Braces
Modern braces, metal or clear
Today's braces are smaller, smoother and more comfortable than the ones you remember. Dr. Croft uses 3M brackets in metal and Clarity Advanced clear, so you can pick the look that fits you.
Reviewed by Dr. Devin L. Croft, DDS, MS, orthodontist · Updated
Metal braces
Metal braces are the tried-and-true workhorse of orthodontics. They handle everything from simple crowding to complex bite problems, they're the most durable option, and kids love choosing new colors at each visit.
Clarity Advanced clear braces
Clarity Advanced ceramic brackets from 3M blend in with the natural color of your teeth. You get the control and precision of braces without the metal look, which is why they're a favorite with teens and adults.
A faster, more comfortable start
Our brackets come pre-coated with adhesive, which helps Dr. Croft place them accurately and cuts down on chair time when your braces go on. Less time with your mouth open is something everybody can appreciate.
Braces for every age
- Kids: Sometimes paired with early treatment to guide growing jaws.
- Teens: The most common time for braces, while teeth and jaws are still developing.
- Adults: Clear brackets make braces a low-key option at any age.
How long braces take
- Mild crowding or spacing: about 12 to 18 months
- Moderate overbite, underbite or deep bite: about 20 to 26 months
- Extractions, impacted teeth or more complex bites: about 24 to 36 months
Every patient is different. Growth, wearing your elastics and keeping your brackets intact all affect your time. See cost and treatment time for how your fee is set and our 0% payment plans.
Some patients with an overbite may also need a Forsus or Herbst appliance alongside their braces.
Before & After
Real braces results
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After
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After
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AfterBraces questions
Metal or clear braces: which is better?
Both work well. Metal braces are the most durable option and kids love picking colors. Clarity Advanced clear brackets blend in with your teeth, which many teens and adults prefer. Dr. Croft will help you choose.
How long will I wear braces?
It depends on your case. Mild crowding or spacing often takes about 12 to 18 months, moderate overbite, underbite or deep bite corrections about 20 to 26 months, and cases with extractions, impacted teeth or more complex bites about 24 to 36 months. Wearing your elastics and not breaking brackets keeps you on schedule.
How much do braces cost?
Your fee depends on how complex your case is and whether you choose metal or clear braces. Your insurance benefit comes off the top, and our 0% in-house payment plans spread the rest out monthly. You'll get your exact number at your free consultation.
Do braces hurt?
Getting braces put on doesn't hurt. Your teeth may feel sore for a few days afterward and after adjustments. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief usually do the trick.
What can't I eat with braces?
Skip hard, sticky and chewy foods like hard candy, caramel, popcorn and whole apples (slice them instead). We'll send you home with a full list.