Orthodontic Braces for All Ages in the Triad
The advanced braces options and techniques we use to create healthy, confident smiles today translate to greater comfort and in many cases, shorter treatment times. Learn more, then book a free consult with our clinic in Archdale, Asheboro, or Greensboro. We look forward to helping you decide which customized approach will help deliver the results you want!
Types of Braces
Traditional Twin-Bracket Metal Braces
Most people picture twin bracket braces made of metal when they think of braces because this approach has been around for a long time. That doesn’t mean it hasn’t evolved, however. In fact, our doctors have spent countless hours learning the latest approaches to straightening smiles with metal braces, and they spend many more hours each year staying up to date with their skills and knowledge. Metal braces can be a lot of fun, too! Learn why by exploring metal braces in detail.
Ceramic/Clear Braces
When braces are the best approach to get the results you want, but you want a more discreet option, ceramic or clear braces could be the choice you’re after. They’re less noticeable because they’re clear or tooth colored. Their barely-there appearance makes them a popular option for adults, though some of our patients love to create an especially striking look by choosing colorful ligature ties that look almost “neon.” This option comes with some special precautions, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.
Self-Ligating Braces
That term is a bit of a tongue-twister, isn’t it? Here’s the lowdown: these braces may be metal or clear/ceramic. The main difference between these and twin brackets is that self-ligating brackets don’t use elastic bands. Instead, they use a special mechanism that locks the archwire in place, making routine adjustments quicker and easier. Discover ways the difference can affect your treatment time by exploring our page on self-ligating braces.
Smile Transformation Success Stories
Braces Results
I love choices, but which braces are right for me?
Count on us to help you decide during your free consult.
Braces FAQs
What foods should I avoid while I have braces?
No stress zone alert! Despite what you may have heard about dietary restriction with braces, the list of foods to avoid while wearing braces is short. To help prevent damage to the brackets or to prevent food particles from becoming trapped between the brackets and wires, you should avoid:
- Chewy foods such as fruit leathers, beef jerky, or bagels
- Highly crunchy foods like raw carrots, chips, raw celery, and popcorn
- Sticky foods like caramel candy, licorice, and marshmallows
- Very hard foods like hard candy, hard breadsticks, or pizza crust
- Any food you have to bite into such as apples or corn on the cob — though you can still enjoy these foods by slicing into smaller bites or removing the corn from the cob.
Yep! That’s about it. Basically, common sense applies here. If it seems like a bad idea to eat it while in your braces, you probably shouldn’t eat it.
How do I brush my teeth with braces?
Though it’s clearly different than not having braces, brushing with braces isn’t some crazy ordeal you can’t pick up quickly:
- Before brushing, do a quick rinse with water. This will dislodge any food particles stuck between the wires or brackets.
- Brush beginning at the gum line, using a 45-degree angle of approach. As you move towards the brackets brush from both the top and the bottom, ensuring that the bristles reach under the wires and around the brackets. This process may take some extra time in the beginning, but once you are used to it, it will be routine for you.
- Follow up with thorough flossing. You will need to use a precise and careful flossing technique to make sure you do not dislodge or loosen the brackets or wires. It takes a little practice, but we’ll get you started on the right foot during your appointment.
Are braces painful? How do I ease the pain?
Generally, braces are not painful. However, you may feel a little sore or uncomfortable immediately after you first get them. This soreness is normal, and it will not last long.
A saltwater rinse can help relieve soreness and inflammation. Dissolve a single teaspoon of salt in a full cup of lukewarm water and swish around your mouth for a few minutes. If soreness persists, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If you experience lip, cheek, or tongue irritation in the weeks after getting braces, some orthodontic wax can alleviate the problem quickly.
How long will I have to have braces?
The amount of time that you will need to wear braces varies, depending on several things, such as the severity of your bite problem. Most patients need to wear braces for 12 to 24 months, but this can be shorter or longer depending on your case. We’ll discuss this with you and give you a general idea of what you can expect.
After several months of wearing braces, we can measure progress more easily and more accurately update you regarding how much longer you can expect to wear braces.
Can I get braces that are less noticeable?
Of course! Ceramic braces, for example, are a popular option when you want a bit more discreet approach. They’re very similar to traditional metal braces in how they work and can be just as effective as metal braces. The difference is that instead of metal alloys, ceramic brackets are made of a white or clear ceramic material that better blends with your smile. In addition, we offer Invisalign® treatment, which has additional benefits beyond a more discreet treatment approach.
How much do braces cost in North Carolina?
Great question! Though we understand why cost is an important factor in making an educated decision about treatment, we just can’t give you an exact answer. That’s because our approach is customized to the unique needs of every patient. The good news: we’re committed to making treatment affordable for all, and we offer flexible financing for any budget to families and individuals in the Triad area.
Does insurance cover braces?
Yes, many insurance plans do cover braces, and we’re committed to making orthodontic treatment accessible for every patient and family. We accept most insurance plans and work closely with you to maximize your benefits, ensuring you get the most out of your coverage. We also offer affordable payment plans designed to fit any budget, so you can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted without breaking the bank.
Achieve Your Best Smile with the Orthodontic Leaders in Archdale, Asheboro, & Greensboro
Grinz Orthodontics – Asheboro
Grinz Orthodontics – Greensboro
