BRACES in PRINCETON NJ
For Kids, Teens, And Adults
Dental braces have been around for ages, and there is a valuable reason behind that. Correcting misalignments in our teeth and jaws has always been possible because of this tried-and-tested orthodontic method. At Princeton Orthodontics, we offer more than just the braces you’ve known. With the latest advancements in the field, you have the power to choose among more discrete, practical, and comfortable braces in Princeton NJ options.
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Our Braces Options
Every smile is unique, and so is each patient and their lifestyle. Dr. Jonathan Nicozisis takes this into consideration and offers a selection of orthodontic braces that suit varying needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for traditional braces or a more discreet alternative, we have the solution for you.
- Traditional Metal Braces
- Clear Ceramic Braces
- Lingual Braces
- LightForce Braces
- Self-Ligating Braces
- Invisalign
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces have been a staple of orthodontic treatment for decades. They consist of high-quality stainless steel brackets that are affixed to the front surface of the teeth. These brackets are connected by a thin wire, which exerts gentle pressure on the teeth to encourage them to move over time.
During periodic adjustments, Dr. Nicozisis tightens the wire, applying additional pressure to continue the movement process. This controlled pressure allows for precise and predictable tooth realignment, ultimately leading to a more harmonious smile. Metal braces are perfect for:
PROS
- Efficiency and Versatility: Traditional metal braces are highly efficient at correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and misalignment.
- Durability: Made from sturdy stainless steel, metal braces are durable and can withstand the rigors of orthodontic treatment.
- Customization: Patients can personalize their braces with colored elastics, adding a fun and unique touch to their treatment.
- Affordability: Traditional metal braces are often more budget-friendly compared to alternative orthodontic treatments.
CONS
- Visibility: While advancements have made metal braces smaller and less conspicuous, they are still visible when smiling or speaking.
- Oral Hygiene Challenges: The presence of brackets and wires can make oral hygiene more challenging, requiring extra diligence to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Discomfort: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or irritation from the brackets and wires, particularly after adjustments.
Ceramic Braces
Similar to traditional metal braces, ceramic braces utilize brackets and wires to gently move teeth into their desired positions over time. However, the brackets of ceramic braces are made from translucent or tooth-colored ceramic material, making them less conspicuous against the teeth. Despite their subtle aesthetic, ceramic braces provide the same level of precision and effectiveness as metal braces.
PROS
- Aesthetic Appeal: For patients concerned about the appearance of their braces, ceramic braces offer a more aesthetically pleasing option that still delivers excellent results.
- Effective Treatment: Despite their discreet appearance, ceramic braces offer the same level of effectiveness as metal braces, providing precise and predictable tooth movement.
- Customization Options: Like traditional metal braces, ceramic braces can be personalized with colored elastics, allowing patients to add a touch of personality to their treatment.
CONS
- Cost: Ceramic braces tend to be slightly more expensive than traditional metal braces due to the use of specialized materials.
- Potential for Staining: While ceramic braces are designed to resist staining, certain foods and beverages may discolor the brackets over time. Patients must practice good oral hygiene to minimize the risk of staining.
- Durability: Ceramic braces are slightly larger and more fragile than metal braces, making them more susceptible to breakage if not handled carefully.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces consist of brackets and wires that are custom-designed to fit the contours of the back surface of your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, which are attached to the front of the teeth, lingual braces are bonded to the lingual or tongue-facing side of the teeth.
The brackets and wires exert gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually guiding them into their desired positions over time. Despite their hidden placement, lingual braces are highly effective at correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues.
PROS
- Invisibility: Because the brackets and wires are attached to the back surface of the teeth, they are virtually invisible when smiling, speaking, or eating.
- Customization: Lingual braces are custom-made for each patient’s unique dental anatomy, ensuring a precise fit and optimal results.
- Comfort: Patients may experience some initial adjustment period, but most individuals adapt quickly to wearing lingual braces and find them to be comfortable throughout treatment.
CONS
- Difficulty with Oral Hygiene: Due to their hidden placement on the back surface of the teeth, lingual braces can pose challenges with oral hygiene.
- Speech Impediments: The presence of brackets and wires on the back surface of the teeth may interfere with tongue movement, leading to minor speech impediments.
- Cost: Lingual braces may be more expensive than traditional braces due to their customized design and specialized placement.
LightForce Braces
LightForce braces represent the pinnacle of orthodontic technology. They consist of brackets that are individually designed using state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, based on detailed scans of your teeth and jaw. This customization ensures that each bracket is perfectly tailored to fit your teeth, optimizing comfort and effectiveness.
PROS
- Personalized Treatment: LightForce braces are custom-made to address your specific orthodontic needs, ensuring a tailored treatment plan that delivers optimal results.
- Comfortable Fit: Thanks to their customized design, LightForce braces offer a comfortable and ergonomic fit, minimizing discomfort and irritation often associated with traditional braces.
- Efficiency and Effectiveness: By harnessing the power of advanced technology, LightForce braces can achieve precise tooth movement more efficiently than ever before, reducing treatment times and improving overall outcomes.
CONS
- Cost: The advanced technology and customization involved in creating LightForce braces may result in higher treatment costs compared to traditional braces or other orthodontic options.
- Limited Availability: LightForce braces may not be available at all orthodontic practices, as the technology is still relatively new and may require specialized training and equipment.
Self-Ligating Braces
Unlike traditional braces that use elastic ties to secure the archwire in place, self-ligating braces feature specialized brackets with built-in clips or doors that hold the wire in position. This innovative design eliminates the need for elastic ties, reducing friction and allowing for smoother tooth movement.
Self-ligating braces utilize a sliding mechanism that allows the archwire to move freely within the bracket, providing more precise and controlled tooth alignment. This results in faster treatment times and fewer adjustments compared to traditional braces.
PROS
- Faster Treatment: By reducing friction and allowing for more efficient tooth movement, self-ligating braces can often shorten treatment times compared to traditional braces.
- Improved Comfort: The absence of elastic ties and reduced friction make self-ligating braces more comfortable to wear, with fewer instances of discomfort or irritation.
- Enhanced Oral Hygiene: Without elastic ties to trap food particles, self-ligating braces are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Fewer Office Visits: Because self-ligating braces require fewer adjustments, patients typically need fewer office visits throughout their treatment, allowing for greater convenience and flexibility.
CONS
- May Not be Suitable for Severe Cases: Self-ligating braces may not apply as much pressure as traditional braces, so more severe cases may require the latter instead.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners are custom-made trays designed to fit snugly over the teeth, exerting gentle pressure to gradually shift them into their desired positions. Patients wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks before progressing to the next set in the series. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are removable, allowing for easy eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
PROS
- Invisibility: Constructed from transparent material, they remain virtually undetectable when worn.
- Removability: Patients have the flexibility to enjoy their favorite foods and maintain regular oral hygiene practices without restrictions.
- Efficiency: Treatment plans are carefully tailored to each patient’s unique needs, allowing for predictable and timely progress towards a straighter smile.
- Comfort: Made from smooth, comfortable plastic, clear aligners minimize the risk of irritation or discomfort commonly associated with traditional braces.
CONS
- Compliance Required: Successful treatment with clear aligners relies on consistent wear, typically for 20 to 22 hours per day.
- Limited Efficacy for Complex Cases: Patients with severe orthodontic concerns may require alternative treatment modalities for optimal outcomes.
Choosing the Right Option
With a variety of braces options available, choosing the right one for your smile journey can feel overwhelming. At Princeton Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you through the decision-making process and help you find the perfect solution for your needs.
Personalized Consultation
Our journey together begins with a consultation with Dr. Nicozisis. During this visit, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns, goals, and expectations. Through a comprehensive examination, we’ll assess your dental health and discuss your braces options in detail.
Tailored Treatment Plans
Once the assessment is complete, Dr. Nicozisis will devise a treatment plan that outlines the length of treatment, type of appliance, cost, treatment instructions, and expected results. He will work with you to develop a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Expert Guidance
With years of experience and expertise in orthodontics, Dr. Nicozisis and our team of orthodontic staff are here to provide expert guidance every step of the way. He will guide you as your treatment progresses and make sure it goes comfortably and efficiently.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Schedule an initial appointment with Dr. Jonathan Nicozisis of Princeton Orthodontics to find out which option is right for your needs. Call (609) 924-7098 to set up your free braces in Princeton NJ consultation.