Treatment Options

Orthodontic Treatment Braces in Denver, CO

Whether your child or teenager needs orthodontic treatment or you are an adult looking to enhance your smile, we’ve got you covered. At Helm Orthodontics, Dr. T.C. Hardy treats patients of all ages, and he recognizes that each person has unique needs. That’s why we offer a full range of treatment options designed to give you the most effective and comfortable orthodontic experience possible. Addressing dental conditions, such as cavities, before starting orthodontic treatment is crucial for optimizing the effectiveness and comfort of braces.

A beautifully aligned smile not only enhances your appearance but also contributes to better oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Hardy’s comprehensive approach to orthodontic care focuses on both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your smile, ensuring lasting results that improve your confidence and overall wellbeing. Early orthodontic treatment, including evaluations around age 7, allows for the identification of potential dental issues and the implementation of interceptive treatments, simplifying future orthodontic interventions and promoting long-term oral health.

Treatment Options for Every Need

Dr. Hardy offers several orthodontic solutions at Helm Orthodontics, each designed to address specific alignment issues while accommodating your lifestyle preferences. During your consultation, he will thoroughly evaluate your dental condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for your unique situation. Braces can treat conditions like crooked teeth, crowded teeth, and impacted teeth.

Our practice features treatments that balance effectiveness with comfort and appearance. The options we provide are suitable for patients of all ages, from children needing early intervention to adults seeking to improve their smile later in life.

We offer these popular orthodontic solutions at our Denver office:

• Metal Braces: Our most popular option whether you want to keep it simple or have fun choosing a new color at each appointment.
• Clear Braces: Our most unnoticeable braces option. They work like metal braces but offer a more esthetic appearance for teens and adults.
• Invisalign®: A series of customized, clear trays or aligners (no braces or wires) that are programmed to move your teeth into alignment. It’s a great option if you want a virtually unnoticeable treatment.
• WildSmile® Braces: Kids love personalizing their treatment by choosing from fun-shaped braces such as flowers, hearts, footballs, and stars.

The American Dental Association recommends that children be evaluated by age 7 to identify potential dental issues early on. This early assessment allows Dr. Hardy to monitor dental development and determine the optimal time for treatment. By addressing alignment issues at the appropriate stage of development, many patients experience more efficient treatment with better long-term results.

Types of Braces

When it comes to straightening teeth, there are several types of braces to choose from, each with its own set of advantages. Traditional metal braces are the most common and are made of durable stainless steel. These braces are highly effective and can be customized with colorful rubber bands, making them a popular choice for children and teens.

Ceramic braces offer a more aesthetic option, as they are made from a tooth-colored material that blends in with your natural teeth. This makes them less noticeable than traditional metal braces, appealing to adults and teens who are concerned about the appearance of their braces.

Lingual braces take discretion a step further by being attached to the back of the teeth, making them completely invisible from the front. This option is ideal for those who want the benefits of braces without the visible hardware.

Self-ligating braces use a special type of bracket that reduces friction and allows for more efficient tooth movement. These braces can be either metal or ceramic and often result in shorter treatment times and fewer adjustments.

The Science Behind Traditional Metal Braces

Orthodontic treatment works through the application of gentle, consistent pressure on teeth over time. This pressure gradually shifts teeth into their proper positions by remodeling the bone surrounding them. Dr. Hardy carefully plans this process using advanced diagnostic tools to create a precise roadmap for your treatment, explaining the mechanics of how braces work, including the roles of brackets, archwires, and elastic bands.

Traditional metal braces remain one of the most reliable and effective methods for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues. These braces consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth, connected by a wire that Dr. Hardy adjusts periodically to guide teeth into alignment. However, potential issues such as broken braces, loose bands, or protruding wires can occur. While these rarely require immediate emergency care, it is important to contact your orthodontist for repairs and follow their guidance on handling the situation until then. Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than those of previous generations.

For patients seeking a more discreet option, clear braces function similarly to metal braces but feature ceramic brackets that blend with your natural tooth color. This option provides the effectiveness of traditional braces with a less noticeable appearance, making them particularly popular among adult patients and teens concerned about aesthetics. Additionally, dental wax can be used to cover sharp areas of braces that may cause discomfort, providing relief especially after adjustments or when dealing with canker sores.

Regular adjustments are a crucial part of orthodontic treatment. During these appointments, Dr. Hardy monitors your progress and makes necessary modifications to keep your treatment on track. These visits typically occur every 4-8 weeks, depending on your specific treatment plan and needs.

Invisalign® Clear Aligner Treatment

Invisalign® has revolutionized orthodontic treatment by offering a nearly invisible alternative to traditional braces. This system uses a series of clear, removable aligners custom-made for your teeth to gradually shift them into proper alignment. Dr. Hardy has extensive experience with Invisalign® and can determine if this option is suitable for your particular orthodontic needs. Additionally, Invisalign aligners are quite affordable, with various payment options such as FSA, HSA, financing plans, and insurance coverage available to help manage the costs.

One significant advantage of Invisalign® is the convenience it offers. The aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth, eliminating many of the dietary restrictions associated with traditional braces. This flexibility makes Invisalign® particularly appealing to adult patients and teenagers with active lifestyles. When comparing braces cost, Invisalign aligners can sometimes be more affordable than traditional braces, depending on the complexity and duration of the treatment.

The Invisalign® treatment process begins with a detailed digital scan of your teeth, allowing Dr. Hardy to create a 3D model and map out the precise movement of each tooth. This technology enables you to preview your expected results before treatment even begins. Most patients receive a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks, with each set advancing your teeth closer to their ideal positions.

While Invisalign® can effectively treat many orthodontic issues, Dr. Hardy will determine if it’s the right solution for your specific needs during your consultation. Some complex cases may achieve better results with traditional braces, highlighting the importance of an experienced orthodontist’s evaluation.

Cost and Financing

The cost of orthodontic treatment can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of braces, the severity of the dental issue, and the geographic location of the practice. On average, traditional metal braces can cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Ceramic braces and clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, tend to be more expensive, with costs ranging from $4,000 to $10,000.

Many orthodontic practices offer financing options and payment plans to make treatment more affordable. These plans can spread the cost over several months or years, easing the financial burden. Additionally, some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of orthodontic treatment, so it’s worth checking with your provider to see what benefits are available.

Do Braces Hurt?

Getting braces can cause some discomfort, but the pain is usually mild and temporary. The most common sensation is a feeling of pressure on the teeth and gums, which can lead to soreness. This discomfort typically occurs after the braces are first applied and after each adjustment.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this soreness. Additionally, orthodontic wax can be applied to the brackets and wires to reduce irritation and prevent sores inside the mouth. It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions and attend regular appointments to ensure that the braces are fitting properly and to make any necessary adjustments.

Orthodontic Treatment for All Ages

Contrary to common belief, orthodontic treatment isn’t just for adolescents. Dr. Hardy regularly treats adults seeking to improve their smile and overall oral health. Adult treatment can address longstanding alignment issues or correct teeth that have shifted over time, even for those who had braces earlier in life. Braces can correct bad bites and improve jaw alignment, making them a valuable option for adults as well.

Children typically begin orthodontic treatment between ages 9-14, when permanent teeth are emerging but jaw growth is still occurring. This timing allows Dr. Hardy to guide dental development and address alignment issues at an optimal stage. However, some children benefit from early intervention treatments that begin around age 7-8 to correct serious problems and potentially reduce the need for extensive treatment later. Aligning both upper and lower teeth is crucial during this developmental phase to ensure a proper bite and overall dental health.

Teenagers represent a significant portion of orthodontic patients, with treatment typically focusing on comprehensive correction of alignment and bite issues. Many teenagers wear braces to correct alignment issues with their upper and lower teeth. Dr. Hardy understands the social concerns many teens have about braces and offers options like clear braces and Invisalign® that provide effective treatment with less visual impact.

Regardless of your age or orthodontic needs, Dr. Hardy and his skilled orthodontic team are prepared to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Each treatment plan is customized to address your specific concerns while accommodating your lifestyle and preferences.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are crucial for the success of your orthodontic treatment. Patients should brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Flossing daily and rinsing with mouthwash can also help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

It’s important to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can damage the braces, such as caramel, gum, and hard candies. Additionally, sugary beverages like sports drinks should be limited, as they can contribute to tooth decay.

Regular appointments with your orthodontist are essential to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly and that you achieve the best possible results.

Contact Us for Orthodontic Care

Dr. T.C. Hardy spent 2-3 additional years training in orthodontic programs beyond dental school to offer you the best science and technology can provide. He commits 100% of his practice time to those specific needs and to corresponding continuing education that keeps him ahead of the game.

We invite you to contact us at 303-371-0371 to learn more about our orthodontic treatment options in Denver, Colorado, and schedule your consultation. Our practice offers options for families with multiple members needing orthodontic care, including potential discounts and flexible payment plans. Dr. Hardy will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan designed to give you a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Request an appointment today to begin your journey toward the confident smile you deserve.