Call Now Braces Consult

Contact Us

Orthodontic Braces

  • Home
  • Orthodontic Braces

Braces Treatment at Masterpiece Smiles Orthodontics

Metal and Ceramic Braces for Children, Teens and Adults

Masterpiece Smiles Orthodontics provides personalized braces treatment for children, teens and adults. Traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces can address crowding, spacing, bite concerns and other orthodontic needs. Dr. Glenn Lewis evaluates each smile individually and recommends treatment based on tooth movement, bite relationships, age and long-term goals.

Close up of braces smile

Types of Braces We Offer

tooth characters smiling thumbs up

Soportes de metal

The most common type of fixed orthodontic appliance is traditional metal braces, made of high-grade stainless steel. Metal bands are wrapped around the back molars, and smaller metal brackets are cemented to the front surfaces of other teeth. A thin, spring-like metal wire gently guides the teeth back into alignment, fixed to the brackets with flexible elastics or metal ties. Metal braces are effective, economical, and today's versions are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than ever before.

Personaliza tus aparatos de ortodoncia

Show your personality and have fun with customized braces. Choose from colored braces bands that can be changed during adjustments, or opt for Chessmile braces, featuring brackets shaped like chess pieces. These can be arranged in any layout you choose, showcasing your love for chess.

Transparente / Aparatos de cerámica

Clear braces are a less noticeable variation of traditional metal braces. These use the same components but have brackets made of translucent ceramic material that blends with the natural color of your teeth. Popular among adults, clear braces are less visible and offer a more aesthetic option. However, they can be less durable than metal brackets, and the elastic bands can stain, although they are typically changed monthly.

Braces or Clear Aligners?

Braces use fixed brackets and wires, while Invisalign uses removable clear aligners. Both can be effective orthodontic options, but they work differently and may be recommended for different treatment needs. Visit our Invisalign treatment page for a full clear-aligner overview, or discuss both options with Dr. Lewis during your consultation.

Braces for Different Ages and Treatment Needs

Braces for Teens

Teen orthodontic treatment often begins after most permanent teeth have erupted. Traditional or ceramic braces can address crowding, spacing and bite concerns while the orthodontist monitors growth and tooth movement throughout treatment. Visit our Teen Orthodontics page for more information.

Braces for Adults

Adults may choose braces to improve alignment, bite function or smile confidence. Depending on the case, options may include metal braces, ceramic braces or clear aligners. Visit our Adult Orthodontics page for information about treatment considerations for adults.

Why Choose Masterpiece Smiles Orthodontics?

Dr. Glenn Lewis and the Masterpiece Smiles team provide orthodontic treatment for children, teens and adults using personalized treatment planning and modern digital technology. The goal is to explain your options clearly and recommend the approach that best fits your orthodontic needs.

Not sure which office is most convenient? Visit our Marietta orthodontist and Kennesaw orthodontist pages for office details, hours and directions.

Child with braces smiling

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces

Masterpiece Smiles offers traditional metal braces and clear or ceramic braces. Invisalign is a separate clear-aligner treatment rather than a type of braces. Dr. Lewis can explain which orthodontic option may fit your treatment needs and preferences.

Metal braces consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets that are attached to each tooth. These brackets are connected by a thin, spring-like metal wire that gently moves the teeth into their proper positions. Elastics or metal ties are used to fix the wire to the brackets, allowing for adjustments over time. Metal braces are known for their durability and effectiveness in treating a wide range of orthodontic issues.

Clear or ceramic braces use translucent brackets that blend with the natural color of your teeth, making them less noticeable than metal braces. They offer a more aesthetic option for adults and teens who are concerned about the visibility of their braces. While they are more discreet, ceramic braces may be less durable than metal braces and require careful maintenance to prevent staining of the elastic ties used to hold the wire in place.

Invisalign uses removable clear aligners, while braces use fixed brackets and wires. Both can move teeth, but the recommended option depends on the type of correction needed, your bite and your preferences. Visit our Invisalign page for more detailed information about clear-aligner treatment.

The duration of orthodontic treatment with braces varies depending on the complexity of the case. On average, treatment can last from 12 to 24 months. Factors influencing treatment time include the severity of the misalignment, the type of braces used, and how closely you follow your orthodontic instructions. A more accurate estimate will be provided during your initial consultation.

Yes, there are certain foods you should avoid while wearing braces to prevent damage to the brackets and wires. These include hard foods like nuts and hard candies, sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum, and crunchy foods like popcorn and chips. It's also important to cut up hard fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces to avoid putting too much pressure on the braces.

Proper care of your braces is essential for a successful treatment outcome. Be sure to brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles and plaque, using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Pay special attention to cleaning around the brackets and wires. Floss daily with a floss threader to reach between the teeth and under the wires. Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments along the way.

Yes, you can play sports while wearing braces, but it's important to protect your teeth and braces by wearing a mouthguard. We provide customized mouthguards designed to fit over your braces and protect your teeth during physical activities. A properly fitting mouthguard will help prevent injuries to your mouth and braces.

If a bracket or wire breaks, it's important to contact our office as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, you can apply orthodontic wax to the affected area to prevent irritation. If a wire is poking and causing discomfort, you can try to push it back into place with a pencil eraser or a cotton swab. Avoid attempting to fix the braces yourself to prevent further damage.

Yes, it's important to continue regular visits to your family dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will help maintain your oral health by monitoring for cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. Regular dental visits, combined with good oral hygiene practices, ensure the best possible outcome for your orthodontic treatment.