BRACES BASICS

Do you use frictionless braces that don't hurt?

Yes, our office uses frictionless braces! There are many brands of frictionless braces such as the Damon System, Time, In-Ovation, and Smart clip. In the last few years, Dr. Emerson has treated many patients using each of these systems of braces. The bottom line is that none of them are "magic." All of these braces work similarly in allowing very crowded cases to align faster than traditional braces. Using these braces in combination with highly flexible, space-age technology wires, designed by NASA, can produce amazing results, but nothing can prevent certain patients from feeling slight discomfort when their teeth start to move.


Why are teeth sore?

Braces allow Dr. Emerson to attach a wire to each tooth to move it to the proper place. As the teeth move, the body has to repair the bone and gums surrounding each tooth. Because of this, many patients need a little extra care at the beginning of their treatment. Think of it as caring for a sprained ankle. Use Ibuprophen or Acetaminophen to help with the discomfort and try to take it easy on your teeth. You wouldn't jog with a sprained ankle so when you get your braces, stay away from tough, chewy foods for a couple of days. Once the teeth are moving, it is a slow, 24 hour a day process and most discomfort will be gone within the first couple of days.


But someone told me the frictionless braces would keep me from having to get teeth pulled.

They sure can! Newer technologies in orthodontics, including the highly flexible wires and glues that allow us to use braces instead of bands, have greatly decreased the need to pull teeth in many types of orthodontic cases. Certain cases still need to have teeth removed, but that decision is determined individually depending on what is best for each patient's situation. No specific type of brace on the market has ever been scientifically proven to deliver results superior to another type of brace. Braces are a tool that when combined with an orthodontist's knowledge produce outstanding smiles.


How long do most people wear braces?

The average person will have braces 1-2 years depending on type of case. Everyone's teeth move at a different rate and some cases, like a large overbite, take longer to correct. At your complimentary initial consult, Dr. Emerson will talk to you about your treatment and how long your case is expected to take. Remember, taking care of your teeth, gums, braces, and following treatment instructions will help each case finish faster.


Can I get the clear, removable, INVISALIGN braces?

Absolutely! Dr. Emerson has given countless people beautiful smiles with Invisalign. Invisalign is a great product to align your teeth if you already have a good bite. At your initial consultation, Dr. Emerson will inform you if you are a candidate.


If INVISALIGN is not the right option for me, but I don't like the look of metal, can I have clear braces?

Absolutely! Clear Ceramic Braces are extremely popular with adults and teenagers who want the great result of braces without the look of metal. Dr. Emerson offers the clearest ceramic braces on the market so you can have that bright, white, smile while your teeth are aligning.


Do you offer payment plans?

Absolutely! We offer financial packages that will suit anyone's needs. Whether you take advantage of our discounted "pay-in-full" plan, work through our office with a Capital One "No Down Payment" plan, or use Emerson Orthodontics' complementary "NO INTEREST" payment option, we will create a plan that fits you.


How often do I get my braces adjusted?

With the space-age wires Dr. Emerson uses, the typical adjustment is every 6-8 weeks. Remember, your teeth are slowly moving 24 hours a day. This is a new concept for most adults who remember the steel wires being "tightened" every 4 weeks. The revolutionary flexible wires allow for more movement between visits at a greater comfort level to the patient.