Types of Braces
At Croco Orthodontics, we offer a range of modern orthodontic options to help you achieve a healthy, beautifully aligned smile. Whether you prefer the time-tested effectiveness of traditional braces or the innovative technology of custom LightForce braces, we have the perfect solution to suit your needs and lifestyle.
metal braces
Metal braces are the most common and reliable orthodontic treatment available. They consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets and we use wires that gently guide your teeth into their ideal positions over time. Metal braces are effective for correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and bite problems.
Despite their classic appearance, today’s metal braces are much smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than ever before. They’re also customizable — patients can choose colorful elastics to add a fun, personalized touch to their treatment. Metal braces are a great option for patients of all ages.
Custom lightForce Braces
At Croco Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer LightForce braces, a cutting-edge option that combines the effectiveness of traditional braces with the precision of modern 3D technology. LightForce braces are fully customizable, designed to fit the unique shape and alignment needs of each individual tooth.
- Custom 3D-Printed Brackets: Unlike traditional braces, where brackets come in one standard shape and size, LightForce braces are 3D-printed to perfectly fit each tooth. This personalized approach allows for more precise tooth movement, resulting in faster, more efficient treatment.
- Faster Treatment Time: Because the brackets are tailored to your teeth, LightForce braces often shorten treatment time. The exact fit means fewer adjustments are needed, allowing your teeth to move more directly into their final positions.
- Discreet Appearance: LightForce braces are made from a tooth-colored ceramic material, making them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Their subtle appearance makes them an appealing option for adults and teens who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment without sacrificing results.
The LightForce treatment process begins with advanced digital scanning technology to capture a detailed 3D image of your teeth. Using this scan, we design a fully customized treatment plan and 3D-print brackets that are unique to your smile. These custom brackets are then placed on your teeth, and the treatment process begins. Since LightForce braces are personalized, they work more efficiently, often leading to shorter treatment times and fewer office visits.
which braces are right for you?
Both traditional metal braces and LightForce braces are highly effective options for achieving your dream smile. The right choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Traditional metal braces are great for patients looking for a tried-and-true option, while LightForce braces are ideal for those who want a faster, more comfortable, and discreet treatment experience.
At Croco Orthodontics, we’ll work with you to determine the best orthodontic solution for your individual smile. Whether you choose traditional braces or the advanced LightForce system, you can trust that you’re receiving expert care in a modern, comfortable environment.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a straighter smile, contact Croco Orthodontics today to request your consultation. Our team is here to help you explore your treatment options and find the perfect braces for your smile!
Braces for Kids
At Croco Orthodontics, we believe that early orthodontic care can make a significant difference in your child’s long-term oral health. Starting treatment at a young age allows us to address issues early, guide the development of your child’s teeth and jaw, and ensure a healthier, straighter smile for years to come. Our kid-friendly braces are designed to be effective, comfortable, and tailored to each child’s unique needs.
why early treatment is important
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early assessment helps us detect any potential problems with tooth alignment, bite, or jaw development while your child’s mouth is still growing. While not all kids will need braces at this age, early evaluation allows Dr. Croco to monitor their development and begin treatment at the ideal time.
Early treatment, also known as Phase One treatment, focuses on addressing issues like:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Bite misalignments, such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Habits like thumb-sucking that can affect tooth and jaw development
- Jaw growth problems that could lead to more severe issues later
By catching these issues early, we can guide your child’s teeth into better alignment, reduce the need for more extensive treatments later, and promote healthier oral development.
what to expect during treatment
The process of getting braces begins with a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation. Dr. Croco will take digital X-rays, photos, and 3D digital scans of your child’s teeth. Based on these findings, we’ll recommend a personalized treatment plan that best suits your child’s needs.
Once the braces are applied, we’ll schedule regular check-ups to monitor progress and make adjustments. Our team works hard to create a positive and supportive environment, ensuring that both you and your child feel comfortable throughout the entire treatment process.
We understand that kids might feel nervous about getting braces, so we take extra care to make the experience enjoyable. Our friendly team at Croco Orthodontics explains each step in kid-friendly language, and we offer fun incentives and rewards to keep your child motivated throughout their treatment journey. We also educate kids on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene with braces, so they can take pride in caring for their smile.
If you’re wondering whether your child might benefit from braces, request a consultation with Croco Orthodontics. Our team is experienced in providing orthodontic care for kids and will guide you through the process from start to finish. With early orthodontic treatment, we can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.
Braces for Teens
The teenage years are the perfect time to start orthodontic treatment. At Croco Orthodontics, we understand the unique needs of teens and offer a variety of braces options to help them achieve a healthy, confident smile. Whether your teen is dealing with crooked teeth, bite issues, or spacing, we have solutions that will suit their lifestyle while providing excellent results.
Teens are at a critical stage of dental development. Their permanent teeth have all come in, and the jaw is still growing, making it an ideal time to correct alignment issues and bite problems. Orthodontic treatment during the teenage years can prevent more serious dental issues later in life, such as tooth wear and gum disease. A beautiful smile is a huge confidence booster!
Braces for teens offer more than just health benefits — they also help boost confidence. Having a straight, beautiful smile can improve self-esteem, especially during the socially active teenage years. Teens with properly aligned teeth are more likely to feel confident in their appearance, which can positively impact their interactions with others.
making braces fun for teens
At Croco Orthodontics, we understand that wearing braces can be an adjustment for teens. That’s why we create a fun, positive environment and offer incentives to keep teens motivated throughout their treatment. We also take time to educate our teen patients about proper oral hygiene with braces, helping them understand the importance of caring for their smile during treatment.
Here are some of our top tips for teens with braces:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing are essential for keeping teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces. We’ll show your teen the best techniques to ensure their teeth stay bright and free of plaque.
- Avoid Certain Foods: To protect braces, your teen should avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can damage the brackets or wires. Encouraging healthy, braces-friendly snacks will help keep treatment on track.
- Follow Our Instructions: Whether it’s wearing rubber bands, avoiding certain foods, or attending regular check-ups, following our recommendations ensures your teen gets the best results from their treatment.
If your teen is ready to begin their orthodontic journey, contact Croco Orthodontics today to request a consultation. We’ll work with you and your teen to find the best braces option and create a customized treatment plan that fits their needs and lifestyle. With the right care, your teen will be on their way to a healthy, beautiful smile!
Braces for Adults
At Croco Orthodontics, we understand that achieving a straight, healthy smile isn’t just for kids and teens — many adults are also seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their oral health and confidence. Whether you’re looking to correct minor alignment issues or need more extensive treatment, we offer a variety of options designed to fit your lifestyle and help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming increasingly common as more people recognize the health and aesthetic benefits of straight teeth. As an adult, correcting alignment issues can improve not only the appearance of your smile but also your overall oral health. Crooked or crowded teeth can lead to problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty cleaning your teeth properly.
Orthodontic treatment can:
- Improve Oral Health: Straightening your teeth makes it easier to brush and floss, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth wear.
- Boost Confidence: A straighter smile can enhance your appearance and give you a confidence boost, whether in social situations or the workplace.
- Correct Bite Issues: Misaligned bites can cause uneven wear of your teeth that can lead to costly dental problems in the future.
It’s never too late to invest in your smile. Our adult patients often tell us how much their new smiles have transformed their lives. We are here to help you achieve the same great results.
At Croco Orthodontics, we understand the unique needs of adult patients and are committed to making the orthodontic experience as convenient and comfortable as possible. We work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that fits your schedule and goals. From the initial consultation to the day your braces come off, we’ll be with you every step of the way, ensuring you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment as an adult, the first step is requesting a consultation with Dr. Croco. During your appointment, we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your orthodontic needs, and recommend the best treatment options for you. Whether you choose traditional metal braces or the innovative LightForce system, we’re here to help you achieve a smile that’s both healthy and beautiful.
