Types of Braces
Welcome to Michael Richards Orthodontics, where we blend cutting-edge technology with personalized care to create beautiful, healthy smiles. Our practice is proud to offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic solutions, including the revolutionary Damon Ultima metal brackets and Damon Clear brackets. These state-of-the-art braces systems are designed to provide our patients with efficient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing treatment options.
Choosing the right braces is a crucial step in your orthodontic journey, and at Michael Richards Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to helping you make an informed decision. Both Damon Ultima metal brackets and Damon Clear brackets represent the pinnacle of orthodontic innovation, offering distinct advantages tailored to meet diverse needs and preferences.
Damon Ultima Self-Ligating Metal Brackets
When you are considering orthodontic treatment, Dr. Richards may recommend Damon braces to align your teeth and improve your smile. Damon braces are self-ligating, which means that they are specially designed to be faster and more comfortable than traditional metal braces. The Damon Ultima system is the most advanced bracket system on the market and makes use of a revolutionary slide mechanism that eliminates the need for metal or elastic ties, and light, high-tech shape-memory wires that move the teeth faster and require fewer adjustments.
Damon Ultima braces are designed to enhance your facial aesthetics and produce a better overall result. They also have a number of advantages over traditional braces, including:
- Appearance (the brackets are smaller, and the clear brackets are nearly invisible, even though the wire is still visible)
- Faster treatment times
- Fewer appointments to adjust your braces
- Less discomfort during treatment
- Better oral hygiene (there are fewer areas on the braces to accumulate plaque and bacteria)
Damon Clear Self-Ligating Brackets
This innovative system combines aesthetics with functionality, making it a preferred choice for patients seeking an inconspicuous yet effective treatment path.
Damon Clear braces set themselves apart with their clear brackets, which blend well with your teeth for a near-invisible appearance. Ideal for both adults and teens who are concerned about their looks during treatment, Damon clear brackets offer an attractive alternative that doesn’t compromise performance.
The technology behind Damon clear brackets is what truly differentiates it from traditional braces. Employing a self-ligating mechanism, these braces eliminate the need for elastics or ties by securing the wire directly within the bracket. This not only reduces the visual impact of the braces but also improves the comfort and ease of maintenance for patients.
The Damon System stands out for its use of self-ligating technology, eliminating the need for traditional elastic bands to hold the wire in place. This advancement allows for more freedom of movement, resulting in faster treatment times and reduced discomfort. Whether you opt for the sleek efficiency of Damon Ultima metal brackets or the discreet elegance of Damon Clear brackets, you’re choosing a path to a stunning smile that’s customized to fit your lifestyle.
Braces for Kids
At our offices, we believe that every child deserves a smile they can be proud of. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing specialized orthodontic care for our youngest patients, ensuring their journey to a perfect smile is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Braces for kids are more than just a pathway to straight teeth; they’re a foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
The early years are the best time to address dental issues, thanks to the natural growth processes of children. Braces can correct misaligned teeth, gaps, overcrowding, and bite problems, which if left untreated, could lead to more complex dental issues in the future. Beyond the aesthetics of straight teeth, braces contribute to better oral health, making it easier for kids to brush, floss, and keep their mouths healthy.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early assessment allows us to identify potential issues and determine the best time to begin treatment. Some children may benefit from early intervention, while others might be advised to wait until more of their permanent teeth have arrived.
A Fun, Positive Experience
We understand that getting braces can be a big step for a child. Our team goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where kids feel comfortable and excited about their orthodontic journey. From engaging explanations about how braces work to celebrating milestones along the way, we make every effort to ensure the experience is positive and fun.
We’re not just here for our young patients — we’re here for you, too. We provide parents with all the information and support they need, from understanding the treatment process to tips on helping your child maintain good oral hygiene with braces. Our goal is to make the journey to a beautiful smile a team effort.
Braces For Teens
Navigating the teenage years can be challenging, but at offices, we’re here to ensure that achieving a confident, radiant smile doesn’t have to be part of the struggle. Our braces for teens are designed with today’s generation in mind: blending efficiency, comfort, and style to make the orthodontic journey as smooth as possible.
The teenage years are all about self-discovery and expression. We understand that each teen is unique, and so are their orthodontic needs and preferences. That’s why we offer a range of braces options, ensuring that every teen can find a fit that aligns with their lifestyle and personality.
Embracing Individuality & Confidence
At Michael Richards Orthodontics, we’re committed to more than just straightening teeth; we’re dedicated to supporting our teen patients through every step of their orthodontic journey. We create a welcoming environment where teens can feel comfortable and understood. Our team takes the time to explain the treatment process, answer questions, and address any concerns, ensuring that teens and their families are fully informed and involved in the care plan.
Orthodontic treatment is a crucial part of maintaining overall oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, correcting bite issues can prevent problems with chewing, speaking, and even jaw discomfort. Our comprehensive approach focuses on achieving not only beautiful smiles but also promoting long-term dental health.
We believe knowledge is power. Dr. Richards and our team provide teens and their families with all the resources they need to navigate the braces experience successfully. From tips on brushing and flossing around brackets and wires to guidance on managing common concerns like discomfort after adjustments, we’re here to empower our patients with information and support.
Braces for Adults
At Michael Richards Orthodontics, we believe it’s never too late to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Our adult orthodontic treatments are designed with your unique needs and lifestyle in mind, ensuring that your path to a more beautiful smile is as seamless and efficient as possible. With advanced solutions like Damon Ultima metal brackets and Damon Clear brackets, we offer adults the perfect combination of aesthetics, comfort, and effectiveness.
Many adults may not have had the opportunity to correct their smiles during childhood or have experienced changes in their dental alignment over time. Whether you’re looking to improve your oral health, boost your confidence, or prevent future dental issues, braces can offer significant benefits beyond just a straighter smile. Proper alignment can reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and uneven wear on the teeth, contributing to a healthier, more vibrant smile.
Our Approach To Adult Braces
- Personalized Treatment Plans — We understand that every patient’s dental needs and goals are unique. That’s why we offer customized treatment plans tailored specifically to you, ensuring that you receive the most effective and appropriate care.
- Advanced Orthodontic Technology — Our practice is equipped with the latest in orthodontic technology, including Damon Ultima and Damon Clear braces, to provide you with the best possible results in the shortest amount of time.
- Comfort & Convenience — We prioritize your comfort and convenience throughout your treatment. Our friendly staff and welcoming office environment make each visit a pleasant experience, and our flexible scheduling helps fit your orthodontic care seamlessly into your busy life.
- Experience & Expertise — With years of experience providing orthodontic care to adults, our team has the expertise to address a wide range of dental issues. You can trust us to guide you through your orthodontic journey with care and professionalism.
No matter what your age, a healthy, beautiful smile is within reach. At Michael Richards Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of with the right braces option for your lifestyle and goals. Contact us today to request your consultation and take the first step toward transforming your smile and your life.
Braces FAQ
There are some foods that you should avoid to prevent your braces from being damaged. These include:
- Chewy Foods — such as bagels and licorice
- Crunchy Foods — such as popcorn, ice and chips
- Sticky Foods — such as caramel and chewing gum
- Hard Foods — such as nuts and hard candies
- Foods That Require Biting Into — such as corn on the cob, raw carrots, and uncut apples
Your teeth and mouth may feel tender or sore when you begin wearing braces. This should go away within a few days. Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated for the first few weeks while your mouth adjusts. We are happy to provide you with wax to put over your braces to help relieve tenderness and discomfort. You may also take a mild pain reliever to relieve any soreness.
Your teeth might also feel a little loose as your treatment progresses. This is normal and is caused by the repositioning of your teeth. Once your teeth have achieved their proper position, they will stop feeling loose.
Yes, you can still play sports and musical instruments while wearing braces! We recommend that you wear an athletic mouth guard to protect your teeth, gums, and appliances during sporting activities. You may need to make a few adjustments while playing a musical instrument, but your braces should not cause any problems.
Proper care is crucial for achieving the best results and maintaining oral health during treatment. This includes regular brushing and flossing, avoiding certain hard or sticky foods, and attending all scheduled orthodontic appointments. We will equip you with all the tools and information needed to care for your braces effectively.
After your braces are removed, you’ll enter the retention phase of treatment. You’ll be fitted for a retainer to ensure your teeth stay in their new positions. Wearing your retainer as instructed is key to maintaining your beautiful new smile.