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Types of Braces
At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we understand that every patient’s smile is unique, and so are their orthodontic needs. That’s why we offer a variety of braces options designed to provide effective results while accommodating your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a classic, reliable solution or a more discreet approach, we have an orthodontic treatment option that’s perfect for you.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces have stood the test of time as one of the most effective and versatile methods for straightening teeth. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these braces use brackets and wires to gradually guide teeth into their ideal positions. Modern metal braces are sleeker, smaller, and more comfortable than ever before, making them a popular choice for patients of all ages.
Metal braces are highly effective for treating even the most complex orthodontic cases, including significant crowding, spacing issues, and bite misalignments. The system’s durability and precision allow for consistent, predictable results.
Patients can also personalize their braces by selecting colorful elastic bands for their brackets, adding a fun and unique touch to their treatment. Regular adjustments keep the treatment progressing efficiently, with most patients completing their journey in 18-24 months, depending on their specific needs.
If you’re looking for a proven solution to achieve a straighter smile, traditional metal braces are an excellent choice.
Clear Braces
For patients who want the effectiveness of traditional braces but with a more discreet appearance, clear braces offer the perfect solution. These braces use brackets made from ceramic or tooth-colored material, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth for a less noticeable look.
Clear braces are a popular option for teens and adults who are mindful of their appearance during treatment. They provide the same reliable results as metal braces but with an aesthetic advantage, making them ideal for patients who need comprehensive care without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.
While the brackets are less visible, clear braces remain durable and effective. Regular maintenance, such as avoiding stain-causing foods and beverages, ensures that the brackets retain their natural look throughout treatment.
Clear braces are a fantastic choice if you’re seeking a balance between functionality and discretion.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Both metal braces and clear braces are highly effective at creating beautiful, healthy smiles. The right choice depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and orthodontic needs. During your consultation, Dr. Johnson will assess your smile, discuss your goals, and help you decide which type of braces is best for you.
At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted with the treatment that fits you best. Whether you choose traditional metal braces or clear braces, you can trust our expertise and personalized care every step of the way.
Braces For Kids
At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we believe that a beautiful, healthy smile starts with early care. Braces for kids are not just about achieving straight teeth — they also play a vital role in guiding proper jaw development, creating space for permanent teeth, and addressing orthodontic issues before they become more complex. By starting treatment at the right time, we can set the foundation for lifelong oral health and confidence.
When Should Kids Get Braces?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. By this age, their permanent teeth are beginning to come in, and their jaw is still growing. An early evaluation allows us to identify potential problems, such as crowding, spacing, or bite misalignments, and determine the best time to start treatment.
Not all kids will need braces right away, and in many cases, we may monitor their growth until the time is right. For others, early treatment can address specific concerns and make future orthodontic care shorter and more effective.
Benefits of Braces for Kids
Braces provide more than just a straight smile — they help ensure that your child’s teeth and jaw develop properly, preventing problems that could affect their oral health later in life. Early orthodontic care can:
- Correct bite issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
- Create space for permanent teeth, reducing the need for extractions.
- Address habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting that can impact dental development.
- Improve speech and chewing function.
- Boost your child’s confidence by giving them a smile they’re proud to show off.
We understand that visiting the orthodontist can feel intimidating for kids, which is why we’ve designed our offices in Spokane and Liberty Lake to be welcoming and stress-free. Our team works hard to make each visit a positive experience, explaining the process in an age-appropriate way and celebrating milestones along the way.
From the first consultation to the day the braces come off, we’re here to support your child’s orthodontic journey with care and expertise.
Braces For Teens
The teenage years are an ideal time for orthodontic treatment. At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we specialize in creating custom plans for teens, ensuring their journey to a straighter smile is as effective and enjoyable as possible. Braces can address common issues like crooked teeth, overcrowding, or bite misalignments, helping your teen achieve a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
Why Are Braces Ideal for Teens?
During adolescence, most permanent teeth are in place, and the jaw is still growing, making it an optimal time to correct orthodontic issues. Treating these concerns early can prevent more serious problems in adulthood, such as excessive wear on teeth, gum disease, or jaw pain. Braces for teens not only create beautifully aligned smiles but also set the stage for long-term oral health.
Life with Braces: What Teens Can Expect
We understand that teens have busy lives filled with school, sports, and social activities, so we strive to make living with braces as simple and stress-free as possible. Here are some key aspects of life with braces that we help teens navigate:
Eating with Braces
While there are some adjustments to be made, teens can still enjoy their favorite foods with a few precautions. We recommend avoiding sticky, hard, or chewy foods like gum, popcorn, and caramel to protect their braces. Encouraging softer options and cutting food into smaller pieces can help make eating easier.
Caring for Braces
Good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Teens should brush after every meal and floss daily using tools like floss threaders or water flossers to clean around brackets and wires. We provide tips and demonstrations to ensure they feel confident in their care routine.
Staying Active
Braces don’t have to slow teens down. For those involved in sports, we recommend wearing a custom mouthguard to protect their teeth and braces during activities. Teens playing musical instruments typically adapt quickly to wearing braces and can continue to perform comfortably.
Adjusting to the Look & Feel
It’s normal for teens to feel a little self-conscious at first, but most adjust to wearing braces quickly. We encourage them to make their braces fun and personal by choosing colorful bands to match their style or school spirit.
Support Every Step of the Way
At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we work hard to ensure teens feel comfortable and confident throughout their treatment. Our caring team is here to answer questions, make adjustments, and celebrate milestones as they progress toward their new smile. We’re committed to helping teens embrace life with braces and achieve results they’ll love for years to come.
Braces For Adults
Orthodontic care isn’t just for kids and teens — more adults than ever are choosing braces to enhance their smiles and improve their oral health. At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we understand the unique needs and concerns of adult patients and offer treatment options designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you’re correcting long-standing alignment issues or addressing changes in your smile later in life, braces can help you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve.
Why Consider Braces as an Adult?
Life changes, and so do your teeth. Over time, you may notice shifting, crowding, or spacing that wasn’t there before. These changes can affect your confidence and oral health. Orthodontic treatment as an adult addresses these issues, improving the function and appearance of your teeth while preventing potential problems like:
- Excessive wear on teeth due to misalignment.
- Difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene, leading to decay or gum disease.
- Jaw pain or discomfort caused by bite issues.
For adults who never had the opportunity to straighten their teeth in childhood, braces offer the chance to finally achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. It’s never too late to prioritize your oral health and confidence.
The Benefits of Adult Orthodontics
Straightening your teeth isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about improving your oral health and quality of life. Orthodontic treatment can:
- Enhance your ability to chew and speak properly.
- Make it easier to clean between teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Relieve stress on your jaw and reduce discomfort from misalignment.
- Boost your self-esteem with a smile you’re proud to share.
At Josh Johnson Orthodontics, we tailor every treatment plan to your unique needs and goals, ensuring you achieve results that fit your life.
