces come off, the retention phase begins, aka retainers. To ensure the stability and permanence of your newly straightened teeth, these small, custom-fitted devices maintain the position of your teeth after your braces have been removed. Square Smiles offers a variety of retainers to meet the diverse needs of our patients:
- Essix retainers: These are virtually invisible retainers designed from clear plastic, very similar to Invisalign aligners. They are comfortable and subtly blend with your teeth, making them our most popular retainer type.
- Hawley retainers: The tried-and-true, this removable type of retainer comprises acrylic and metal parts designed to keep your teeth in place.
- Fixed retainers: Also known as permanent retainers, these are bonded directly to the back of your teeth. They offer a maintenance-free solution, ideal for patients seeking a hands-off approach to retaining their new smile.
Compliance is so important when it comes to retainers, so Dr. Joffre will help you or your child choose the type of retainer that best suits your orthodontic needs and lifestyle. As with every other stage of your orthodontic treatment, we believe the best choice is the one you feel best about.
Metal and Ceramic Braces Q&A
Patient education is a cornerstone for us at Square Smiles, and we’re thrilled to answer all your questions. Additionally, every individual’s treatment plan will have its own details and nuances. But there are some questions we can answer up front with relative certainty. These are a few of the most frequently asked questions that we haven’t already covered!
Are there any age restrictions for ceramic or metal braces treatment at Square Smiles?
There are no age restrictions for orthodontic treatment. We provide personalized treatment for both children and adults based on their individual needs. Generally, children under about six years old will not need braces yet.
Can I switch from metal braces to ceramic braces, or vice versa, during the course of my treatment?
Each patient’s treatment plan is unique and dependent on a variety of factors. Switching between types of braces during treatment is a decision that would be made in consultation with Dr. Joffre.
Is there a difference in treatment duration between ceramic and metal braces?
Treatment duration largely depends on the complexity of your case rather than the type of braces used. During your consultation, we can provide an estimate of expected treatment duration.
How often would I need to visit Square Smiles during my braces treatment?
Regular adjustments are crucial in the braces treatment journey. The frequency of visits can vary based on individual treatment plans, but typically patients visit us once every 4-8 weeks.
What should I do if a bracket breaks or I experience discomfort with my braces?
If a bracket breaks or if you’re experiencing discomfort, please contact us immediately. We’re committed to ensuring your treatment process is as comfortable as possible and will provide immediate assistance to resolve any issues.
Does Square Smiles offer any other treatments apart from braces?
Yes, in addition to metal and ceramic braces, we also offer Invisalign treatment as well as a variety of adjunct and post-braces treatments.
Can I get my braces tightened at another orthodontic practice if I am traveling or moving?
While it’s recommended to complete your orthodontic treatment with the same provider throughout, we understand that circumstances like travel or relocation can necessitate going elsewhere. In such cases, we recommend finding a reputable orthodontist to ensure continuity of care.
What is the right age to start orthodontic treatments for my child?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child’s first check-up with an orthodontist at the first recognition of the existence of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7.
How do I clean my teeth while I have braces?
Keeping your teeth and braces clean is important for ensuring effective treatment. We advise brushing and flossing regularly, and using specialized cleaning tools when required. We’ll fill you all the way in on everything before you begin treatment!
Will my orthodontic treatment be painful?
While each person’s experience varies, most patients experience mild discomfort or soreness when braces are initially applied or adjusted. Most of the time, over-the-counter pain reliever and an orthodontic wax to cover any poking parts can help alleviate the discomfort.
Your Path to a Brighter Smile Begins at Square Smiles
Guided by the exceptional Dr. Elon Joffre, Square Smiles in Milton, MA stands as the prime choice for individualized orthodontic care. Known for our innovative approach and focus on patient experience, we offer ceramic and metal braces that cater to your distinct needs.
Conveniently located for patients in eastern Norfolk County, our commitment extends beyond state-of-the-art facilities and braces options. We’re dedicated to lighting up your world, one confident smile at a time. Reach out to us today to learn more about metal or ceramic braces and schedule a consultation.
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