If you're considering braces for yourself or your child, you likely have dozens of questions running through your mind: How do they work? How long will treatment take? Will they hurt? What about the cost? After treating thousands of patients since 2008 at Varble Orthodontics, I've heard every question and concern imaginable and we’re here to answer them all.
This complete guide to braces is designed to give you comprehensive, honest information about orthodontic treatment. Whether you're a parent researching options for your child, a teen curious about what braces are really like, or an adult wondering if it's too late to get the smile you've always wanted, you'll find the answers you need here.
At Varble Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves a great smile, and that the path to achieving it should be accessible, comfortable, and as convenient as possible. That's why we've invested in the latest technology, including DentalMonitoring, which allows us to track your progress remotely and reduce the number of office visits you need. We've also designed our practice around the needs of busy St. Louis families, with two convenient locations in Creve Coeur and St. Peters.
In this guide, we'll walk through everything from the science behind how braces work to what your first day with braces will be like. We'll discuss different types of braces, the complete treatment process, costs and financing, and what life is really like with braces. By the end, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to take the next step toward your perfect smile.
What Are Braces?
Braces are orthodontic devices that use gentle, constant pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. While most people think of braces as purely cosmetic, they actually serve an important functional purpose: creating a healthy bite that allows your teeth, jaws, and muscles to work together properly.
The Components of Braces
Modern braces consist of several key components working together:
- Brackets: These small squares are bonded directly to each tooth and serve as handles that hold the archwire. Today's brackets are smaller and more comfortable than ever before.
- Archwire: This thin metal wire connects all the brackets and provides the force that moves your teeth. We adjust or change this wire at each appointment to continue guiding your teeth.
- Ligatures (or self-ligating clips): Traditional braces use small elastic bands to hold the wire in the bracket, while modern self-ligating braces use a built-in clip mechanism.
- Bands: Metal bands are sometimes placed around back molars to provide additional anchorage.
- Elastics (rubber bands): These small rubber bands connect upper and lower teeth to help correct bite issues.
How Braces Actually Move Your Teeth
The science behind braces is fascinating. When we apply gentle pressure to a tooth, it creates a response in the bone and tissue surrounding the tooth root. On the side where pressure is applied, bone cells called osteoclasts break down bone tissue. On the opposite side, cells called osteoblasts build new bone. This biological process allows the tooth to gradually move through the jawbone into its new position.
This is why orthodontic treatment takes time. We're literally reshaping the bone that supports your teeth. Trying to move teeth too quickly can damage the roots and surrounding structures, which is why patience is essential for healthy, lasting results.
What Problems Can Braces Fix?
Braces can address a wide range of orthodontic issues:
- Crowding: When teeth overlap or twist because there isn't enough room
- Spacing: Gaps between teeth
- Overbite: Upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth too much
- Underbite: Lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth
- Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down
- Open bite: Upper and lower teeth don't meet when the mouth is closed
- Misaligned midlines: The center of your upper and lower teeth don't line up
Modern Braces vs. Braces of the Past
If your memory of braces comes from the 1990s or early 2000s, you'll be pleased to know that today's braces are dramatically different. At Varble Orthodontics, we use advanced self-ligating systems like Damon Ultima, which means:
- Smaller, more comfortable brackets
- Faster tooth movement with less discomfort
- Fewer appointments needed
- Better oral hygiene since there are no elastic ties to trap food
- Often shorter overall treatment times
Additionally, our use of DentalMonitoring technology allows us to track your progress between appointments using a smartphone app, meaning many check-ins can happen virtually rather than requiring you to come into the office.
Types of Braces Available
One of the most common questions I hear is, "What type of braces should I get?" The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The best option depends on your specific orthodontic needs, lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. Let's explore the options.
Metal Braces (Traditional/Self-Ligating)
What They Are
Metal braces are what most people picture when they think of orthodontic treatment. These braces use metal brackets bonded to the front of your teeth, connected by a metal archwire. At Varble Orthodontics, we primarily use self-ligating metal braces, which use a specialized clip instead of elastic ties to hold the wire in place.
Who They're Best For
Metal braces are an excellent choice for patients of all ages and can treat even the most complex orthodontic cases. They're particularly popular with kids and teens who enjoy personalizing their braces with colored elastic ties (if using traditional brackets), and they're often the most cost-effective option.
Pros:
- Most effective for complex cases
- Typically the fastest treatment option
- Most affordable type of braces
- Very durable and rarely break
- With self-ligating brackets: easier to keep clean, more comfortable, often faster treatment
Cons:
- Most visible option
- Can cause some temporary discomfort after adjustments
- Require dietary restrictions
- May be perceived as less "adult-friendly" (though many adults successfully wear them)
Average Treatment Time
Most patients wear metal braces for 18-24 months, though this varies significantly based on the complexity of your case. With our DentalMonitoring program, we can often optimize treatment and potentially reduce overall time.
Ceramic Braces (Clear Brackets)
What They Are
Ceramic braces work exactly like metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in with your natural teeth. The archwire can also be tooth-colored for the most discreet appearance possible.
Who They're Best For
Ceramic braces are popular with image-conscious teens and adults who want effective treatment without the obvious appearance of metal braces. They work well for most orthodontic cases.
Pros:
- Much less noticeable than metal braces
- Just as effective as metal braces
- Fixed in place (unlike clear aligners that must be removed)
- Can treat complex cases
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than metal braces
- Brackets can stain if not properly cared for
- Slightly larger than metal brackets
- A bit more fragile than metal (though still quite durable)
Cost Comparison
Ceramic braces typically cost $500-$1,000 more than metal braces. Many patients find this worth the investment for the more aesthetic appearance, especially if they're in a profession where appearance matters.
Clear Aligners
Brief Overview
Clear aligners (like Invisalign) use a series of clear, removable trays to gradually move your teeth. While we offer clear aligners at Varble Orthodontics and have a complete guide dedicated to this option, it's worth understanding when braces might be the better choice.
When Aligners Are Better Than Braces
- Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
- Adult patients with professional image concerns
- Patients who are highly motivated and responsible
- Cases requiring limited tooth movement
When Braces Are Better Than Aligners
- Complex bite issues
- Severe crowding or rotations
- Cases requiring significant vertical tooth movement
- Younger patients who might not wear aligners consistently
- Situations where precise control over tooth movement is critical
At Varble Orthodontics, I'll always recommend the treatment option that will give you the best results for your specific case. Sometimes that's braces, sometimes it's clear aligners, and sometimes either option would work well—in which case, we'll discuss your preferences and lifestyle factors to make the best choice together.
The Braces Process & What to Expect
One of the best ways to feel comfortable about getting braces is to know exactly what to expect. Let me walk you through the entire journey, from your first consultation to the day your braces come off.
Initial Consultation
Your orthodontic journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at either our Creve Coeur or St. Peters location. This first visit is about gathering information and creating a personalized treatment plan.
What Happens at the First Visit:
- Comprehensive Examination: I'll examine your teeth, bite, and jaw relationship to understand what needs to be corrected.
- Digital Records: We take photos, x-rays, and 3D scans of your teeth. These records help us plan your treatment and track your progress.
- Treatment Discussion: I'll explain what orthodontic issues we've identified, how we can correct them, and what treatment options are best for your situation.
- Timeline and Cost: You'll receive an estimated treatment timeline and a clear breakdown of costs and payment options.
This appointment typically takes 45-60 minutes. We want you to leave feeling informed and confident about moving forward—there's never pressure to commit immediately. Take time to think about it, discuss it with family, and reach out with any additional questions.
Getting Braces On (Bonding Day)
Once you've decided to move forward, we'll schedule your bonding appointment. This is when your braces are actually placed on your teeth.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Cleaning: We thoroughly clean and dry each tooth
- Bonding: A special adhesive is applied to each tooth, and brackets are carefully positioned
- Curing: A special light hardens the adhesive, bonding the brackets firmly to your teeth
- Wire Placement: The archwire is placed through the brackets and secured
- Final Adjustments: We make any necessary adjustments to ensure everything is comfortable
How Long It Takes: The bonding appointment usually takes 1-2 hours. Yes, it's a longer appointment, but we take our time to ensure every bracket is positioned precisely. This attention to detail pays off throughout your treatment.
What It Feels Like: The bonding process itself doesn't hurt. You might feel some pressure as we position the brackets, but there's no pain. Your mouth might feel a bit tired from being open, but most patients report that the appointment is easier than they expected.
Immediately After: Your teeth will feel different, and that's normal! They might feel slightly sore or tender within a few hours as they begin to respond to the gentle pressure. Your lips and cheeks may need a few days to adjust to having brackets. We'll send you home with orthodontic wax to cover any spots that feel irritating.
Regular Adjustment Appointments
Traditional Orthodontics: Traditionally, orthodontic patients come in every 4-6 weeks for adjustments. At these appointments, we check your progress and make changes to your archwire or add new components to continue guiding your teeth.
Our Approach with DentalMonitoring: At Varble Orthodontics, we use DentalMonitoring technology, which allows us to track your progress remotely using a smartphone app. You take photos of your teeth at home, and our system uses AI to analyze your tooth movement and oral hygiene.
This means:
- Fewer Office Visits: Many patients need only 8-12 in-office appointments for their entire treatment instead of 20+
- More Convenient: Especially valuable for busy families and working adults
- Faster Adjustments: We can identify issues between appointments and address them proactively
- Better Results: More frequent monitoring means we can optimize your treatment in real-time
When you do come in for in-office adjustments, appointments typically take 20-30 minutes. We'll check your progress, make any necessary wire changes or adjustments, and answer any questions.
Braces Removal Day
This is the appointment everyone looks forward to! After months of treatment, you'll finally see your finished smile.
What Happens:
- Bracket Removal: We carefully remove each bracket—this doesn't hurt, though you might feel some pressure
- Adhesive Cleanup: Any remaining bonding material is gently polished off your teeth
- Final Photos: We take photos to document your beautiful results
- Retainer Fitting: We'll take impressions or scans for your retainers
How Long It Takes: The removal appointment usually takes about 45 minutes.
What Your Teeth Will Feel Like: Your teeth will feel amazingly smooth! Many patients say their teeth feel "slippery" at first. You might also notice they feel a bit loose—this is normal. The bone around your teeth needs time to solidify in their new positions, which is why retainers are so important.
Retention Phase
Getting your braces off isn't the end of your orthodontic journey—it's the beginning of the retention phase. This phase is critical for maintaining your results.
Types of Retainers:
- Fixed Retainers: A thin wire bonded behind your front teeth, typically on the lower arch
- Removable Retainers: Clear plastic retainers or traditional wire retainers that you wear at night
Most patients receive a combination: a fixed retainer on the lower teeth and a removable retainer for the upper teeth.
How Long to Wear Them: Initially, you'll wear your removable retainers full-time (except when eating) for several months. Then, we'll transition to nighttime-only wear. The reality is, if you want to keep your teeth straight, you'll need to wear your retainer at night indefinitely. Think of it like this: if you want your hair to stay in place, you use hairspray. If you want your teeth to stay in place, you wear your retainer.
Braces for Different Ages
Orthodontic treatment isn't one-size-fits-all, and age plays a significant role in planning and expectations. Let's discuss what braces look like for different age groups.
Braces for Kids (Ages 7-12)
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn't mean every 7-year-old needs braces, but this is the age when we can identify potential issues and determine the ideal timing for treatment.
Ideal Timing for Early Treatment: For most children, the sweet spot for comprehensive braces treatment is ages 10-14, when they've lost most of their baby teeth but still have remaining growth to work with. However, some children benefit from early intervention (Phase 1 treatment) as young as 7-9 years old.
Benefits of Treating Early:
- Guide jaw growth to create better proportions
- Correct harmful habits (thumb sucking, tongue thrusting)
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Reduce risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Potentially simplify or shorten later treatment
Phase 1 vs. Comprehensive Treatment:
- Phase 1 Treatment: Limited orthodontic treatment during the mixed dentition phase (when they have both baby and permanent teeth) to address specific issues. Not all children need Phase 1.
- Comprehensive Treatment: Full braces after most or all permanent teeth have erupted.
What Makes Kids Good Candidates: Children's bones are still growing, which makes it easier to guide teeth and jaws into proper alignment. They're also adaptable and typically adjust quickly to having braces.
Braces for Teens (Ages 13-18)
This is the most common age for braces, and for good reason. Most teens have all their permanent teeth, are still growing, and are mature enough to maintain good oral hygiene and follow instructions.
Why This is the Most Common Time:
- All or most permanent teeth are present
- Remaining growth can be utilized
- Treatment tends to be efficient
- Social acceptance (many of their peers have braces too)
Social Considerations: Let's be honest: teens care about their appearance. But here's what I share with my teenage patients: Braces are temporary (usually 18-24 months), but the confidence from a great smile lasts forever. Plus, many of their classmates have braces too, making it more normalized.
Modern braces are smaller and less noticeable than ever, and with options like ceramic braces, we can minimize their visibility. Many teens also enjoy expressing their personality with colored elastic ties.
Sports and Activities: Having braces doesn't mean sitting on the sidelines. Teens can continue playing sports (we recommend a mouthguard), playing musical instruments, and participating in all their regular activities. There might be a brief adjustment period, but most teens adapt quickly.
Compliance Factors: The biggest challenge with teen braces is ensuring compliance with oral hygiene, elastic wear, and dietary restrictions. This is where DentalMonitoring is invaluable. It helps us track whether elastics are being worn and catch hygiene issues before they become problems. Parents appreciate the accountability it provides.
Braces for Adults
If you're an adult considering braces, let me be clear: it's absolutely not too late. About 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today is an adult, and that number is growing.
It's Never Too Late: Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. The biological process that allows tooth movement doesn't stop when you turn 18 or 21 or 40. I've successfully treated patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond.
Unique Considerations for Adults:
- Bone Density: Adult bone is denser than adolescent bone, which can mean slightly slower tooth movement
- Existing Dental Work: We work around existing crowns, bridges, and implants
- Periodontal Health: Healthy gums are essential—we may coordinate with your dentist
- Motivation: Adult patients are typically highly motivated and compliant
Professional Appearance Concerns: Many adult patients worry about how braces will look in professional settings. We have options:
- Ceramic braces blend in beautifully
- Self-ligating braces are smaller and less noticeable
- Clear aligners may be an option depending on your case
In my experience, most adults find that their colleagues and clients are supportive and encouraging about their decision to improve their smile.
Treatment Length for Adults: Adult treatment typically takes 18-30 months, sometimes slightly longer than teens due to denser bone and established bite patterns. However, with modern technology and DentalMonitoring, we optimize treatment every step of the way.
The bottom line: The best time to get braces was when you were a teenager. The second-best time is now.
Living with Braces
Let's talk about the practical aspects of day-to-day life with braces. This is often what patients are most curious (and sometimes anxious) about.
Foods to Avoid (and What You CAN Eat)
Braces do come with some dietary restrictions. But the good news is, there's still plenty you can enjoy.
Hard, Sticky, Crunchy Foods to Avoid:
- Hard: Ice, hard candy, nuts, popcorn kernels, hard pretzels, hard cookies
- Sticky: Caramel, taffy, gummy candy, chewing gum
- Crunchy: Chips, hard taco shells, hard pizza crust
- Whole: Apples (unless sliced), corn on the cob (cut off the cob first), whole carrots
Why These Restrictions Matter: These foods can break brackets or bend wires, which means extra appointments and potentially longer treatment time. Trust me, avoiding these foods is easier than dealing with a broken bracket.
How to Modify Foods: You don't have to give up your favorite foods entirely, just modify them:
- Cut apples, carrots, and other hard fruits/veggies into small pieces
- Cut corn off the cob
- Cut pizza and sandwiches into small, manageable bites
- Remove meat from bones before eating
Braces-Friendly Food Recommendations:
- Soft fruits: bananas, berries, melons
- Cooked vegetables
- Pasta, rice
- Soft bread, tortillas
- Eggs
- Yogurt, pudding, ice cream
- Soft cheese
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Soft-cooked meats
The first few days after getting braces (and after adjustments), stick to softer foods as your teeth may be tender.
Oral Hygiene with Braces
Keeping your teeth clean with braces requires extra effort, but it's absolutely crucial. Poor hygiene can lead to white spots on your teeth (permanent staining), cavities, and gum disease.
Brushing Technique:
- Brush after every meal (or at least morning, night, and after lunch)
- Use a soft-bristled brush at a 45-degree angle
- Brush above and below the brackets
- Brush each tooth individually for 10 seconds
- Don't forget to brush your gums and tongue
- Electric toothbrushes (like Sonicare or Oral-B) work great
Flossing with Braces: Yes, you still need to floss! It's more challenging but essential. Thread floss under the wire between each tooth and gently clean up and down. It takes 2-3 minutes, but it's worth it.
Tools That Help:
- Floss Threaders: Help you get floss under the wire
- Orthodontic Floss: Pre-threaded floss designed for braces
- Water Flossers: Devices like Waterpik are excellent for braces (though they don't replace flossing entirely)
- Interproximal Brushes: Tiny brushes that clean between brackets
- Fluoride Mouthwash: Helps strengthen enamel and prevent cavities
Our DentalMonitoring app actually assesses your oral hygiene during your weekly scans and alerts us if we notice issues, allowing us to address problems before they become serious.
Managing Discomfort
Let's address the elephant in the room: Do braces hurt?
What's Normal:
- Soreness for 2-3 days after getting braces or after adjustments
- Teeth feeling "pressure" or achiness
- Cheeks and lips feeling irritated for the first week or two
- Temporary discomfort when chewing
What to Call About:
- Severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain medication
- A bracket completely coming off
- A wire poking that you can't resolve with wax
- Persistent sores that don't heal
- Swelling or signs of infection
Pain Management Tips:
- Take over-the-counter pain reliever (Tylenol or Ibuprofen) as needed
- Eat soft foods when teeth are sore
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritation
- Use orthodontic wax on any spots that irritate your cheeks or lips
- Cold foods (ice cream, frozen yogurt) can provide relief
Orthodontic Wax: This is your best friend in the first few weeks. Simply dry off the bracket that's causing irritation, pinch off a small piece of wax, roll it into a ball, and press it firmly over the bracket. It creates a smooth barrier between the bracket and your mouth.
When Soreness Occurs: You'll typically feel the most soreness:
- 2-6 hours after getting braces placed
- 4-8 hours after adjustment appointments
- The discomfort usually peaks around 24 hours and gradually improves over 2-3 days
Handling Emergencies
Most "emergencies" with braces are actually minor issues that can be resolved at home. Here's what to do:
Broken Bracket: A bracket that comes loose or breaks off is the most common issue. Don't panic! If it's still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax if it's irritating you. If it comes completely off, save it and bring it to your next appointment. Call our office—we'll let you know if you need to come in sooner or if it can wait until your scheduled visit.
Poking Wire: Sometimes a wire slides and starts poking your cheek. Try using the eraser end of a pencil to gently push it away from your cheek. Cover the end with wax. If you can't resolve it, contact our office.
Lost Elastic: If an elastic (rubber band) comes off or breaks, simply replace it with a new one. Always carry your elastics with you.
When to Call the Office:
- Something is extremely painful and you can't resolve it
- A bracket is broken and the sharp edge is causing significant discomfort
- A wire is poking and you can't reposition it
- Any swelling or signs of infection
- You've lost an appliance or retainer
Our office phone number is (314) 567-3444, and we always make time for urgent issues. We're here to help!
Timeline and Results
"How long will I need to wear braces?" This is often the first question I'm asked, and it's an important one.
Most patients wear braces for 18-24 months, though this is just an average. Your specific timeline depends on several factors. The complexity of your case plays a major role: mild crowding might take 12-15 months, while severe bite issues might take 24-30 months. Age matters too, as younger patients often move faster due to active growth.
Your compliance is crucial: wearing elastics as prescribed, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and avoiding foods that break brackets all keep treatment on track. Bone density affects movement speed since teeth move more easily through less dense bone. Finally, individual biology comes into play. Everyone's teeth respond to treatment at slightly different rates, which is completely normal.
How DentalMonitoring Can Accelerate Treatment: With more frequent monitoring through DentalMonitoring, we can:
- Identify teeth that are moving faster or slower than expected
- Adjust your treatment plan in real-time
- Catch compliance issues early
- Optimize the timing of your in-office appointments
- Potentially reduce overall treatment time by 20-30%
Because we use DentalMonitoring with all our patients, many complete treatment ahead of the original timeline. This precision and responsiveness throughout treatment makes a real difference.
Before/After Transformation Expectations
Orthodontic treatment creates dramatic changes that go far beyond just straightening your teeth. You'll see an aligned smile with straighter teeth, of course, but you'll also experience improved bite function that makes chewing easier and reduces jaw strain. Straight teeth are significantly easier to clean, giving you better access for oral hygiene and reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Many patients also notice enhanced facial balance and profile as their bite improves. Perhaps most importantly, you'll gain increased confidence that comes from loving your smile. The transformation isn't just about aesthetics. It's about function, health, and how you feel about your smile.
Importance of Retention
Here's a hard truth: Your teeth will try to shift back toward their original positions after braces. Retention is what maintains your results. Wear your retainers as prescribed. This is not optional if you want to keep your beautiful smile!
I've seen patients who didn't wear their retainers experience significant relapse within just a few months. Don't let that be you. Wear your retainers!
Cost and Financing
Let's talk openly about cost. It's an important consideration for any family, and we believe in complete transparency about your investment in a healthy, confident smile.
Understanding Treatment Costs
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies significantly based on your individual needs. Several factors influence the final cost, including the complexity of your case, the type of braces you choose, the length of treatment required, and whether additional appliances are needed before or during braces treatment. During your free consultation, we'll provide you with a detailed, personalized quote so you know exactly what to expect.
Insurance Coverage
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. Our team can file to most major insurance companies, both in and out of network, on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum benefit from your orthodontic coverage. We'll verify your benefits before treatment begins so there are no surprises. This takes the hassle out of insurance paperwork and helps you understand your out-of-pocket costs upfront.
Flexible Payment Options
We understand the financial burden orthodontic care can place on busy families and individuals. That's why we've designed multiple payment solutions to make treatment accessible without sacrificing quality care.
Pay-in-Full Discount: If you're able to make a single-sum payment for your treatment, we offer a significant pay-in-full discount. This option not only streamlines the financial process but also provides substantial cost savings on your overall treatment.
Interest-Free In-House Financing: We're proud to offer interest-free, in-house financing that allows you the flexibility of a down payment and zero-interest monthly payments to manage the remaining balance. This payment structure alleviates the financial burden of orthodontic treatment by spreading costs over time without adding interest charges. At your consultation, we'll work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget and makes treatment affordable and stress-free.
The Value of Your Investment
While cost is certainly a consideration, it's helpful to think about the long-term value of orthodontic treatment. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease throughout your lifetime. A correct bite reduces jaw strain, headaches, and uneven tooth wear that can lead to expensive dental work later. Beyond health benefits, a smile you're proud of positively impacts job interviews, relationships, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. When you break it down over a lifetime, orthodontic treatment is a relatively small investment with profound, lasting returns.
Want to know exactly what your treatment will cost? Schedule a free consultation for a personalized quote with no obligation. We'll walk through all your payment options and find a solution that works for your family.
Why Choose Varble Orthodontics for Braces
At Varble Orthodontics, we've been creating beautiful smiles in the St. Louis area since 2008. But what truly sets us apart is how we approach orthodontic care: innovation, efficiency, and a genuine commitment to making treatment convenient for busy families.
Our Technology: We invest in the latest orthodontic technology because it directly benefits you:
- 3D Printing Lab: We have an in-house 3D printing lab, allowing us to create custom appliances quickly and precisely
- DentalMonitoring: Our remote monitoring system reduces office visits while improving results
- Modern Braces Systems: We use advanced self-ligating braces (like Damon Ultima) that move teeth faster with less discomfort
- Digital Scanning: No goopy impressions—we use digital scanners for comfort and accuracy
- Advanced Imaging: Comprehensive x-rays and 3D imaging help us plan your treatment perfectly
Fewer Appointments Due to Remote Monitoring: This is a game-changer for families. Traditional orthodontics requires visits every 4-6 weeks. That's 20+ appointments for a two-year treatment. With DentalMonitoring, many of our patients need only 8-12 in-office visits for their entire treatment.
What does this mean for you?
- Less time away from work or school
- Fewer schedule disruptions
- More convenient care
- Better results through more frequent monitoring
Two Convenient Locations: We have offices in both Creve Coeur and St. Peters, making it easy to find a location that works for your family. Both offices offer the same high-quality care and technology.
Experience Since 2008: Dr. Varble has been practicing orthodontics since 2008 and has treated thousands of patients. This experience means:
- Precise diagnosis and treatment planning
- Efficiency in treatment delivery
- Ability to handle complex cases
- Proven track record of beautiful results
Patient-Focused Approach: We understand that orthodontic treatment is about more than just straightening teeth. It's about people, families, and confidence. That's why we focus on:
- Clear, honest communication
- Personalized treatment plans
- Respect for your time and budget
- Creating a welcoming, comfortable environment
- Building lasting relationships with our patients
Flexible Scheduling for Busy Families: We know St. Louis families are busy, which is why we offer:
- Early morning and after-school appointments
- Saturday availability
- Efficient appointment times (most adjustment visits are 20-30 minutes)
- Online scheduling
- Remote check-ins through DentalMonitoring
Our goal is to make orthodontic care fit seamlessly into your life, not disrupt it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do braces hurt?
Braces don't hurt when they're being placed, but your teeth will likely feel sore for 2-3 days after getting braces and after adjustment appointments. This soreness is a sign that your teeth are responding to treatment and beginning to move. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, and patience help you through these first few days. The discomfort is temporary and manageable—and most patients tell me it's much easier than they expected.
2. Can I play sports with braces?
Absolutely! Braces don't have to sideline you from sports or physical activities. We recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect both your braces and your mouth from impact. We can provide an orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit over braces. Thousands of athletes successfully wear braces while competing at all levels.
3. How often will I need appointments?
With traditional orthodontics, appointments are typically scheduled every 4-6 weeks. However, at Varble Orthodontics, we use DentalMonitoring technology, which allows us to track your progress remotely. This means many patients need only 8-12 in-office visits for their entire treatment, significantly fewer than traditional orthodontics while achieving the same or better results.
4. What if a bracket breaks?
Don't panic! Broken brackets happen occasionally and are usually not an emergency. If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and use wax to cover it if it's causing irritation. If it comes completely off, save it and call our office. We'll let you know whether you need to come in right away or if it can wait until your next scheduled appointment.
5. Can I still play musical instruments?
Yes! Many of our patients play instruments throughout treatment. There may be a brief adjustment period (typically 1-2 weeks) as you adapt to playing with braces, but most musicians find they can continue without significant difficulty. Some players use orthodontic wax during practice or performances for extra comfort.
6. Will I need to miss school for appointments?
We do our best to minimize school or work disruptions. Many of our adjustment appointments are scheduled during after-school hours or on Saturdays. When an appointment during school is necessary, most visits take only 20-30 minutes, meaning minimal classroom time is missed. Plus, with DentalMonitoring, many check-ins happen remotely, eliminating the need for in-person visits.
7. What happens if I don't wear my rubber bands?
Rubber bands (elastics) are prescribed for specific bite corrections, and they only work if you wear them as instructed. Not wearing your elastics can significantly extend your treatment time, sometimes by many months. It can also compromise your final results. I know wearing them consistently requires discipline, but it's absolutely worth it. Your cooperation directly impacts how quickly you get your braces off and how great your final result looks.
8. How long do I have to wear a retainer?
Initially, you'll wear your retainers full-time (except when eating) for several months. Then we'll transition to nighttime-only wear. For long-term retention of your results, plan on wearing your retainer at night indefinitely. I know "forever" sounds like a long time, but retainers are comfortable, easy to wear, and the only way to keep your teeth from shifting. Think of it as a small price to pay for maintaining your beautiful smile.
9. Can I get braces on just my top or bottom teeth?
In some cases, yes, but this isn't common. Most orthodontic issues involve both arches, and treating only one arch can actually create bite problems. When we straighten only the upper teeth, for example, they may no longer fit properly with the lower teeth. During your consultation, I'll examine your bite and let you know if single-arch treatment is appropriate for your situation.
10. What's the youngest age to get braces?
While comprehensive braces treatment typically begins around age 10-14, some children benefit from early intervention (Phase 1 treatment) as young as 7-9 years old. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This early evaluation allows us to identify issues and determine the ideal timing for treatment. Early doesn't always mean immediate treatment—often, the best approach is to monitor growth and begin treatment at the optimal time.
Conclusion
You now have the information you need to make a confident decision about braces. You know how they work, what the process looks like, and what results to expect. The question isn't whether braces can give you or your child a healthier, straighter smile. The question is: what's your next step?
Here's What Happens Next
Schedule a free consultation at either our Creve Coeur or St. Peters location. During this visit, Dr. Varble will examine your specific situation, answer your questions, and provide a clear treatment plan with transparent pricing. You'll know exactly what your treatment involves, how long it will take, and what it will cost. No pressure, no obligation, just the information you need to decide.
If you choose to move forward, we can often start treatment the same day. If you need time to think about it, that's perfectly fine too. This is your decision, and we're here to support whatever timeline works for you.
Why Start Now?
Every month you wait is another month before you have the smile you want. Whether it's your child who needs early intervention, your teen who wants straight teeth before senior photos, or you finally deciding to invest in yourself, the best time to start is now.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Call (314) 567-3444 or book your free consultation online. We have two convenient locations in Creve Coeur and St. Peters, with flexible scheduling that works around your busy life.
