Braces

Types of Braces

Braces are a trusted solution for straightening teeth and fixing various orthodontic issues. At Foundations Orthodontics in Rome, GA, we’re proud to offer a range of orthodontic treatments, including traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces and Invisalign® clear aligners. Modern braces are more effective and comfortable than ever, thanks to advancements in materials and design.

Metal Braces

Metal braces remain a top choice for effective teeth straightening and are known for their durability. The system uses high-grade stainless-steel brackets and wires to address everything from crowding and gaps to complex bite issues. Today’s braces are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable, with rounded edges to minimize irritation. Patients can choose from various elastic colors at each appointment, making the experience more fun and personalized. Metal braces also tend to be more affordable than other options, offering reliable results at a lower cost.

Learn More Schedule consultation

Clear Braces

Clear ceramic braces are an excellent option for those who want effective teeth alignment with a more subtle appearance. Instead of metal brackets, they use transparent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in with your natural teeth. These braces are especially popular among older teens and adults due to their cosmetic appeal. However, ceramic brackets are slightly more fragile than metal ones, making them best suited for patients who can maintain proper oral hygiene and avoid hard or sticky foods. With mindful care, ceramic braces offer discreet, reliable results.

Orthodontic technology has come a long way, making braces smaller, more discreet, and significantly more comfortable. Modern brackets feature smooth, rounded edges designed to minimize irritation to the cheeks and gums. These innovations offer patients a more seamless orthodontic experience while ensuring effective teeth movement. The combination of advanced materials and sleek designs makes braces a reliable and more comfortable option for achieving a straighter smile.

What Can Braces Treat?

Braces are a versatile solution for correcting various dental misalignments and bite issues, helping patients achieve healthier, more functional smiles. Whether you’re dealing with spacing problems, overcrowding, or more complex bite concerns like overbites or crossbites, braces can address these issues effectively. By gently guiding teeth into their proper positions, braces not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but also enhance overall oral health. Explore the most common orthodontic conditions braces can treat and how they contribute to a balanced, well-aligned bite.

An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed, often caused by prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use. Braces can gradually close this gap to create a proper bite.
When there isn’t enough space for teeth to align properly, braces expand the dental arch and shift teeth into alignment, making room for a healthier, straighter smile.
Gaps between teeth can be closed with braces, improving function and aesthetics.
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower teeth. This misalignment can result from habits like thumb-sucking or genetics. Braces help reposition the teeth and align the jaw, improving both appearance and function.
An underbite happens when the lower jaw extends past the upper jaw, causing an uneven bite. Braces work by shifting the lower and upper teeth into alignment, helping correct jaw positioning for balanced function.
A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down. Braces gradually reposition the teeth, ensuring a proper bite that prevents excessive wear and tear on the teeth.

Getting Braces: What to Expect

Starting your braces journey can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. Knowing what to expect at each step can help you feel more confident and prepared. From the initial placement of spacers to the final adjustments, each component of your braces plays an important role in guiding your teeth into their ideal positions. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements involved in your braces treatment.

Spacers are small separators placed between your molars to create space for the metal bands that will anchor your archwire. These tiny devices are temporary and typically stay in place for about a week before your next appointment. Although they can feel slightly uncomfortable at first, they play a crucial role in preparing your teeth for braces.
Brackets are small, square attachments bonded to the front of each tooth. They act as anchor points that hold the archwire in place and help guide your teeth into alignment. Brackets are available in both metal and ceramic options, depending on your treatment preferences and cosmetic goals. Though they may feel new at first, you’ll quickly get used to them as your treatment progresses.
The archwire connects all the brackets and is the main component responsible for moving your teeth. It applies gentle, consistent pressure to shift your teeth into place over time. Your orthodontist will adjust or replace the archwire during check-ups to ensure the right amount of force is being applied as your treatment progresses.
Bands are metal rings that fit snugly around your back molars and act as anchors for the archwire. They provide additional support to help distribute pressure evenly across your teeth. The placement of bands may take some getting used to, but they are essential for stabilizing your braces and ensuring optimal tooth movement.
Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are used to secure the archwire to your brackets. These elastics come in a variety of colors, allowing you to personalize your braces. In some cases, your orthodontist may also recommend wearing elastics in specific positions to correct bite alignment, making them a key part of achieving a balanced and functional smile.

What Foods Can I Eat with Braces?

Maintaining a healthy diet during braces treatment helps prevent damage to your brackets and wires while supporting good oral health. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what to eat and what to avoid:

Sticky foods like caramel and taffy can get stuck in your braces, making cleaning difficult and potentially loosening brackets. Hard candies and popcorn can cause brackets to pop off and wires to bend, delaying your treatment progress.
Enjoy apples, carrots, and raw vegetables by cutting them into thin slices or steaming them for a softer texture. This makes them easier to chew and less likely to damage your braces.
Hard breads like baguettes and crunchy chips can be tough on braces. Instead, try soft options like tortillas, pita bread, or soft dinner rolls.
Meat on the bone (like ribs or wings) should be removed from the bone before eating. Ground meats, shredded chicken, and tender cuts of beef or pork are braces-friendly options that are easier to chew.

Schedule Your Complimentary Braces Consultation

At Foundations Orthodontics in Rome, GA, we’re committed to providing high-quality orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults. Our expert team looks forward to guiding you through your braces journey and helping you achieve your ideal smile. Schedule your free consultation today!

Braces

Types of Braces

Metal Braces

Clear Braces

What Can Braces Treat?

Open Bite

Overcrowding

Spacing

Overbite

Underbite

Crossbite

Getting Braces: What to Expect

Spacers

Brackets

Archwire

Bands

Elastics

What Foods Can I Eat with Braces?

Avoid Sticky and Hard Snacks

Approach Crunchy Foods with Caution

Bread and Chips

Be Careful with Meats

Schedule Your Complimentary Braces Consultation