Braces remain one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth, fix bite issues, and create long-lasting improvements in oral health and facial aesthetics. Whether you're a parent researching treatment for your child, a teen preparing for orthodontic care, or an adult considering braces later in life, it’s helpful to understand what the process involves.
This guide covers everything you need to know about getting braces—types available, costs to expect, treatment timelines, and what results you can look forward to.
What Are Braces and How Do They Work?
Braces are orthodontic devices designed to gradually shift teeth into better alignment. They apply gentle, continuous pressure to reposition teeth over time. Most systems consist of:
- Brackets — Small attachments bonded to each tooth
- Archwires — Thin wires that connect the brackets and apply directional force
- Elastics or bands — Used to help adjust bite and jaw position
As the braces apply pressure, the bone around the teeth slowly reshapes, allowing teeth to move into their ideal positions. Periodic adjustments are made to continue guiding the process until alignment is complete.
Who Needs Braces?
Braces are used to treat a wide range of orthodontic problems for both children and adults, including:
- Crowding or spacing issues
- Overbite or underbite
- Crossbite or open bite
- Protruding front teeth
- Jaw or facial asymmetry
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
Early orthodontic evaluations—usually recommended around age 7—can identify potential problems early. That said, it's never too late to benefit from braces, especially with the range of discreet options now available.
Types of Braces Available Today
Patients in Abingdon and across Southwest Virginia have more choices than ever when it comes to orthodontic treatment. The most common types of braces include:
Metal Braces
- Most traditional and widely used
- Made from high-grade stainless steel
- Often the most affordable option
- Strong, reliable, and effective for complex cases
- Customizable with colored bands for kids or teens
Clear or Ceramic Braces
- Blend in with natural teeth
- Made from tooth-colored materials
- Less noticeable than metal
- Popular among teens and adults
- Slightly more delicate than metal options
Self-Ligating Braces
- Use specialized clips instead of elastics to hold wires
- May reduce friction and shorten treatment time
- Available in metal or clear versions
- Easier to clean than traditional braces
Lingual Braces
- Attached to the back (tongue side) of teeth
- Completely hidden when smiling
- Require more precision and are less commonly used
- May cause temporary speech adjustment
Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign)
- Removable plastic trays worn over teeth
- Nearly invisible and more comfortable
- Can be taken out for eating and brushing
- Best for mild to moderate alignment issues
What to Expect During Treatment
While each treatment plan is unique, most patients follow a similar process:
- Consultation and diagnostic records — Includes X-rays, photos, and digital scans
- Custom treatment plan — Tailored to your dental and facial anatomy
- Braces placement — Takes about 1–2 hours in-office
- Regular adjustments — Every 4–8 weeks to track and modify progress
- Appliance removal — Once alignment is complete
- Retainer phase — To maintain your new smile and prevent relapse
Treatment time varies based on age, severity of issues, and the type of braces chosen. On average, most people wear braces for 12 to 24 months.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
The cost of braces in Abingdon, VA can vary based on multiple factors:
- Type of braces selected
- Length and complexity of treatment
- Whether early phase (Phase 1) treatment is required
- Retainers and follow-up care
- Insurance coverage or flexible payment options
Average costs may include:
- Metal braces — $3,000 to $6,000
- Ceramic braces — $4,000 to $7,000
- Clear aligners — $4,000 to $8,000
- Lingual braces — $8,000 to $10,000+
Many orthodontic practices offer payment plans or accept HSA/FSA funds to help make treatment more accessible. While braces are a financial commitment, they can help prevent more expensive dental issues in the future.
Do Braces Hurt?
Getting braces isn’t typically painful, but mild discomfort is common—especially in the first few days after placement or adjustments. Patients may experience:
- Soreness of teeth and jaw
- Minor irritation to lips or cheeks
- Difficulty chewing harder foods initially
These symptoms usually subside within a week. Orthodontic wax, over-the-counter pain relievers, and soft foods can help ease the transition.
What Foods Should You Avoid With Braces?
To protect brackets and wires, it’s best to avoid:
- Sticky foods — Caramel, gum, taffy
- Hard foods — Nuts, popcorn, raw carrots
- Crunchy snacks — Chips, pretzels
- Sugary items — Can lead to staining or decay around brackets
- Chewing on ice or non-food items — May cause breakage
Patients are encouraged to stick with softer foods, especially after adjustments.
What Results Can You Expect?
The goal of braces is not just a straighter smile but also a healthier, more functional bite. Braces can:
- Improve oral hygiene by aligning crowded teeth
- Relieve jaw discomfort or headaches caused by bite issues
- Boost confidence through aesthetic improvements
- Support speech clarity and better chewing function
- Help protect teeth from uneven wear or damage
With proper care, the results of orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime—especially when retainers are worn as directed.
Final Thoughts
Braces are a time-tested and highly effective solution for correcting a wide range of orthodontic problems. Today’s treatment options are more advanced, more comfortable, and more customizable than ever before, allowing people of all ages to benefit from straighter teeth and better function.
Whether you’re weighing options for your child or considering braces as an adult, understanding the process and what to expect can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
Looking for Braces in Abingdon, VA?
If you’re exploring your orthodontic options in the Abingdon area, Westfall Orthodontics offers a wide range of braces—including clear, metal, and advanced digital treatments—to help patients of all ages achieve their ideal smile. Schedule a consultation today and start your journey to better alignment with a team that understands what matters most to you.
