Adult Braces Specialist

Adult Braces services offered in MARTINEZ and Walnut Creek, CA

Crooked teeth and bite abnormalities affect people of all ages, including adults. At Harper Orthodontics in Walnut Creek and Martinez, California, board-certified orthodontist Stephen Harper, DDS, offers multiple types of adult braces. Dr. Harper understands that braces aren’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. That’s why he provides traditional metal, self-ligating, and Damon clear braces. To find the right type of adult braces for you, call Harper Orthodontics today or schedule an appointment online.

What are adult braces?

Adults are often hesitant to seek orthodontic treatment due to fear of wearing braces. When most adults imagine braces, they picture the thick metal brackets and wires of the past. Traditional braces are sleeker and less prominent than they used to be, but adults also have plenty of other options to straighten their teeth.

At Harper Orthodontics, Dr. Harper offers several types of adult braces to restore your smile. To find the best treatment for you, Dr. Harper provides complimentary orthodontic consultations.

What are the types of adult braces?

Dr. Harper invests in advanced orthodontic technology to ensure you have access to a wide range of modern braces, such as:

Traditional braces

Traditional metal braces offer a safe and predictable orthodontic solution for adults. Metal brackets, archwires, and elastic ties make up traditional braces. Once placed, conventional braces take about 18 months to three years to straighten teeth and correct bite problems.

Ceramic braces

Like traditional braces, ceramic braces straighten teeth via gradual force. The main difference is that ceramic braces include tooth-colored materials. While ceramic braces aren’t as apparent as metal materials, they also have longer brackets and are more likely to stain. They are also less durable, so Dr. Harper may not recommend ceramic braces if you grind your teeth.

Damon™ self-ligating braces

Damon self-ligating braces use a sliding mechanism to pull your teeth into position rather than elastic ties. As a result, the treatment is more comfortable and discreet than traditional braces. The brackets are also smaller and the archwires thinner. Dr. Harper offers Damon braces in metal and clear materials.

SPEED self-ligating braces

Like Damon braces, SPEED is a self-ligating system that doesn’t rely on elastic ties to straighten your teeth. Instead, SPEED uses a spring-clip mechanism that gently shifts your teeth into alignment.

Invisalign® clear aligners

Unlike braces, Invisalign clear aligners are removable. These custom-made, BPA-free plastic aligners mold to the shape of your teeth to exert pressure. Invisalign offers a discreet alternative to braces that fits into your lifestyle. With Invisalign, you can brush, floss, and eat your favorite foods without interference from brackets and wires.

How do I know if I need adult braces?

Harper Orthodontics is proud to provide complimentary orthodontic consultations that include a full exam and digital X-rays. During your consultation, Dr. Harper can identify concerns such as:

Crooked teeth
Overcrowding
Gapped teeth
Overbite
Underbite
Open bite
Crossbite

Depending on the results of your exam, Dr. Harper can recommend the right type of adult braces for your orthodontic health, lifestyle, and budget. Call Harper Orthodontics today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about adult braces.