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What Does an Orthodontist Do That a Dentist Doesn’t?

Author: Dr. Jesse Carmen

While both dentists and orthodontists attend dental school, orthodontists complete several additional years of specialized training focused specifically on tooth movement, bite alignment, and jaw development. If your concern involves alignment, Invisalign®, braces, or how your teeth fit together, an orthodontist provides the focused expertise needed to guide safe, precise, and lasting results.

Summary

  • Orthodontists receive specialized training beyond dental school, focused entirely on tooth movement and jaw alignment.
  • Treatment planning centers on bite function, jaw position, and long-term stability, not just appearance.
  • Appliance selection (braces or Invisalign) is only one part of care; the real expertise is in designing precise tooth movements.
  • Experience matters most in complex or long-term cases, where small details make a big difference in results.

When it comes to improving your smile, many people aren’t sure whether they should see a general dentist or an orthodontist. Both doctors play important roles in protecting your oral health, but their training, focus, and treatment approaches are very different.

At Carmen Orthodontics, we often meet patients across Columbus, Canal Winchester, Pickerington, and Grove City who are surprised to learn how specialized orthodontic care really is.

Dental models with braces and clear aligners

How Orthodontic Specialty Training Differs From General Dentistry

After dental school, orthodontists complete an additional 2–3 years of full-time specialty training focused exclusively on:

  • Tooth movement biomechanics
  • Growth and development of the jaws
  • Bite correction (malocclusion treatment)
  • Facial balance and symmetry
  • Long-term stability and retention

While general dentists are highly trained in preventative care, fillings, crowns, and overall oral health, orthodontists dedicate years to mastering how teeth move and how to guide that movement precisely.

What Orthodontists Focus On Beyond Straight Teeth

Straight teeth are important, but they’re only part of the equation. Orthodontists evaluate how your upper and lower teeth fit together, jaw alignment and function, and plan for long-term stability after treatment. Two smiles may look similar at first glance. However, one may have hidden bite imbalances that could lead to jaw discomfort, premature tooth wear, or shifting of the teeth over time.

Orthodontic treatment is designed to create a stable, functional bite that supports long-term oral health. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which is why you may see a dentist refer you or your child to an orthodontist if necessary.

When To See an Orthodontist vs. a Dentist

Both dentists and orthodontists are essential to maintaining a healthy smile, but they serve different purposes.

See a dentist for:

  • Routine cleanings and exams
  • Cavities, fillings, and crowns
  • Gum health concerns
  • Tooth pain or sensitivity
  • Preventative care and overall oral health maintenance

Your general dentist helps keep your teeth and gums healthy and addresses issues like decay or infection.

See an orthodontist for:

  • Crooked or crowded teeth
  • Bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
  • Jaw alignment concerns
  • Spacing problems
  • Invisalign or braces treatment

An orthodontist specializes in how teeth move and how your upper and lower jaws fit together. If your concern involves alignment, bite function, or long-term stability, an orthodontic consultation is the right next step.

Many patients benefit from seeing both a dentist for ongoing oral health maintenance and an orthodontist for specialized alignment care.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Provider for Your Smile

If your goal is to improve alignment, correct your bite, or explore options like Invisalign or custom braces, seeing an orthodontist ensures your treatment plan is built around long-term stability, function, and efficiency, not just appearance.

At Carmen Orthodontics, we combine specialized training with advanced technology like 3D digital scanning, fully customized braces, Invisalign expertise, and Dental Monitoring to make treatment precise, convenient, and tailored to your lifestyle.

Whether you’re considering care for yourself or your child, the first step is simple: schedule your complimentary consultation today at one of our Central Ohio locations, and get clear answers about the best path forward for your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a dentist provide orthodontic treatment?

Some general dentists offer limited orthodontic services such as clear aligners. However, orthodontists complete additional years of specialized training focused solely on tooth movement, bite correction, and jaw alignment. For complex or long-term cases, that specialized experience makes a massive difference in how successful treatment is.

Does orthodontic training affect long-term results?

Orthodontic training centers heavily on stability and retention planning. Proper bite correction and controlled tooth movement help support results that are designed to last, especially when paired with consistent retainer wear after treatment.

What problems are commonly missed without orthodontic planning?

Without a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, underlying bite imbalances, jaw discrepancies, or long-term stability concerns may go unnoticed. Treatment that focuses only on cosmetic alignment may not fully address functional concerns.

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What Age Is Too Late for Braces?

Author: Dr. Jesse Carmen

It’s never too late for braces! At Carmen Orthodontics, we treat patients of all ages — including those in their 40s, 50s, and beyond — thanks to advanced custom braces and Invisalign® that fit seamlessly into busy adult schedules.

Summary
  • Braces aren’t just for kids and teens; more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment for aesthetic and health reasons.
  • Carmen Orthodontics offers custom braces and Invisalign designed to work efficiently for adult patients.
  • With fewer visits, shorter treatment times, and flexible financing, adult orthodontics is more accessible than ever.
  • A healthy, confident smile can happen at any age, and we’re here to help make it happen.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m too old for braces,” think again! Orthodontic care has come a long way, and adults today have more options than ever to straighten their teeth discreetly and efficiently. Whether you’re in your 30s or approaching retirement, Carmen Orthodontics can help you achieve the healthy, confident smile you’ve always wanted.

Stylish and beautiful young blonde in beige oversize sweater. Young woman with glasses, portrait

Braces Aren’t Just for Teens Anymore

Many adults are surprised to learn they make up roughly a third of all orthodontic patients today. Why? Because today’s custom braces and clear aligners are more comfortable, discreet, and convenient than ever.

At Carmen Orthodontics, our adult patients often say they waited years to feel confident about their smile. Some never had braces as a kid, while others had treatment but experienced tooth shifting over time. Whatever your reason, we’re here to make your orthodontic journey comfortable and rewarding.

Braces That Work With Your Life

Modern orthodontic technology allows adults to straighten their teeth without putting their careers, families, or daily routines on hold. At Carmen Orthodontics, our treatment options are designed specifically to fit adult lifestyles by prioritizing efficiency, predictability, and flexibility.

  • Custom Braces: Our custom braces are designed with efficiency in mind, helping reduce unnecessary adjustments while keeping treatment moving in a predictable direction. For a deeper look at how customization improves efficiency, click to learn more about custom vs traditional braces.
  • Discreet Options: Many adults prefer orthodontic solutions that feel subtle in professional and social settings. Clear ceramic braces and Invisalign provide effective treatment while remaining far less noticeable than traditional braces.
  • Convenience & Flexibility: Tools like Dental Monitoring allow certain check-ins to happen remotely, helping limit in-office visits while maintaining consistent oversight. For additional context on how technology and customization can reduce appointment frequency, learn more about how custom braces can reduce orthodontic visits.

Together, these options allow adults to pursue orthodontic treatment in a way that fits naturally into real life without requiring major disruptions to work, family, or daily routines.

Benefits of Braces for Adults

Beyond improving appearance, orthodontic treatment can support long-term oral health and function for adults. As we age, tooth alignment and bite issues can contribute to wear, hygiene challenges, and discomfort if left unaddressed.

  • Improved oral hygiene: Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss, which can help reduce the risk of plaque buildup and gum issues over time.
  • Reduced wear and tear: Correcting bite misalignment can help prevent uneven pressure and premature wear on teeth.
  • Better function: Proper alignment supports more efficient chewing and clearer speech.
  • Increased confidence: Many adults feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and engaging socially after orthodontic treatment.

Is It Too Late for Me to Get Braces?

Age alone doesn’t determine whether someone is a candidate for orthodontic treatment. As long as the teeth and gums are healthy, many adults in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond can successfully pursue braces or Invisalign.

If you’ve had restorative dental work such as crowns or implants, orthodontic treatment is often still possible. Our doctors create personalized treatment plans that take existing dental work and overall oral health into account to ensure safe, effective results.

We believe everyone should have access to high-quality orthodontic care. Learn more about our financing initiatives to see how orthodontics can be tailored to you and your budget.

a brown-haired girl with a smile points to the braces on her lower teeth

Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late for a Confident Smile

Your smile is one of your most powerful assets, and it’s never too late to invest in it. Whether you choose custom braces or Invisalign, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We proudly serve patients throughout Columbus, Canal Winchester, Pickerington, and Grove City!

Schedule an appointment to get started.

We believe everyone should have access to high-quality orthodontic care. Learn more about our financing initiatives to see how orthodontics can be tailored to you and your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best age to get braces?

There’s no single “best” age to get braces. While orthodontic treatment often begins in adolescence, many adults choose braces later in life and achieve excellent results when their teeth and gums are healthy.

Is there an age limit for braces?

No. Age alone doesn’t disqualify someone from orthodontic treatment. Candidacy is based on oral health, not age, and many patients in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond successfully complete treatment.

Can I get braces if I’ve had dental work?

In many cases, yes. Patients with crowns, bridges, implants, or previous orthodontic treatment may still be candidates for braces or Invisalign. Treatment plans are customized to account for existing dental work and overall oral health.

How long do braces take for adults?

Treatment time varies based on individual needs and complexity. In some cases, custom braces and digital planning can help streamline treatment compared to more traditional approaches, but timelines are determined during a personalized consultation.

Are braces more difficult as an adult?

Adult orthodontic treatment can require different planning than treatment for teens, but it’s not inherently more difficult. With modern technology and customized care, adults often find treatment manageable and well suited to their lifestyles.

Is Invisalign an option for adults?

Absolutely. As a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, I have extensive experience treating adult cases. Invisalign is a great choice for those seeking a discreet, comfortable, and flexible treatment option.

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Do Custom Braces Actually Reduce Orthodontist Visits?

Author: Dr. Jesse Carmen

Yes, custom braces reduce orthodontist visits because treatment is digitally pre-planned, progress can be monitored remotely, and far fewer in-office adjustments are needed.

Summary

  • Custom braces follow a digitally pre-planned sequence, which reduces the number of in-office adjustments needed.
  • Remote monitoring allows many progress checks to happen virtually instead of in the chair.
  • Indirect bonding shortens the initial appointment and minimizes follow-up corrections.
  • Custom braces are ideal for busy adults and teens who want efficient, low-interruption orthodontic care.

If you’re wondering whether custom braces can make your orthodontic journey easier and more convenient, the answer is yes, and the biggest advantage is how much time they save you! At Carmen Orthodontics, our custom braces system is designed to reduce unnecessary office visits, streamline check-ins, and keep your treatment moving with far fewer interruptions. For busy families, students, and working professionals, that convenience can make a tremendous difference.

Close up of the smile of a young woman with multicolored braces brackets

How Custom Braces Reduce the Number of Visits to the Orthodontist

Traditional braces often require frequent in-office adjustments because the brackets are generic and need more manual fine-tuning throughout treatment. Custom braces work differently: the treatment plan is digitally mapped out from the start, which means your orthodontic visits can be spread farther apart without slowing down your progress.

Here’s how that translates into fewer overall appointments:

Key Advantages of Custom Braces:

Because custom braces follow a pre-planned tooth-movement sequence, your treatment stays on track with less hands-on intervention. That means:

  • Fewer Adjustments: Most routine tightening visits become unnecessary because the system follows a digitally guided plan.
  • Less Chair Time: When you do need to come in, appointments are shorter because fewer mid-course corrections are required.
  • Smart progress checks: Digital monitoring tools allow our team to review your progress remotely and let you know if an in-office visit is actually needed.

Who Benefits the Most from Custom Braces?

Custom braces are an excellent fit for anyone who needs orthodontic care that works around a busy schedule:

  • Adults juggling work and family: Fewer appointments mean less time away from responsibilities.
  • Teens with packed school and activity schedules: Treatment stays on track without taking time away from sports, clubs, or class.
  • Patients who prefer efficiency: You’ll receive consistent oversight with fewer disruptions to your daily routine.

Because the system minimizes unexpected visits, you get predictable, convenient care from start to finish.

 

Face of a young woman with braces on her teeth

Final Thoughts: Efficient, Personalized Care With Custom Braces

If convenience is a priority, custom braces make orthodontic treatment significantly easier to manage. With fewer in-person visits, shorter appointments, and ongoing oversight from our team, your smile stays on track without constantly adjusting your schedule.

Our doctors proudly care for patients throughout Columbus, Canal Winchester, Pickerington, and Grove City!

Want to explore pricing or payment options? Visit our financing page or talk with our team—your treatment plan and budget can work together seamlessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to visit the office with custom braces?

With custom braces, you’d typically visit the office every 8-12 weeks, compared to every 6-8 weeks with traditional braces. Plus, some check-ins can happen virtually with Dental Monitoring. You’ll still come in for key milestones, but far less frequently than with traditional braces.

What kinds of issues can be handled through remote monitoring?

Dental Monitoring allows our team to review your tooth movement, bracket positions, hygiene, and elastics progress from your smartphone. We can address most routine questions and small course corrections without an in-person visit.

What situations do require an in-office appointment?

While many check-ins are virtual, you’ll still come in for your initial bonding, occasional wire adjustments, and any issues that require hands-on care—like a broken appliance. The benefit is that most “quick checks” no longer need to be scheduled visits.

Can fewer appointments affect my treatment quality or timing?

Not at all. Custom braces actually improve efficiency and predictability, which reduces the need for mid-treatment corrections. This is why many patients finish sooner despite having fewer in-person visits.

Does Dental Monitoring replace all office visits?

No, it’s designed to supplement your care, not replace it. Think of it as a way to stay closely connected to your orthodontist without physically being in the chair every few weeks.

What happens if Dental Monitoring flags an issue?

You’ll receive a message through the app, and our team will let you know whether it’s something you can correct at home or if a short in-office visit is needed. This prevents unnecessary appointments and prevents problems from being missed.

Do custom braces reduce emergency visits?

Yes. Accurate bracket fit and controlled tooth movement mean fewer broken brackets, wire pokes, or unexpected issues—leading to fewer emergency appointments.

Can my teen still get great results with fewer visits?

Absolutely. Custom braces and remote monitoring often improve compliance because teens stay engaged through the app and get consistent, personalized feedback without needing more time away from school or activities.

Is remote monitoring hard to use?

No! The app walks you through each scan with step-by-step prompts. Most patients complete scans in under two minutes, right from home or school.

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What Is the Difference Between Custom and Traditional Braces?

Author: Dr. Jesse Carmen

Custom braces are engineered for your exact tooth shape and the specific movements your smile needs, while traditional braces use one-size-fits-all brackets designed for the “average” tooth. That difference affects treatment speed, comfort, predictability, and how often you need to come into the office.

Summary
  • Custom braces are digitally designed for each individual tooth. This leads to more precise tooth movement, faster treatment, and fewer appointments.
  • Traditional braces use stock brackets, which require more mid-course corrections and more office visits.
  • Custom braces at Carmen Orthodontics are available in both metal (KLOwen Stride) and clear ceramic (LightForce).
  • Custom braces and Invisalign® are typically the same price in our practice so patients can choose based on what’s best, not what’s cheapest.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you might be wondering: what’s the real difference between custom braces and traditional braces, and does it even matter? At Carmen Orthodontics, it matters a lot. Most orthodontists use the same stock brackets for every patient, even though no two smiles are the same. Thanks to modern CAD/CAM technology, today’s braces can be fully customized for your unique teeth and specific treatment needs. Here’s how custom braces work, and why they create a faster, smoother experience than traditional braces.

Two pairs of custom braces on dental models, one with cerulean and purple and the other silver

How Custom Braces Make the Orthodontic Experience Better

Custom braces go far beyond the standard metal brackets many people picture. Traditional braces use generic brackets that fit the “average” tooth, which means orthodontists spend extra time bending wires, repositioning brackets, and correcting unintended movements. With custom braces, everything starts correctly from day one.

Here’s how custom braces improve your experience:

  • More Precise Results: Each bracket is designed digitally to fit the exact shape and orientation of each tooth. That precision means your teeth move efficiently and predictably, rather than relying on manual adjustments throughout treatment.
  • Faster Treatment Times: Because the movement is pre-programmed using advanced software, custom braces, like our LightForce and KLOwen Stride, can finish treatment up to 50% faster than traditional braces.
  • Fewer Office Visits: Better bracket placement and planned tooth movement mean fewer emergency visits, fewer mid-course corrections, and fewer routine adjustments overall.
  • Greater Comfort: Brackets that match each tooth’s shape lead to a smoother start, less irritation, and fewer issues with broken brackets, especially compared to stock braces that aren’t made for your unique anatomy.
Custom 3-D printed indirect bonding tray held by a hand in a purple latex glove

Custom Braces with Indirect Bonding

At Carmen Orthodontics, we use indirect bonding, a technique that allows all brackets to be placed in one precise motion. What traditionally takes over an hour now takes under 20 minutes! More importantly, this method removes much of the human error from bracket placement, which improves accuracy and supports faster, more predictable results.

Who Benefits From Custom Braces?

Custom braces are an excellent choice for:

  • Busy Teens and Adults: Faster treatment and fewer visits fit easily into demanding schedules.
  • People With Complex Cases: When a case requires detailed or significant movement, precision matters.
  • Anyone Who Wants a Smoother Journey: Custom braces eliminate much of the friction and unpredictability of traditional systems.

No matter your age or orthodontic goals, our team (led by Dr. Jesse and Dr. Sabrina) creates a fully personalized plan to help you achieve your best possible smile.

Types of Custom Braces

Carmen Orthodontics offers two advanced custom systems:

KLOwen Stride (Custom Metal Braces): Engineered for speed, efficiency, and precision.
LightForce (Custom Ceramic Braces): Tooth-colored, discreet, and custom-designed for your smile.

Both options use individualized brackets and digital planning to deliver the same accuracy, comfort, and treatment efficiency.

Custom Braces That Fit Your Budget

At Carmen Orthodontics, custom braces are typically the same cost as traditional braces and Invisalign®. This allows patients to choose the treatment option that best fits their needs and lifestyle, not what’s cheapest. Flexible payment options are also available for all treatment types.

Carmen Orthodontics treatment technician smiling with a girl receiving phase 1 treatment with braces

Final Thoughts: Custom Braces Are a Modern Solution

Traditional braces still work, but custom braces work better. With faster treatment, fewer appointments, and a more comfortable experience, custom braces offer a truly modern approach to orthodontics. Our team is proud to bring this technology to Central Ohio and help patients achieve life-changing results with less time in the chair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What technology is used to create custom braces?

Custom braces are designed using a digital workflow that lets your orthodontist plan every tooth movement before treatment begins. We start with a 3D scan of your teeth, then use specialized planning software to design brackets made for your exact tooth shape and the movements you need. Your braces are then placed using indirect bonding, which ensures highly accurate placement in one precise, efficient appointment.

How do custom braces help reduce emergencies?

Because custom brackets fit each tooth more accurately, they’re less likely to rotate incorrectly, shear off, or create excess wire irritation—resulting in fewer broken brackets and fewer unexpected visits.

Are custom braces faster than traditional braces?

In most cases, yes. At Carmen Orthodontics, custom braces cases average around 18 months, much faster than the national average of 27 months for traditional braces.

Do custom braces hurt less?

Many patients report less irritation and a gentler start because the brackets fit the tooth shape more precisely and create smoother initial movements.

Are custom braces better for difficult orthodontic cases?

Absolutely. Custom brackets allow more precise control of tooth movement, which is especially beneficial for rotations, bite correction, and complex cases requiring fine adjustments.

Do all orthodontists offer custom braces?

No. Custom systems like KLOwen Stride and LightForce require advanced training, specialized scanning workflows, and digital planning expertise. Not all practices invest in this technology.

Is the bonding appointment really shorter with custom braces?

Yes. Indirect bonding allows all brackets to be placed in one precise motion, taking around 10–20 minutes instead of the traditional 60+ minutes.

Do custom braces work the same as Invisalign®?

Both are digitally planned and personalized, but braces allow for more powerful and controlled movements in certain cases. Choosing between them depends on lifestyle and clinical needs—not cost.

Do custom braces feel different on the teeth?

Patients often report a more comfortable fit because custom brackets sit flush with the natural tooth contour instead of relying on a generic shape.

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Is There a Way To Get Braces Without Spending Hours in the Chair?

Author: Dr. Jesse Carmen

Yes – with custom braces and indirect bonding at Carmen Orthodontics, you can get braces quickly and reduce overall treatment time.

Summary
  • Modern orthodontic treatment is faster due to advanced technology such as CAD/CAM planning and indirect bonding.
  • Indirect bonding makes braces application faster and an all-at-once process rather than a one-at-a-time ordeal.
  • Dental Monitoring allows Invisalign® patients to send in treatment updates at home and skip the in-office visits.
  • Professionals, students, parents, and other busy adults can benefit from shorter treatment times and less time spent in the orthodontist’s chair.

Orthodontic treatment has long been associated with frequent office visits, lengthy time in the orthodontist’s chair, and a significant time commitment. For busy adults balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities, it can be a major barrier to getting the care they need.

The good news? Orthodontics has evolved! Today’s technology allows for more streamlined and efficient treatments, some of which require fewer in-person visits than traditional methods. Here’s what you should know if you’re wondering whether you can get braces (or Invisalign®) without spending hours in the orthodontist’s chair.

Young woman with braces making a photo frame around her smile with her fingers

Why Modern Orthodontics Works Better for Busy Lives

Today’s orthodontic treatments are faster, smarter, and more precise than ever before. At Carmen Orthodontics, we use custom-designed braces and remote monitoring tools that dramatically cut down on appointment time without cutting corners on results. Whether you’re considering Invisalign aligners or braces, we offer efficient solutions built for modern lifestyles.

Custom Braces with Indirect Bonding: Streamlined and 50% Faster

Our LightForce Clear Braces and KLOwen Stride Custom Metal Braces are engineered to match the unique shape of your teeth, using advanced CAD/CAM technology. This technology, combined with a treatment plan designed by expert orthodontics, allows for incredible accuracy. That means:

  • Up to 50% shorter treatment times
  • Fewer office visits
  • More precise results

We use indirect bonding for braces, which is a modern technique that allows us to place all your brackets in one session, usually in under 20 minutes. Traditional bonding takes over an hour and places each bracket individually. Our method is faster, more comfortable, and more accurate.

Invisalign: Clear. Comfortable. Customized.

Looking for a nearly invisible treatment option? Invisalign is a popular choice among adults for good reason:

  • Removable trays = no food restrictions
  • Virtually invisible = perfect for professional settings
  • Custom treatment = designed by Dr. Jesse, a Top 1% Diamond Invisalign Provider

Plus, we combine Invisalign with Dental Monitoring and the iTero 3D scanner for ultra-precise, fast, and remote-friendly care. 

Dental Monitoring: Check In From Anywhere

What if your orthodontist could track your progress without you having to step foot in the office? With our Dental Monitoring app, that’s exactly what happens for our Invisalign patients.

This powerful tool lets you upload progress photos straight from your smartphone. Its AI-powered tracking ability identifies tooth movement with exceptional accuracy, plus our team offers any needed guidance remotely. With these abilities, you’ll only need to come in when it’s truly necessary. For busy professionals and parents, this means fewer disruptions and more control over your time.

Who Benefits From Advanced Braces Technology?

While we know at Carmen Orthodontics that every patient benefits from shorter treatment times and less time in the orthodontist’s chair, there are a few groups that especially love our advanced braces and indirect bonding technology:

  • Working adults with busy jobs
  • Students in high school or college
  • Parents with busy schedules
  • Anyone who doesn’t want to be at the orthodontist for long periods of time

If you want orthodontics to have a minimal impact on your life while still delivering superior results, advanced braces technology is an excellent choice.

Orthodontics Designed for Your Schedule and Budget

For added convenience, we offer flexible scheduling across our four convenient Central Ohio locations in  Columbus, Canal Winchester, Pickerington, and Grove City.

We also offer helpful financial initiatives, including:

  • Payment plans starting at $350 down and $149/month
  • 0% interest financing available
  • Assist patients in maximizing their insurance benefits

Final Thoughts: Make Braces Work For Your Life

While no orthodontic treatment is entirely hands-off, advances in digital technology and customized care have made it easier than ever to straighten your teeth with fewer appointments and less disruption to your routine. If you’re a busy adult considering braces or Invisalign, know that your orthodontic options with Carmen Orthodontics are designed with your schedule in mind. Whether through indirect bonding or remote monitoring, you can take steps toward a healthier smile without putting your life on hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Come Into the Orthodontist’s Office Very Often?

No. With the advanced orthodontic technology at Carmen Orthodontics, you won’t have to come into the office nearly as often as with traditional orthodontics. Options like Dental Monitoring and custom braces accelerate treatment times and reduce the need for in-office visits.

How Accurate is Dental Monitoring for Invisalign?

Dental Monitoring is extremely accurate and allows your orthodontist to keep track of your progress from wherever you are. The technology uses AI-powered tracking to keep an eye on your progress and flag any potential issues to your orthodontist early on.

Are Braces Good for Busy Adults?

Absolutely! Custom braces with indirect bonding (or Invisalign with Dental Monitoring) can be great for adults with busy schedules. While traditional braces take over an hour to be applied and require longer treatment times, custom braces at Carmen Orthodontics are applied within minutes using indirect bonding and are tailored to your smile, allowing for higher accuracy and shorter time spent in braces overall.

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Impacted Canines

An impacted tooth is a tooth that is blocked or “stuck” underneath the gum line, and does not erupt into its correct position on its own. Most often, an impacted tooth will be a third molar, or wisdom tooth, though it is a common occurrence in canine teeth as well. Canine teeth are located at the corners of the arch, next to the incisors. They have one pointed edge (cusp) which is used for holding, grasping, and tearing food. Because of the canine’s long root, they are very strong, stable teeth. Canines are usually the last teeth to erupt, and usually do so when your child is around the age of 12 or 13.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic examination by the age of seven, which allows us the opportunity to monitor your child’s teeth eruption and detect impactions early.

If your child does develop an impacted canine, a simple surgical procedure is recommended to assist the eruption of the tooth. We will surgically expose the tooth by cutting a small flap in the surrounding gum. After the tooth is exposed, we will either leave the tooth to erupt on its own, or attach an orthodontic bracket to the tooth to help guide its descent.

With early detection and combined surgical and orthodontic treatment, impacted canines can be allowed to erupt and/or be guided to the most ideal position in your child’s mouth.

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