Types of Braces in Reston, VA

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common and widely recognized type of orthodontic appliance used to correct misaligned teeth and bite issues. They consist of several components that work together to gradually move teeth into their desired positions: metal brackets, wires, and ligatures (elastic bands). Traditional metal braces work by applying continuous pressure to the teeth, which gradually moves them into the desired position.

Clear Braces

Clear braces offer an excellent balance between effective orthodontic treatment and aesthetic considerations. They provide the same functionality as metal braces while being less conspicuous, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a popular choice for adults and teens who are concerned about their looks during treatment. At Reston Orthodontics, we use Lightforce technology, which is a customized orthodontic solution proven to reduce treatment time.

Dr. Kim will go over in your consultation why possibly ceramic (or clear) brackets are better than metal braces in your specific case.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a highly effective and increasingly popular alternative to traditional braces. They resemble clear retainers but are specifically designed to move teeth into their desired positions rather than just holding them in place. Using a series of custom-made, transparent plastic trays, clear aligners apply gentle, consistent pressure to shift teeth gradually, achieving the same orthodontic outcomes as braces.

One of the primary advantages of clear aligners is their removability, which offers significant lifestyle benefits. Unlike braces, which restrict your diet to avoid damaging brackets and wires, clear aligners can be taken out during meals. This means you can continue to enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about sticky or hard items causing issues. Additionally, the ability to remove aligners for brushing and flossing ensures that maintaining oral hygiene is straightforward and effective, eliminating the food traps that make cleaning around braces more time-consuming.

To enhance your treatment experience and provide convenience, we offer Dental Monitoring®. This innovative technology includes a scanner that attaches to your mobile phone, allowing you to take weekly scans and pictures of your teeth. These images are directly sent to Dr. Kim, who can then monitor your progress remotely. Dental Monitoring helps ensure that your aligners are fitting properly and that your treatment is on track, providing timely feedback and adjustments as needed.

One of the key benefits of Dental Monitoring is the reduced need for visits to our office. For patients with busy schedules, those who travel frequently, or college students living away from the area, this technology is especially advantageous. Instead of the typical four to six-week intervals for in-office checkups, you can extend the time between visits to every three months. This flexibility allows you to maintain your orthodontic treatment seamlessly without compromising on the quality of care.

Getting Braces at Reston Orthodontics

At Reston Orthodontics, we prioritize precision and personalized care in every step of your orthodontic journey. Dr. Kim is dedicated to ensuring that your braces are applied correctly and effectively from the start. Unlike many other practices where assistants handle the majority of the application process with only a brief check by the doctor, Dr. Kim personally spends extensive time placing your braces. This hands-on approach ensures that they are positioned accurately, setting the foundation for a successful treatment.

We also believe in thorough communication and education. Once your braces are in place, our team takes the time to go over detailed care instructions with you. We want you to feel confident in managing your oral hygiene and understanding how to maintain your braces, so you can achieve the best possible results.