Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are sometimes the best choice on the journey to a radiant smile.
They get the job done without requiring excessive attention from the patient. Today, traditional braces are available with clear and ceramic bands. These new styles can be considerably less noticeable.
Clear and Ceramic Braces
At Robinwood Smiles, our patients have the option to choose clear or ceramic braces instead of metal braces. Ceramic braces are made of composite materials and come in varying levels of transparency that mimic the color of your natural teeth. Now you can achieve your goal of a beautiful smile with braces that are cosmetically less noticeable than metal braces.
Lotus®Self-Ligating Braces
Robinwood Smiles offers Lotus self-ligating brackets. These braces are a safe, comfortable, and effective alternative to traditional metal braces. Lotus brackets are smaller and less noticeable. The passive wire adjustments cause less friction and pressure and provide more comfort during treatment. Being small in size, they can be placed with more precision and provide a better fit for your teeth. All this leads to a great smile in shorter and fewer office visits.
Your consultation is FREE.
We have helped thousands of your Hagerstown friends and neighbors achieve straight, healthy, attractive smiles. We can help you, too.
FAQs About Braces
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Braces use steady, gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment times vary from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by the patient’s rate of growth and the severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length also depends upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are two ways to make sure everything stays on schedule.
Do braces hurt?
It doesn’t usually hurt when we place bands and brackets on your teeth. Once your braces are placed and connected with the archwires, you may feel some soreness for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to braces.
Will I have to wear headgear?
Our treatment options do not require headgear.
Will I have to give up sports?
No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive and comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
After a period of adjustment, many patients still play their instruments without a problem. In some cases, brace covers help prevent discomfort.
Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?
Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleanings and dental checkups.
Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?
No. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.
Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?
Sorry, no. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth actually becomes less.
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
It’s easy. Just call us at 240.313.9660 and we’ll arrange for a free consultation. You can also use our online appointment request form.
What will happen at the initial examination appointment?
Upon arriving, each patient will be asked for the new patient forms and insurance card. The doctor will then complete a thorough clinical exam. Additional information, such as X-rays or photographs, may be needed for proper diagnosis.
Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary.
Can I speed up my treatment?
Robinwood Smiles provides two technologies that speed up the treatment process. When used with traditional braces or Invisalign, AcceleDent has been clinically proven to reduce treatment time by up to half. Propel Orthodontics may also be a good option for you. Ask during your consultation if either Propel or AcceleDent Aura would be beneficial in your case.
What are some benefits of orthodontics beyond a more attractive smile?
- Better function of the teeth
- More self-confidence
- Increased ability to clean the teeth
- Improved force distribution and wear patterns of the teeth
- Better long-term health of teeth and gums
- Reduced risk of injury to protruded front teeth
Call Robinwood Dental Center at 240.313.9660.