Braces
Struggling with crooked teeth or an uneven smile? At Denver Orthodontics & Dental Lounge, we transform your dental alignment with precision and care. Dr. Desirea Scott leads our expert team in providing personalized orthodontic treatment that addresses your unique needs.
We focus on creating comfortable experiences and exceptional results for patients of all ages. Whether you’re considering traditional metal braces, our advanced LightForce custom 3D-printed system, or exploring alternatives like clear aligners for yourself, your teenager, or your child, we combine proven techniques with cutting-edge technology to help you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve.
Understanding Braces
Braces are orthodontic appliances designed to correct misaligned teeth and jaws by applying consistent pressure over time. Unlike temporary cosmetic solutions or clear aligners that offer more limited correction capabilities, braces create permanent structural changes by gradually shifting teeth into proper alignment. Traditional systems consist of brackets attached to each tooth, connected by wires and sometimes enhanced with elastic bands. This proven approach remains one of the most effective orthodontic treatments available, addressing simple to complex alignment issues with predictable results.
Traditional Metal Systems
Traditional braces use standardized brackets and remain highly effective for treating all types of orthodontic issues. These proven systems offer durability and reliability for patients of all ages.
LightForce Custom 3D-Printed Braces
We’re proud to offer LightForce treatment, the world’s first fully personalized, 3D-printed ceramic orthodontic system. Unlike traditional braces that use standardized brackets, LightForce utilizes advanced digital scanning and 3D printing technology to create brackets tailored to each patient’s unique tooth anatomy. This revolutionary approach allows for more precise tooth movement, enhanced comfort, and improved treatment outcomes.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
Improved Dental Health
Straightening your teeth with braces significantly reduces your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, allowing for more effective brushing and flossing. When teeth overlap or crowd, they create hard-to-reach spaces where bacteria thrive. Orthodontic treatment eliminates these problem areas, creating an evenly spaced smile that’s less susceptible to decay and periodontal issues.
Enhanced Appearance and Confidence
Straighter teeth improve facial symmetry and profile, boosting self-confidence in social and professional situations. Many patients report improved quality of life after completing their braces treatment.
Better Bite Function
Correcting misalignments with braces improves how your upper and lower teeth fit together when biting and chewing. This proper occlusion reduces excessive wear on tooth surfaces and decreases strain on your jaw muscles and joints. Many patients who previously experienced eating discomfort find that proper alignment resolves these issues. Improved bite function also helps distribute forces evenly across all teeth rather than concentrating pressure on just a few.
Reduced Risk of Dental Trauma
Protruding front teeth are significantly more vulnerable to injury during falls or impacts. Braces can reposition these teeth to a safer, more natural position within the dental arch. This protective benefit is especially important for children and teenagers who participate in sports or other physical activities. The investment in treatment can potentially save you from expensive emergency dental procedures in the future.
Speech Improvement
Many speech impediments stem from improper teeth positioning that affects tongue placement and airflow. Braces can correct the underlying structural issues that contribute to these speech patterns. Patients often notice gradual improvement in pronunciation clarity as their teeth alignment progresses. This benefit is particularly valuable for young patients who are still developing speech patterns and for professionals whose careers depend on clear communication.
LightForce Technology: The Custom Advantage
Our Treatment Process
Detailed Initial Examination
Your path to straighter teeth begins with a thorough assessment by Dr. Desirea Scott. Using advanced imaging technology, we capture detailed pictures of your current dental structure to understand your specific alignment needs. For LightForce patients, we perform precise digital scanning that eliminates the need for traditional molds. We discuss your smile goals, answer questions, and address any concerns about your treatment options. This comprehensive evaluation helps us create your personalized approach.
Personalized Orthodontic Planning
After analyzing your examination results, Dr. Scott designs a customized treatment plan specifically for your teeth. For LightForce patients, we utilize advanced LightPlan software to create your fully personalized approach. We explain the recommended treatment, anticipated timeline, and investment required for your unique situation. You’ll learn about options that might suit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Clear communication ensures you feel confident in your treatment decisions.
Expert Placement Process
The application of your orthodontic appliances takes approximately 1-2 hours as we carefully bond brackets to each tooth and position the initial archwires. For LightForce patients, we use the innovative LightTray system, which ensures precise bracket placement through patient-specific bonding trays. Our team ensures your comfort throughout this important appointment. You’ll receive all necessary supplies and instructions for at-home care, including proper cleaning techniques and foods to temporarily avoid.
Ongoing Care Support
Maintaining oral health with orthodontic appliances requires specific cleaning routines, which our team thoroughly explains. Regular adjustments every 4-8 weeks keep your treatment progressing efficiently, though LightForce patients may require fewer visits due to the precision of their custom brackets. We provide practical solutions for handling common issues like irritation or loose brackets. Our staff remains available between appointments to address any questions or concerns.
Continued Alignment Monitoring
Throughout your treatment, Dr. Scott evaluates your progress through scheduled check-ups and makes precise adjustments to achieve optimal results. LightForce patients benefit from more predictable treatment progression due to the custom nature of their brackets. Once your appliances are removed, you’ll receive custom retainers to maintain your new alignment. Our commitment extends beyond removal with continued support to preserve your investment in a properly aligned, functional smile.
What Sets Us Apart
Denver Orthodontics & Dental Lounge combines advanced orthodontic techniques with LightForce 3D-printed technology and personalized patient care. Dr. Desirea Scott brings extensive specialized training and years of experience in handling everything from routine alignments to complex orthodontic challenges using both traditional and innovative treatment methods.
We respect your time with efficient appointments and flexible scheduling options that accommodate busy lifestyles. Our practice prioritizes creating a comfortable, stress-free environment where patients of all ages feel supported and informed throughout their treatment journey. Whether you choose traditional systems or our advanced LightForce technology, you’ll receive exceptional care tailored to your needs.
Ready for a smile that transforms your confidence?
Take the first step toward the aligned, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted with braces from Denver Orthodontics & Dental Lounge. Dr. Desirea Scott and our skilled team provide exceptional care using both traditional and innovative LightForce 3D-printed systems, designed to achieve outstanding results while prioritizing your comfort throughout the process. Contact our office today at 303-590-3929 to schedule your personalized consultation and discover how our customized treatment can enhance both your smile and your confidence.
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FAQs
How much do braces cost?
Every smile is unique, and orthodontic treatment costs vary significantly based on your individual needs and circumstances. Some patients may need simple corrections while others require more comprehensive treatment. Most dental insurance plans with orthodontic coverage will contribute to the cost, and we offer flexible payment plans to make treatment accessible. During your personalized consultation, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of all costs specific to your unique treatment plan.
Do braces hurt?
You can expect some discomfort after initial placement and adjustment appointments, typically lasting 3-5 days. This temporary soreness can be managed with soft foods. Most patients find that any discomfort becomes minimal once they’ve adjusted to their appliances, with only brief sensitivity following adjustments. LightForce patients often report less initial discomfort due to the custom fit of their brackets.
Can you chew gum, sticky foods, or hard foods with braces?
Regular chewing gum, sticky foods, and hard foods should be avoided as they can stick to brackets and wires, potentially causing damage or dislodging components. You should also avoid biting directly into foods while wearing braces. For fresh breath alternatives, consider sugar-free mints or alcohol-free mouth rinses that won’t compromise your orthodontic appliances.
How do braces work?
Orthodontic appliances apply consistent, gentle pressure to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Brackets bonded to your teeth hold archwires that guide this movement, while springs, rubber bands, or power chains provide specialized forces for specific corrections. This pressure stimulates cellular activity in the periodontal ligament, allowing bone to remodel around tooth roots. LightForce technology works on the same principle but with enhanced precision due to its custom design for each individual tooth.
How long do braces take?
Average braces treatment time ranges from 18 to 24 months, though simple cases may finish in as little as 12 months. Complex alignment issues might require up to 3 years for optimal results. Your specific duration depends on factors including age, severity of orthodontic issues, and how consistently you follow care instructions. LightForce technology may offer shorter treatment times due to its precision and efficiency.
How to floss with braces?
Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss with a stiff end to thread beneath the archwire. Clean between each pair of teeth using gentle up and down motions against each tooth surface. Water flossers provide an excellent alternative that many patients find more effective for cleaning around brackets while maintaining healthy gums.
What should I do if I have a pokey wire?
If a wire is irritating your cheek or gums, you can try using a clean nail clipper to carefully snip the end of the wire. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, or if the wire is in a tricky spot, give our office a call and we’ll gladly take care of it for you.
What if my braces are rubbing against the inside of my mouth?
It’s normal to feel some irritation when you first get braces. To ease discomfort, gently dry the area with a tissue or paper towel, then place orthodontic wax over the bracket or wire that’s causing the irritation. If wax isn’t your preference, rest assured, your mouth will naturally adjust over time, and the discomfort will fade.
