Braces in Gibsonia & Pittsburgh, PA
Correct Tooth Position and Bite Function with Orthodontic Treatment
Braces are used to guide teeth into proper position over time, improving both appearance and how the bite functions. At Chips Dental Associates, orthodontic treatment is planned to address spacing, crowding, and bite irregularities using controlled, gradual movement for patients in Gibsonia and Pittsburgh, PA.
What Are Braces?
Braces are a fixed orthodontic system made of brackets and wires that apply consistent pressure to reposition teeth. This method allows for precise correction of spacing and bite issues that cannot be addressed with cosmetic treatments alone.
Orthodontic care is often included within cosmetic dentistry when improving both function and appearance is the goal.
What Braces Can Address
Braces are commonly used for:
- Crowding or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Rotated or unevenly positioned teeth
- Jaw alignment concerns affecting function
How Braces Treatment Progresses
- Initial consultation and diagnostic evaluation
- Placement of brackets and connecting wires
- Periodic adjustments to guide tooth movement
- Monitoring changes in position and bite
- Removal of braces once correction is complete
After treatment, retainers are used to maintain results.
Treatment Timeline
The length of treatment depends on case complexity:
- Mild cases may require shorter durations
- More involved corrections take longer
- Most treatments range from several months to a few years
Regular visits are necessary to maintain progress.
Cost of Braces
The cost of braces depends on:
- Severity of the condition
- Duration of treatment
- Type of orthodontic system used
Insurance may cover part of orthodontic care. Payment details are available on the patient information page.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces?
Braces may be recommended for:
- Children, teens, and adults with spacing or bite concerns
- Patients needing comprehensive correction
- Individuals seeking long-term functional improvement
Who Is NOT a Candidate for Braces?
Braces may not be the first choice for:
- Minor cosmetic concerns without functional impact
- Patients seeking a removable or less visible option
- Cases better suited for alternative orthodontic methods
In these situations, clear aligners may be considered.
Risks and Considerations
Braces require ongoing care and commitment. Considerations include:
- Temporary soreness after adjustments
- Increased attention to brushing and flossing
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage brackets
- Longer treatment timelines for complex cases
- Retainer use after treatment to maintain results
Braces Compared to Other Options
- Braces vs Clear Aligners: Braces are fixed and effective for complex corrections; aligners are removable and more discreet
- Braces vs Veneers: Veneers improve appearance without repositioning teeth
- Braces vs No Treatment: Untreated bite issues can lead to uneven wear and hygiene challenges
Alternatives to Braces
Depending on the case, alternatives may include:
- Clear aligners for mild to moderate corrections
- Cosmetic treatments for surface-level concerns
- Combined orthodontic approaches for complex cases
Each option is evaluated based on function, stability, and long-term results.
Clinical Approach at Chips Dental Associates
Orthodontic planning focuses on both tooth positioning and bite function. Dr. Timothy Chips, Dr. John Chips, Dr. Lutfiie Abliaieva, and Dr. Silvia M. Dunn evaluate each case to determine the most effective approach for long-term stability and oral health.
FAQs
How long do braces take?
Treatment time varies based on complexity, typically ranging from several months to a few years.
Do braces cause discomfort?
Some soreness may occur after adjustments, but it is usually temporary.
Are braces only for younger patients?
No, orthodontic treatment is available for adults as well.
How often are adjustments needed?
Appointments are usually scheduled every few weeks to guide progress.
What happens after braces are removed?
Retainers are used to keep teeth in their corrected positions.
Begin Orthodontic Treatment with a Clear Plan
Braces provide a structured approach to correcting tooth position and bite function. Early evaluation helps determine the most effective path forward and sets expectations for treatment duration and results.
Chips Dental Associates provides orthodontic care at both locations:
Gibsonia Office
5615 William Flynn Highway, Gibsonia, PA 15044
(724) 443-5710
Pittsburgh Office
100 McKnight Park Drive, Suite 106, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
(412) 364-7144
To request an appointment, visit the contact page.