Orthodontics: A Complete Guide

Orthodontics is a dentistry specialty that focuses on the treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws. While we all dream of having perfectly straight and aligned teeth, the reality is that only 35% of adults in the United States have well-aligned front teeth. Crooked teeth can affect a person's confidence and self-esteem, which can have a direct impact on both their social and work life.

With orthodontic treatment, people are able to realize the smile they dream of. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and smile, you aren't alone. Research shows that around 4 million people in the US are wearing braces at any one time, highlighting the popularity of braces.

If you are interested in learning more about orthodontics, this blog post is for you. Here, your expert dentist in Friendswood, TX will share the essential information you should know before choosing to straighten your teeth with orthodontics. Let's get started!

The Benefits of Braces

As noted above, the primary benefit of orthodontics is that they improve the appearance of the teeth and smile. People with straight teeth are perceived by others as being smarter, more successful, and having more dates. In fact, two out of five people in the US say they would not go on a second date with a person who has a crooked smile.

There are also several other benefits to orthodontics and reasons why people choose to get braces. In many cases, people with misaligned teeth struggle to adequately brush or floss their teeth. This can negatively affect the overall health of both their teeth and gums.

People with underbites, overbites, or crossbites can also benefit from undergoing orthodontic treatment. The same goes for people who have speech impediments, which may be caused by the positioning of the teeth. If you are interested in learning about the specific benefits of orthodontics, schedule a consultation with us.

The Different Types of Braces

Orthodontic treatment has seen significant advancements in recent years, with modern options more effective, efficient, and comfortable.

Traditional metal braces, for example, are far more inconspicuous than they once were. They are especially effective for tough cases where significant movement is required. Metal braces are affordable, durable, and fast-acting.

Clear aligners have become incredibly popular over the past 2 decades. One of the main benefits of clear aligners is that they are essentially invisible, meaning friends and co-workers are unlikely to know that you are wearing braces unless you choose to tell them. They also require fewer dentist visits, are removable for eating and brushing, and have short treatment times.

Other types of braces that you can choose from include ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and lingual braces. We will be able to help you to make the right decision when you are choosing which braces to get.

Treatment Times With Braces

The treatment time with braces depends on the patient and their specific case. We will be able to provide you with an estimated completion time depending on the braces you choose and the specifics of your case.

Complex issues may require between 24 and 30 months, while less complicated issues typically take around 12. With clear aligners, the average treatment time is between 12 and 18 months.

The good news here is that modern braces are more comfortable to wear than traditionally, as well as being more aesthetic.

The Cost of Orthodontics Treatment

As with treatment times, the cost of treatment will be determined by a number of factors. Some of the factors to be considered include:

  • Type of braces
  • Specific issues to fix
  • Length of treatment
  • Age (child or adult)

Without insurance, the average cost of braces is between $3,000 and $6,000, though it can be less depending on the specific case. We will be able to advise you on the exact cost depending on the above-listed factors.

Taking Care of Braces During Treatment

There are differences in how you will look after your braces depending on the specific option you get. For example, there will be significant differences in the at-home care of clear aligners and metal braces.

As clear aligners are removable, you will be able to eat and brush as normal. These braces do require looking after as they can become lost, which could affect the progress and the overall length of treatment.

With non-removable braces, there is special equipment that can be used to clean them. You may also be restricted in eating certain foods so as to prevent damage to the braces. For example, popcorn kernels can get stuck under braces or between the teeth.

If you play sports, particularly contact sports, we will be able to advise on the best practices in order to protect your braces. Properly looking after your braces and your teeth during treatment will help to avoid any delays.

Your Guide to Orthodontics: Get the Smile You Deserve

If you are not happy with the aesthetics of your teeth, orthodontic treatment can help you rediscover your smile. A bright smile can have an indirect impact on so many different facets of everyday life. By helping with self-esteem, people are able to navigate their social, romantic, and work lives with greater confidence.

For the best orthodontist in Friendswood, TX, choose our friendly, professional, and experienced team. We will be able to help you choose the orthodontic treatment that is best suited to you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation about orthodontics and get the smile you deserve.

A little girl is sitting in a dental chair being examined by a dentist.
By Dentistry 4 Children March 17, 2025
According to Child Stats, it is estimated that three million kids go to the emergency room for injuries yearly. Dental injuries, in particular, are common in children, especially those who are active in sports, playground activities, or simply exploring their surroundings. Knowing what to do and how to respond to a dental emergency can be hectic if you do not know what to do. But if you act fast and have a plan, you can prevent complications, minimize pain, and even save a tooth. Understanding first aid for dental injuries can help parents and your local family dentist provide immediate care before seeking professional treatment at a trusted pediatric dentist in Pearland . Common Types of Dental Injuries in Kids Children can experience various dental injuries, ranging from minor chips to severe trauma that requires emergency dental care. One of the most frequent injuries is a chipped or broken tooth. This is often caused by falls but can also be due to bike accidents or biting into hard objects. While minor chips may not cause immediate pain, more extensive fractures can expose nerves and lead to significant discomfort. Another serious dental injury is a knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth. When a permanent tooth is completely dislodged from the mouth, immediate action is crucial to improve the chances of saving it. In contrast, if a baby tooth is knocked out prematurely, attempting to reinsert it can cause damage to the developing permanent tooth underneath. A loose or displaced tooth is another common issue that can occur due to blunt force trauma. While some cases resolve independently, others require professional dental evaluation to ensure the surrounding structures remain intact. If your child experiences a dental emergency, learning about common pediatric dental emergencies can help you take the proper steps. Tooth intrusion occurs when a tooth is pushed further into the gums due to an impact. This type of injury is more common in younger children whose jawbones are still developing. Tooth intrusion can lead to complications, such as damage to the underlying permanent teeth, making it essential to visit an emergency pediatric dentist in Friendswood for proper assessment. Lastly, injuries to the lips, tongue, or gums often accompany dental trauma. These soft tissue injuries can cause significant bleeding and pain, increasing the risk of infection if not properly treated. Immediate First Aid Steps for Dental Injuries Providing immediate comprehensive oral care for dental injuries can significantly improve the outcome. For a chipped or broken tooth, it is essential to rinse the child's mouth with warm water to remove debris. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If possible, collect any broken fragments and bring them to a dentist. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, locate it and handle it only by the crown, avoiding contact with the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the child bite on a clean cloth to hold it in place. If reinsertion is not feasible, store the tooth in milk or the child's saliva and seek emergency dental care immediately. For a step-by-step guide on managing a knocked-out tooth, check out this helpful resource on handling pediatric dental emergencies . Stabilizing a loose or displaced tooth by having the child bite down gently on a piece of gauze is essential. Avoid repositioning the tooth forcefully, as this could cause additional damage. A child-friendly dentist should assess the injury as soon as possible. Tooth intrusion should be treated with caution. Attempting to reposition the tooth at home is not recommended. Instead, apply a cold compress if the tooth is swelling and schedule an emergency dental visit. Seeking care from a pediatric emergency dentist in Friendswood can ensure the injury is managed appropriately. For soft tissue injuries, such as cuts to the lips, tongue, or gums, applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze can help control bleeding. A cold compress can reduce swelling, and rinsing with salt water may help prevent infection. When to Seek Professional Dental Care While minor dental injuries may not require immediate attention from a family dentistry practice, certain signs indicate the need for urgent dental care. Severe pain, swelling, excessive bleeding, or a knocked-out permanent tooth warrant an emergency visit to a dentist. Additionally, any signs of infection, such as: Pus Fever Red streaks near the injury site These should not be ignored. Understanding when to seek professional care can help prevent long-term complications. Parents can find more information on common pediatric dental emergencies . Prevention Tips to Reduce Dental Injuries While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, certain precautions can help minimize the risk of dental injuries in children. Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports and recreational activities provides essential protection against impacts. Childproofing the home by securing furniture edges and installing safety gates can prevent falls that lead to dental trauma. Encouraging children to avoid chewing hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy can also reduce the likelihood of chipped or broken teeth. Teaching good dental hygiene habits , including brushing and flossing regularly, strengthens teeth and enhances their resilience against injury. Additionally, parents should be prepared for unexpected dental emergencies while traveling. Knowing where to find emergency dental care can be invaluable in an unfamiliar location. If your child experiences a dental emergency away from home, reviewing these tips for handling dental emergencies while traveling can be beneficial. Need a Local Family Dentist? Contact Dentistry 4 Children Understanding first aid for dental injuries in children can make a significant difference in preserving their oral health. By acting quickly and getting affordable dental services, parents and caregivers can reduce pain, prevent complications, and increase the chances of saving an injured tooth. Here at Dentistry 4 Children, we know how scary these accidents can be for children. That is why we do everything possible to provide a safe and supportive local family dentist environment. So contact us today to get your child the help they need.
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