Braces for adults and children in Cary, NC

At Stanley Dentistry, we use braces to correct “bad bites” or malocclusion, which are teeth that are crowded, rotated or crooked. Some patients may have straight teeth but jaw or tooth alignment problems that require orthodontic treatment. It’s very important to correct an abnormal bite and rotated teeth. If left untreated, these things can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and other problems down the road.

We’re proud to offer orthodontics along with a wide range of other services to our patients. No matter what dental problem you’re having, we can help. Receiving orthodontic braces at Stanley Dentistry means our team of highly-trained dental experts can track every facet of your dental health — from cleanings and cavities to braces and developmental appliances. You can rest easy knowing the dentist who’s putting on your braces knows your complete dental history.

The path to a straight smile may include:

  • Traditional braces
  • Invisalign
  • Self-Ligating braces
  • Ceramic or cosmetic braces
  • Functional appliances
  • or other options

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating (or speed braces) are very small and hard to notice. Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating braces have brackets that don’t require ligatures (the elastic or metal ties that hold the wire in place.) Instead, the brackets have a “trap-door” that helps the arch wire guide teeth into place. These brackets exert greater control as the size of the wire increases.There are many benefits to self-ligating braces over traditional braces:

  • Comfort: Because less pressure is placed on each tooth, they can be more comfortable.
  • Cleaning: Many patients find them easy to clean.
  • Fewer visits: No elastics to replace means fewer and quicker visits to the dentist.
  • Faster: Because no elastics are placed against the wire, the teeth can move faster.

Ceramic or Cosmetic Braces

Ceramic braces, also known as cosmetic braces, provide a virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth. Many adults and teens choose ceramic braces since they “blend in” well with the teeth and are almost unnoticeable. Ceramic braces are very strong and do not stain. They are the perfect orthodontic option for patients who want traditional braces without the embarrassment of metal brackets. Ceramic braces can also have self-ligating brackets which are not only cosmetic but also faster.

Ceramic braces work in the same way as traditional braces do but are virtually invisible. Unlike metal braces, ceramic braces are made of composite materials that are placed on the front of your teeth and virtually disappear in your smile. Ceramic brackets are translucent, which allows them to blend with your teeth and look more natural. These braces use a clear ligature elastic and a thin metal wire to help the teeth move into the desired position.

Something you may want to think about when reviewing your orthodontic options is how often you drink coffee, tea, or wine. Some beverages can stain the clear brackets and bands if you don’t care for your braces properly. We can provide recommendations on how to keep your braces looking their best!

How long will I have to wear braces?

Are braces just cosmetic?

Adults and braces

Frequently Asked Questions about

Braces

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What age should I consider braces for my child?

Although some children can begin orthodontic treatment at the age of six, it is generally recommended to get braces or other treatments between the ages of 8 to 14. This age range is the most suitable for straightening teeth as the head and mouth are still developing at this stage. During a consultation, the dentist will take into consideration the patient’s facial balance, crowding of teeth, bite position, growth patterns, and jaw alignment. Depending on the individual, treatments may include removable or fixed appliances such as braces, clear aligners, headgear or palate expanders.

What are my options for getting straighter teeth?

Straightening your teeth can be done through a variety of treatments. The two most popular options are Invisalign and braces. Invisalign is an advanced orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth. Each aligner is custom-made to fit your individual needs. The aligners are designed to gradually move your teeth into the desired position over the course of the treatment. Invisalign is a great choice for adults and children who want to maintain their smile while undergoing treatment. Braces are the traditional method of straightening teeth. They are made up of brackets that are attached to your teeth and held in place with wires and elastics. Braces can be used to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, misalignment, and gaps. Braces are recommended for children and teenagers who need help with tooth development as well as adults. Developmental appliances such as headgear, expanders, and retainers can also be used to help straighten teeth and correct bite problems. These appliances are often recommended for young children to prevent orthodontic issues from worsening over time. No matter which treatment you choose, the goal is to help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. Talk with your dentist to find out which treatment is best for you. With the right care and guidance, you can have a straight, beautiful smile in no time!

What are the pros and cons of Invisalign?

The obvious benefit of Invisalign is aesthetics. A major reason adults ask for Invisalign is that they don’t like the appearance of traditional braces. Invisalign offers patients a nearly-invisible way to straighten their teeth — no metal required.Another pro of Invisalign is ease and comfort. While not pain-free, you can take out your Invisalign trays whenever you want. This, however, means that most Invisalign treatments take longer than traditional braces. Invisalign also will not work in severe cases of misalignment.

Is Invisalign better than braces?

Invisalign and braces basically do the same thing. They use constant pressure to gently push the teeth into alignment over an extended period of time. Braces use metal and ceramic to do this while Invisalign uses sturdy plastic.Invisalign is not necessarily better than braces since they can both typically accomplish the same task. In some cases, our doctors may recommend braces over Invisalign because of the severity of the case (if the teeth are too tightly packed, Invisalign won’t work). In other cases, they may recommend Invisalign because it’s easier on the patient.

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We don’t want to toot our own horn, but we are proud of our reputation. We feel that it is a reflection of the hard work and dedication we have committed to our profession, as well as a representation of the passion we have for providing exceptional care to our patients. At Stanley Dentistry, our goal is to earn our patient’s trust and loyalty.

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The Stanley Dentistry badge, which consists of three horizontal lines. The top line is flat, the second is slightly curved, and the third is more curved. This represents the journey to finding your smile!