Traditional Orthodontics – Nashua, NH
Achieve a Healthier, Happier, and More Beautiful Smile
A tried-and-true teeth-straightening treatment, traditional orthodontics is what most people think of when they hear the word “braces.” With meticulously placed brackets and a durable archwire, our talented Nashua orthodontist, Dr. Alkhoury , can gradually guide your teeth into their perfectly aligned positions. The result? A healthier, happier, and even more beautiful smile! If you want to schedule an appointment, then don’t hesitate to reach out to our team . Otherwise, you can keep reading!
Why Choose Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics for Braces?
- Highly Trained and Experienced Orthodontist
- Kids, Teens, and Adults Welcome
- Lifetime Guarantee and Lifetime Retainers for Every Patient
How Do Traditional Braces Work?
Despite the popularity of braces, many patients aren’t entirely sure how they work. Although the technology and planning behind them are quite complex, the approach is easy to understand. In short, a small silver bracket is securely bonded to the front of each tooth. From there, an archwire is threaded through the brackets and small elastics (the colorful part of braces) are added to keep the wire in place. The pressure from the wire is gentle but consistent, gradually guiding your teeth into their perfectly aligned positions.
What Orthodontic Issues Can Braces Fix?
One of the many reasons braces are so popular is because they are incredibly versatile. They can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:
Bite Misalignment
If your bite doesn’t come together evenly, don’t worry – it doesn’t have to be a permanent concern. Traditional braces in Nashua can address overbites, open bites, crossbites, and more.
Crowded & Crooked Teeth
If your teeth overlap, you might feel a bit insecure about your smile. Plus, you may be more prone to tooth decay and gum disease. The good news is that braces can shift your teeth into their properly aligned positions, improving the health and appearance of your smile.
Gapped Teeth
Spaced out teeth are another orthodontic concern that can take a toll on your confidence and your oral health. Fortunately, even severely gapped teeth can be addressed with braces.
Caring for Your Braces
To keep your braces (and your teeth!) in tip-top shape throughout your treatment, there are a few best practices you should follow. While your orthodontist will provide you with a comprehensive list with your unique dental needs in mind, here are a few general ones:
- Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods (i.e., popcorn, whole apples, peanut brittle)
- Brush your teeth for a full two minutes after you eat (or at least twice a day)
- Floss daily
- Get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months
- Stick to mostly healthy, braces-friendly foods (i.e., oatmeal, yogurt, applesauce)
- Refrain from unhealthy dental habits, like chewing on pen caps or nail-biting
- Attend each of your follow-up appointments
Understanding the Cost of Traditional Braces
Pinpointing the cost of traditional braces in Nashua without a consultation is difficult. That’s because the price depends entirely on the patient’s unique dental needs and smile goals! The good news is that our knowledgeable team is here to help you navigate the financial side of your treatment so the process is as clear and stress-free as possible. If you’d like to learn more about the factors that impact the cost and what solutions are available to lower your out-of-pocket expenses, get in touch with our team or read on!
Factors That Affect the Cost of Traditional Braces
At your initial consultation, our highly-trained orthodontist will examine the position of your teeth and the alignment of your bite. Before providing you with an estimate of the cost, they will consider:
- The severity of your malocclusion
- If additional tools are needed, like elastics and space maintaners
- Your age (this can impact how quickly your teeth move)
- Whether you need to straighten one or both arches of teeth
Professional Braces vs. "DIY" Braces: Which Costs More?
Using rubber bands and other household items in place of professional braces isn’t a good idea for your smile or your wallet. In addition to introducing various germs to your mouth, they can move your teeth too quickly, causing them to become loose or fall out entirely. This can be both stressful to handle and costly to correct, which is why visiting your orthodontist for treatment is always the better option. If you’re concerned about the cost, then don’t hesitate to ask how we can help lower your out-of-pocket expenses!
Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces?
Good news: some dental plans do include coverage for braces! So, if you are insured, don’t hesitate to double-check your benefits. If you need any help with this process, our team is here to help too. In addition to explaining your coverage, we will handle the claims process and answer any questions you have along the way.
Options for Making Braces Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, then you’ll be happy to know that there are other financial solutions available. The first is CareCredit. A third-party financer, CareCredit allows you to choose a payment plan that works best with your budget (sometimes with little-to-no interest too!). We also have periodic special offers available to our patients.
Traditional Braces FAQs
From how traditional braces work to which orthodontic issues they can fix, we’ve shared the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get from patients on this page. If you’d like to learn even more about this teeth-straightening solution, then don’t go anywhere – you’re in the right place! To talk to one of our talented team members directly, you can give us a call so we can schedule a time for you to come in for a consultation. If, on the other hand, you’d prefer to continue your online research, then simply keep reading.
Do Traditional Braces Hurt?
While orthodontic treatment of any kind comes with some discomfort, traditional braces are significantly more comfortable today than they were in years past. Plus, there are several ways you can alleviate any soreness you experience during your treatment. For example, you might feel some tightness after each adjustment appointment, and that can be remedied with a cold compress, over-the-counter pain reliever, and sticking to soft foods. If one of the brackets or wires is rubbing against the soft tissue in your mouth, then place a piece of dental wax over the edge to prevent further irritation!
What Happens After You Get Your Braces Off?
Many patients think their orthodontic treatment starts and stops with braces. However, braces are only the first step; then it’s time to wear your retainers! This orthodontic appliance is designed to keep your teeth in their new and improved positions. Neglecting to wear it consistently can result in your teeth drifting out of alignment once more, so make it a lifelong habit to wear it each night.
Can I Chew Gum with Traditional Braces?
In short, the answer is no. That’s because chewing gum can tug on the wires of your braces, increasing your chances of experiencing an orthodontic emergency and potentially causing your teeth to shift in unexpected directions. So, if you need to freshen your breath, then consider rinsing with mouthwash or opting for a sugar-free mint instead.
What Can You Not Eat with Traditional Braces?
Since hard, sticky, and chewy foods can break a bracket or wire, patients are encouraged to adjust their diet with traditional braces. Popcorn, caramel candies, raw nuts, taco shells, and tortilla chips are just a few items on the list of dietary restrictions. Instead, you should opt for soft, nutrient-dense foods, such as yogurt, vegetable soup, mashed sweet potatoes, cooked vegetables, and soft fruits.
Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose with Braces?
When it’s time for your adult teeth to emerge, a loose tooth is exciting. When you’re going through orthodontic treatment, a loose tooth can be worrisome. The good news is that it’s completely normal. In fact, it’s a sign your braces are working! The best thing to do in the meantime is stick to softer foods that don’t exacerbate the feeling. Once your braces are removed, the sensation will subside as your jawbone reabsorbs and solidifies.