If you’re thinking about braces for yourself or your child, you might feel a little overwhelmed by all the options. You may wonder about metal or clear braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or something else. In our Encino office, you have plenty of choices. This blog will walk you through the main treatments you can find at NobleCare Orthodontics with Dr. Shayesteh. By the end, you should feel more comfortable picking the path that best fits your lifestyle and goals.
Why Orthodontic Care Matters
Getting orthodontic care from Dr. Shayesteh does more than reorient your teeth. It can help with your bite and how your teeth line up. When your teeth fit together in a healthy way, it’s easier to brush and floss. Brushing and flossing ward off plaque and other dental headaches (or, rather, toothaches!). A straight smile can also do wonders for your confidence. You might notice yourself smiling more often in photos or speaking more freely with others. If you live around Encino, you’re lucky to have Dr. Shayesteh nearby. At NobleCare Orthodontics, you’ll find a team that puts your needs first.
Factors to Consider
Before picking a treatment, think about:
- Age: Do you have kids? They might have different needs than teenagers or adults. Because kids’ jaws grow faster, some treatments (like metal braces) will work better for them. An adult might prefer aligners that are nearly invisible.
- Lifestyle: Consider your daily routine. Do you play sports? How about musical instruments like the trumpet? Some braces may need extra care in these cases. Are you comfortable keeping up with removable trays if you pick aligners?
- Budget: Costs can vary. It helps to ask about payment plans or insurance coverage. Our NobleCare Orthodontics team in Encino can talk you through payment details so you can figure out what works best for you.
- Appearance: While metal braces are common, you may want something less obvious. Ceramic braces and clear aligners are great options if you’d like a lower-profile look.
- Time: Some treatments work faster than others. If you want a shorter timeline, talk about that with Dr. Shayesteh.
When you keep these points in mind, it’s easier to focus on what matters most to you. Now, let’s explore the different treatments we offer.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces might be the first thing that pops into your mind when you hear “orthodontics.” They’ve been around for decades, but they’re still popular for good reason.
- How They Work: Metal brackets are attached to your teeth and then linked by wires and tiny rubber bands. The wires get adjusted over time to move teeth into place.
- Who They’re For: They’re great for many age groups. Some tougher alignment issues may respond better to metal braces than other methods.
- Pros:
- They often cost less than other choices.
- They can fix a wide range of problems.
- Kids and teens can pick colored rubber bands for a fun look.
- Cons:
- They’re not the most low-profile option.
- You’ll need to avoid certain sticky or hard foods.
- You might need to brush extra carefully to keep your braces clean.
If you don’t mind a little extra shine in your smile, metal braces from NobleCare Orthodontics could be the way to go!
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
If you like the idea of braces but prefer something that draws less attention, talk with our Encino team about clear braces. They work much like metal ones but use ceramic brackets that blend with your teeth.
- How They Work: Each bracket is made from a tooth-colored material. Wires still connect them, and over time they help move your teeth (just like metal braces).
- Who They’re For: Teens and adults who want the steadiness of traditional braces but with less noticeable hardware.
- Pros:
- Less visible than metal braces.
- Handle many of the same alignment challenges.
- Cons:
- They might cost a bit more than metal braces.
- The brackets can be slightly bigger, so brushing around them may need extra care.
These braces give you a balance between function and a quieter look. Ceramic braces could fit your style if you’d like a strong method without drawing a lot of attention.
Invisalign
Invisalign clear aligners have soared in popularity over the last few years. The trays are custom-made to slide over your teeth and shift them into better positions. They’re popular with teens and adults who want a simpler, nearly invisible way to get a straight smile.
- How They Work: Dr. Shayesteh will have you wear a set of clear plastic trays for 20-22 hours a day. Every week or two, you swap out the trays for a new set. Each tray builds on the last until your teeth move into a better position.
- Who They’re For: People who want discreet treatment. Great for mild to moderate issues and even more advanced cases if planned properly by your orthodontist.
- Pros:
- Almost invisible to others.
- Removable, which makes eating and brushing easy.
- Fewer in-person visits might be needed.
- Cons:
- They only work if you keep them in for the recommended time. If you forget to wear them or lose a tray, treatment can take longer.
- May cost more than metal braces in some cases.
- You might need attachments (tiny tooth-colored bumps) to help with tougher movements.
If you want the freedom to pop out your trays for meals or photos, aligners could be your top choice. Just remember to keep them in as directed. Otherwise, your teeth won’t move as planned.
Making the Right Choice for You
You might already know what you want: something low-key, something fast, or something easier on the wallet. If you’re not sure, a visit with Dr. Shayesteh at NobleCare Orthodontics in Encino can help you narrow it down. Bringing a list of questions to your appointment can be a big help. Think about things like:
- How long will each option take?
- Will any treatment deal with your bite or crowding the way you need?
- Which one fits best with your budget?
- Is there a type that feels more comfortable day to day?
Dr. Shayesteh will share which treatments might fit your goals and then answer any other questions you have.
Get Started With Dr. Shayesteh
Choosing braces or aligners is a big step toward a healthier, more confident smile. If you’re in Encino or nearby, schedule an appointment at NobleCare Orthodontics to talk about what’s next. Dr. Shayesteh will offer you a clear plan and walk you through every detail so you know what to expect.
