Braces in Longmont, CO | Martin Family Orthodontics

Why Braces Are Still the Right Choice for Many Patients

Clear aligners have changed the conversation about orthodontic treatment, but braces still outperform aligners for many cases. If your bite involves significant rotation, severe crowding, complex jaw mechanics, or vertical movement of teeth, fixed braces typically give you a more predictable outcome with shorter overall treatment time. They also remove the variable of compliance: braces work whether you remember to put your aligners back in after lunch or not.

Dr. Martin will walk through both options at your consultation. The right answer depends on your bite, not on which option is most popular.

Types of Braces We Offer

We offer modern fixed appliances designed for comfort, efficiency, and aesthetics:

• Traditional metal braces. The standard for a reason. Today’s metal braces are dramatically smaller and lower profile than the brackets from a decade ago.
• Ceramic braces. Tooth-colored brackets that blend in more discreetly while delivering the same biomechanical control as metal braces.
• Self-ligating systems. Bracket designs that reduce friction, sometimes allowing for faster tooth movement and easier hygiene.

Which system makes sense for you depends on your case, your aesthetic preferences, and your lifestyle. We will recommend the option that gives you the best result, not the option that costs the most.

Benefits of Braces

• Predictable results across nearly every case type. Braces handle severe crowding, large gaps, and significant bite issues that aligners cannot always correct.
• No compliance burden. Braces work 24 hours a day. There is nothing to remove and nothing to forget.
• Strong control over individual tooth movement. Braces allow for precise control of rotations, tip, and torque that aligners can struggle with.
• Often shorter total treatment time for complex cases compared to aligner therapy.
• Lower lifetime cost than complications from untreated bite problems. Crooked teeth and a misaligned bite contribute to wear, gum disease, and jaw pain over time.

What to Expect From Braces Treatment

Consultation and diagnostics. Your first visit includes a complete clinical exam, iTero digital impressions, digital X-rays, and, when needed, a 3D CT scan. Dr. Martin uses this data to design a personalized treatment plan.

Bonding appointment. Placing braces typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes. The brackets are bonded to your teeth and the archwire is attached. Most patients leave the appointment surprised at how comfortable the process was.

Adjustments. You will return roughly every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. Each appointment is short, often 15 to 30 minutes. Some discomfort for a day or two after an adjustment is normal as your teeth respond to the new wire.

Treatment length. Most patients complete braces treatment within 12 to 24 months. Complex cases may take longer. Dr. Martin will give you a realistic timeline at your consultation and will keep you updated throughout treatment.

Retention. Once braces come off, retainers maintain your new alignment. Long-term retainer use is essential. Teeth want to move, and retention keeps them where we put them.

Caring for Your Braces

Most braces care comes down to two habits: brushing thoroughly after every meal, and avoiding foods that can damage brackets or wires. Hard candies, ice, sticky caramels, popcorn kernels, and crunchy foods like raw apples or hard rolls are the most common offenders. Our team will walk you through hygiene tools, brushing technique, and a food list at your bonding appointment.

If a wire pokes or a bracket loosens, call us. Most issues are quick to fix, and we keep same-week emergency appointments available.

Braces for Children, Teens, and Adults

Braces work at any age. We treat patients across every life stage:

• Children (typically ages 7 to 11). Early orthodontic evaluation often catches developmental issues that benefit from early intervention.
• Teens (typically ages 11 to 17). The classic window for braces. Most permanent teeth are in place and growth still helps treatment.
• Adults. Adult braces are increasingly common and produce excellent results. We work with many adult patients who delayed treatment as teens or who need orthodontic care prior to restorative dental work.

Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Is Right for You?

If you want a fully discreet treatment and your case is suitable for aligner therapy, Invisalign is a strong option. If your case involves significant rotations, complex bite mechanics, or severe crowding, braces are often the more predictable choice. Many patients are candidates for either. We will walk you through the trade-offs at your consultation.