Affordable Braces for All Ages in Litchfield Park, AZ
Braces are often thought of as a rite of passage for teens and preteens — but today, many adults are choosing braces as well. Why? Because braces in Litchfield Park aren’t just about achieving a straighter smile. They also play an important role in improving long-term oral health.
Since the results of orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime, braces are a smart investment at any age — benefiting your appearance, your comfort, and your overall well-being.
At Dunn Orthodontics, we offer both traditional metal braces and clear braces for Litchfield Park patients who want reliable, effective orthodontic results. If you’re wondering whether braces might be right for you or your child, the answers below cover the most common questions about treatment, results, and what to expect.
How Do Litchfield Park Braces Work?
Braces use a system of brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. Individual brackets are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth using a strong dental adhesive. A specially designed wire is then threaded through the brackets, connecting them.
During treatment, the wires are adjusted periodically — typically about once a month — to maintain gentle, consistent pressure. This pressure moves teeth not just at the surface, but all the way down to the roots.
Even though the brackets are connected by a single wire, each tooth can be adjusted individually. This precision is one of the reasons braces are often ideal for patients with more complex alignment or spacing issues that may not respond as predictably to clear aligners.
What’s the Difference Between Traditional Braces and Clear Braces?
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires and have a long track record of effectiveness.
Clear braces use tooth-colored or ceramic brackets that blend in more naturally with your smile, making them less noticeable.
Both options work the same way and deliver the same results. Clear braces require a bit more care to prevent staining, but many teens and adults prefer them for their more discreet appearance.
What Problems Can Braces Treat?
Braces are one of the most versatile orthodontic treatments available and can correct a wide range of issues, including:
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Overbites and underbites
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Crossbites and open bites
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Gaps and spacing problems
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Crooked or crowded teeth
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Teeth that erupt twisted or sideways
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Teeth that emerge too high in the gums
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Bite-related functional problems
Many patients have more than one issue to address. Because of the way braces work, they’re often the best solution for complex cases that require precise tooth movement.
What Happens During Braces Treatment?
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your teeth and bite so we can create a customized plan. We take detailed measurements and models to map out how your teeth need to move.
Applying braces typically takes a couple of hours. Once your braces are in place, you’ll visit us about once a month for adjustments. These visits allow us to gently tighten the wires and keep your treatment progressing smoothly.
Most patients complete braces treatment in about two years or less, though more complex cases may take longer. Every treatment plan is customized, so your timeline will depend on your individual needs and goals.
Will I Need to Wear a Retainer?
Yes. Wearing a retainer is an essential part of braces treatment.
Braces move both the visible parts of your teeth and their roots. As the roots shift, the jaw bone gradually reshapes to support them in their new positions. After braces are removed, that process is still ongoing.
Your retainer holds your teeth in place while the bone stabilizes. Many patients continue wearing their retainers once or twice a week at night long-term as added protection to keep their smiles looking their best.
What Foods Can I Eat While Wearing Braces?
The list of foods to avoid during braces treatment is actually fairly small. You’ll mainly need to avoid:
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Hard or crunchy foods
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Very sticky or chewy foods
These foods can bend wires or damage brackets. If that happens, an extra visit may be needed to repair the braces and keep treatment on track.
Can Braces Improve My Oral Health?
Yes — in two important ways.
First, braces make teeth easier to clean. Crooked or crowded teeth create tight spaces where plaque and bacteria can hide. By straightening teeth, brushing and flossing become more effective, helping reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Second, braces help balance your bite. Misaligned teeth place excess strain on the jaw joints, which over time can lead to jaw pain, headaches, chewing problems, and TMJ-related symptoms. Proper alignment helps reduce this stress and protects both your teeth and jaw.
Dunn Orthodontics: A Litchfield Park Orthodontist You Can Trust
Orthodontic treatment affects your appearance, oral health, and confidence — so choosing the right orthodontist matters. As a trusted orthodontic practice in Arizona, Dunn Orthodontics is proud to help Litchfield Park braces patients achieve healthy, lasting results.
Call 602-864-0004 today to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child and take the first step toward a confident smile.