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Braces

Family & General Dentistry & Orthodontics located in University Place, WA
Braces

Braces services offered in University Place, WA


People have long trusted braces to efficiently fix nearly any teeth alignment issue, no matter how big or small. At University Place Smiles in University Place, Washington, their team uses braces to make your smile more attractive and reduce your risk of tooth decay, jaw dysfunction, and other complications. To find out if braces are appropriate for you, call University Place Smiles or book an appointment online today.

Braces Q&A

What are braces?

Braces are an orthodontic treatment that straightens your teeth to correct issues related to a dysfunctional or unattractive bite. They include two main components: Brackets and wires. Your dentist cements the brackets onto your teeth and threads the wire through them. 

At regular appointments, they tighten the wire to encourage your teeth to move toward their new position. If braces are the right option for you, the team at University Place Smiles can help you choose between metal or ceramic brackets.

During your treatment with braces, you need to be mindful of your diet and clean your teeth often. The team advises you to avoid foods like popcorn, hard candy, corn on the cob, and gum to minimize your risk of oral health complications during your treatment. Some solid foods can break your braces off of your teeth, while other foods can get stuck between the brackets and wires and cause bacterial buildup.

Which bite problems can braces fix?

Braces are highly effective in treating a vast range of bite problems. They can fix these issues whether they’re mild, moderate, or severe. The team at University Place Smiles might recommend braces if you have:

  • Underbite or underbite
  • Overjet
  • Open bite or crossbite
  • Overcrowding
  • Crooked teeth
  • Wide gaps between teeth

Getting braces to fix these issues can help you avoid more complex issues with your oral health and function in the future. If your teeth are misaligned, you’re at a higher risk of suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, tooth decay, gum disease, and speech issues. 

When is the best time to get braces?

Many patients mistakenly believe that orthodontic treatment should start when all of their adult teeth have grown in. You can start orthodontic treatment as an adult if you choose, but the American Dental Association recommends that you start getting orthodontic evaluations as early as age seven when you still have some baby teeth.

By starting your evaluations early, the team at University Place Smiles can predict upcoming alignment issues and plan treatments strategically as the teeth and jaw develop. 

Regardless of your age, the team at University Place Smiles can evaluate you for alignment issues that require braces at any of your regular cleaning appointments. 

For more information about braces and to find out if they can fix your teeth, call University Place Smiles or book an appointment online today.