Life is too short not to have a smile you’re proud to display. And with all the recent advances in orthodontics, many adults today are taking advantage of the many new orthodontic techniques available to improve one of their biggest assets—their smile.

Although the importance of a beautiful healthy smile and a proper bite to prevent dental problems is well known, some adults are hesitant to initiate orthodontic treatment for one reason or another. Adults are often pleased to discover that today we have several options to straighten teeth that have been developed specifically for adult patients to address their unique needs and concerns to straighten their teeth more quickly, less noticeably and with minimal discomfort

We offer many options for adults to straighten their teeth:

1. Newly Advanced, Hi-Tech Metal Braces
   In our office we offer the most advanced metal braces available. Braces today are smaller, flatter, and much more comfortable. Years of research on tooth movement has resulted in braces and wires that move teeth much more efficiently resulting in patients wearing braces for less time and with a better result.
2. Ceramic (Clear) Braces
   Our office offers a selection of clear braces tailored to address each patient's specific treatment needs. Clear braces combined with white wires and clear elastics ties are much less noticeable than metal brackets (refer to the patient photos to see for yourself). Clear braces today are extremely hi-tech and perform as well as metal braces. Today's clear braces are very stain resistant and do not discolor like the clear braces in the past and are a fine choice for patients who want their braces to be less noticeable.
3. Invisalign

   Many of our patients who have always desired to improve their bite and smile never considered traditional braces are now happily and comfortably doing so with Invisalign.

   Invisalign is the clear way to straighten teeth without braces using a series of clear aligners made of lightweight plastic that fit smoothly and comfortably on your teeth to gradually straighten them.

   Aligners are removable but must be worn 20-22 hours every day, except for when eating, brushing, flossing, or attending special occasions. The aligners are exchanged for a new set every two weeks and office visits are typically every 8 weeks
   Invisalign can effectively correct crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth and other orthodontic problems and for the right patient be a good alternative to traditional braces. But like any removable orthodontic appliance, teeth can only move teeth if the trays are worn full time as prescribed.

   On average, treatment takes approximately one year or less.

   Beyond the near invisibility of the trays, advantages of Invisalign include the ability to be “braceless” for milestone events (but remember you have to wear them for at least 20 hours per day); aligners can be removed to brush and floss so oral hygiene can be maintained; there are no restrictions on eating and drinking; and compared to traditional braces, this system often requires fewer office visits, shorter appointments, and there are typically no "emergency" visits.

   The cost is typically about the same as traditional braces.

   Orthodontic treatment in our office is very individualized. Your treatment plan will be unique and specific to you. The type of braces recommended and the length of time that they are to be worn depend on several factors. During your initial exam, Dr. Meyer will evaluate your teeth, your bite and your smile and present to you all possible treatment options , length of treatment and treatment costs so that you may make a decision that addresses your specific concerns to achieve a healthy bite and beautiful smile.