920 S. Hover St. Longmont CO 80501
Published on Apr 24, 2025 | 8 minute read
Have you ever caught yourself admiring someone's perfectly aligned smile and wondered what your options might be for achieving the same confidence-boosting results? In today's world, orthodontic treatments have evolved far beyond the metal "train tracks" many of us remember from years past. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or a family member, understanding the various orthodontic options available at your dentist's office can help you make an informed decision about which path might best lead to your dream smile.
Orthodontic treatments have come a long way from their early beginnings. Today's options are more comfortable, efficient, and in many cases, nearly invisible compared to treatments of the past. At Artistic Smiles in Longmont, Colorado, we offer comprehensive orthodontic solutions that can address a wide range of alignment issues, from mild spacing concerns to more complex bite problems.
Modern orthodontics focuses not just on creating aesthetically pleasing smiles, but also on establishing proper function. When teeth are properly aligned, patients often experience:
Clear aligner therapy has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet alternative to traditional braces. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually shift teeth into their desired positions through a series of progressive aligners.
How Clear Aligners Work: After detailed digital scanning or impressions of your teeth, a customized treatment plan maps out the precise movements needed to achieve your ideal alignment. You'll receive a series of aligners, each worn for approximately 1-2 weeks before progressing to the next in the sequence. The aligners apply gentle, consistent pressure to guide teeth into their new positions.
Ideal Candidates: Clear aligners work well for many orthodontic issues, including:
Advantages: The benefits of clear aligners include their nearly invisible appearance, the ability to remove them for eating and cleaning, and typically fewer office visits than traditional braces require. Many patients also report less discomfort compared to conventional orthodontics.
While clear aligners have gained popularity, traditional braces remain the gold standard for certain orthodontic challenges. Modern brackets are smaller and less noticeable than earlier versions, and colored bands can make the experience more personalized, especially for younger patients.
How Traditional Braces Work: Small brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected by wires that are periodically adjusted to apply precise pressure. This system allows for very controlled movement of teeth in all directions and can address complex alignment issues that may be challenging for clear aligners.
Ideal Candidates: Traditional braces are particularly well-suited for:
No discussion of orthodontic treatment is complete without addressing the importance of retention. After the active phase of moving teeth is complete, retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your new smile.
Types of Retainers:
The Retention Protocol: Most orthodontic professionals recommend wearing retainers full-time for a period after treatment, then transitioning to nighttime wear. Some patients may benefit from permanent bonded retainers for problematic areas. Remember: teeth have "memory" and want to shift back to their original positions, making consistent retainer use essential for long-term success.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, proper orthodontic treatment delivered by trained dental professionals offers significant health benefits beyond aesthetics. Research published in the Journal of Dental Research demonstrates that correcting malocclusion (improper bite) can reduce the risk of traumatic dental injuries and may decrease the likelihood of developing periodontal disease later in life.
Regular check-ins during orthodontic treatment are vital for:
The American Dental Association recommends maintaining regular dental cleaning appointments throughout orthodontic treatment, as proper oral hygiene becomes even more critical during this time.
Choosing between clear aligners, traditional braces, or a combination approach depends on multiple factors, including:
At Artistic Smiles, we believe in creating personalized treatment plans that consider all these factors. During your consultation, we'll thoroughly evaluate your specific needs, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach.
Understanding your orthodontic options is just the beginning of your journey to improved dental alignment. Whether you're drawn to the discretion of clear aligners, the predictable results of traditional braces, or simply need guidance on which option might work best for your situation, the team at Artistic Smiles in Longmont is here to help.
We invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your orthodontic goals and explore which treatment approach aligns with your needs. With the right information and professional guidance, you can make a confident decision about your orthodontic care.
Ready to take the first step toward your ideal smile? Contact Artistic Smiles at 303-485-8888 to schedule your orthodontic consultation today.
Experience the Artistic Smiles difference. Contact us now to book your appointment with Dr. Trey Thygerson, your expert dentist in Longmont, CO. Let us help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. Your trusted dental home in Longmont since 1998. Dr. Trey Thygerson and our compassionate team deliver exceptional care with a personal touch.
