At Timber Orthodontics, we have a team of dental specialists and orthodontists who are committed to making you feel at ease during every visit to the dentist. In some cases, one of these visits may end up with a treatment protocol that includes braces. If you or your child needs braces in Bend, OR, you are in the right place! Our orthodontists have many options to fit your family's budget and your comfort level.
Pediatric Braces
For most families, metal braces (or traditional braces) will be the best option for children under the age of 12. Metal braces are wire-based appliances that orthodontists use to correct misaligned teeth or jaws to produce an even bite and pleasing smile. Patients struggling with crowded or gapped teeth may be suitable candidates for braces. Traditional braces are made of metal, but some are ceramic or plastic-based. All braces are designed to be a comfortable solution for patients looking to straighten their teeth.
Teens and Adults
While some families may decide to go the traditional route for their teenager, teens and adults alike may want to choose a more discreet option - Invisalign. Invisalign is an excellent choice for working professionals or older students who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. With Invisalign, your teen will feel confident while they are in the in-between stage of orthodontics.
At your consultation, your orthodontist will determine if metal braces are right for you. First, your orthodontist will examine your jaw, gums, and teeth to check for gaps, crowding, and misalignment. They will also discuss your smile goals and develop a treatment plan made just for you.
Your orthodontist will then take a series of X-rays of your mouth as well as a mold of your teeth, known as an impression. Your orthodontist may make adjustments to ensure your teeth are properly aligning on the mold. Once this is complete, your orthodontist will use the data gathered from the images and impressions to create your metal braces.
To secure your metal braces, your orthodontist will dry and prepare your teeth to make the tooth surface ideal for bonding. Next, the braces will be attached to your teeth using a special adhesive and curing light to set the bond. Your orthodontist will then thread the metal wire through the brackets and hold it in place with ligature bands.
Once your braces are securely placed, your orthodontist will check for proper fitting to ensure maximum comfort. You’ll schedule a follow-up appointment with your orthodontist every 4-8 weeks to monitor progress, replace bands, and swap out the metal archwire for a new set. During these checkups, you can select new colors to let your smile shine in style.
On your last day of treatment, your orthodontist will remove the brackets, clean each tooth, and give you a retainer to help your teeth preserve their new positions. Your orthodontist will also equip you with detailed instructions on how to care for your smile so it can stay strong and straight for life.
Traditional braces are made of medical-grade stainless steel brackets and archwires that straighten your teeth over time. These popular aligners are oftentimes more affordable than other braces and are best suited for patients experiencing severe tooth and jaw misalignment.
For older, responsible patients and adults who want a solution with more flexibility that is less noticeable, we will recommend Invisalign treatment. Invisalign is clear and can be removed as needed, but Invisalign treatment requires self-discipline and is not recommended for younger patients.