What Is Orthodontics and Why Does It Matter?
Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. After completing dental school, orthodontists train for an additional two to three years in a specialized residency program. That extra education builds deep expertise in tooth movement, facial development, and bite correction, setting orthodontists apart from general dentists.
Why does any of this matter? Crooked teeth and bite problems go beyond cosmetics. They can make brushing and flossing difficult, which leads to cavities and gum disease over time. A misaligned bite puts uneven stress on your teeth, often causing jaw discomfort and headaches. Some orthodontic issues even affect breathing and sleep quality. Worth paying attention to.
Modern orthodontics treats patients of all ages. Kids, teens, and adults can all benefit from straighter teeth and a healthier bite. For New Braunfels families looking for expert care, Dr. Jackson Savage, a board-certified orthodontist and AAO member, creates a personalized treatment plan for every member of your family.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works: From Consultation to Final Smile
Orthodontic treatment follows four stages: an initial consultation, appliance placement, regular adjustment visits, and retention. Each stage builds on the last, and most patients finish in 12 to 24 months. Here’s what the process looks like from start to finish:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Everything starts with a free consult. Dr. Savage will take digital X-rays and photographs of your teeth and jaws. He’ll examine your bite, discuss your concerns, and explain your options. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of what treatment involves and what it will cost.
Step 2: Appliance Placement
Once you’re ready, you’ll return for your placement appointment. This might mean getting modern metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners. For younger patients with jaw growth concerns, orthopedic appliances may be recommended.
Step 3: Regular Adjustment Visits
Every four to eight weeks, you’ll stop by the office for a quick check-in. These appointments allow Dr. Savage to monitor your progress and make adjustments. Each visit brings you closer to your final result. Most are fast, around 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Retention
When your teeth reach their ideal positions, your braces come off or you finish your aligner series. But the work isn’t quite done. Retainers keep your teeth from shifting back. This phase is essential for maintaining your results long-term.
Most orthodontic treatment takes between 12 and 24 months, though some cases may be shorter or longer depending on complexity.
Key Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic care pays off in more ways than looks:
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Improve Oral Health?
- Better oral hygiene. Straight teeth are easier to clean. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food and plaque hide in spots your toothbrush can’t reach. Proper alignment makes brushing and flossing more effective, which means fewer cavities and healthier gums over time.
- Preventing problems costs less than fixing them. Period. Orthodontic treatment now can help you avoid crowns, extractions, and other costly dental work down the road.
Can Orthodontics Help With Jaw Pain and Breathing?
- Reduced jaw discomfort and headaches. A corrected bite distributes chewing forces evenly across your teeth, reducing strain on your jaw joints and muscles.
- Airway-focused orthodontics can open up restricted airways. Patients tell us they sleep more deeply and wake up feeling more rested after treatment.
- Greater confidence. Patients regularly share that their straighter smile gives them the confidence to laugh freely, nail a job interview, or stop covering their mouth in photos. That kind of change is hard to put a price on.
Metal Braces vs. Clear Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?
Dr. Savage offers three main appliance types at Savage Orthodontics, and choosing the right one depends on your clinical needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Here’s how the options compare:
| Feature | Modern Metal Braces | Clear Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Most noticeable | Less noticeable (tooth-colored brackets) | Nearly invisible |
| Effectiveness | Handles all case types, including complex | Similar to metal braces | Best for mild to moderate cases |
| Removability | Fixed throughout treatment | Fixed throughout treatment | Removable for eating and cleaning |
| Cost | Most affordable option | Slightly higher than metal | Comparable to clear braces |
| Maintenance | Requires careful brushing around brackets | Same as metal braces | Easy to clean teeth normally |
Modern Metal Braces
Modern metal braces remain the most versatile choice. They handle even the most complex cases and typically cost less than other options. Today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable than ever.
Clear Braces
Clear braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your smile. They work just like metal braces but attract less attention. A solid middle ground for patients who want effectiveness with discretion.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners offer the most flexibility. These custom-designed trays are removable, so you can eat whatever you want and brush normally. Ideal for busy adults and teens who want a low-profile option.
Orthopedic Appliances
Orthopedic appliances address jaw growth and position rather than just tooth alignment. Dr. Savage often recommends these for younger patients whose jaws are still developing.
During your free consult, Dr. Savage evaluates your specific situation and helps you choose the best option for your smile and your life.
How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?
Savage Orthodontics in New Braunfels offers orthodontic treatment that typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000. Your actual cost depends on several factors:
| Cost Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Case complexity | More severe issues require longer treatment |
| Appliance type | Clear aligners and clear braces may cost more than metal |
| Treatment duration | Longer treatment means more appointments |
| Additional procedures | Some cases need extractions or other prep work |
A healthy smile shouldn’t depend on your budget. That’s why Savage Orthodontics offers 0%-interest financing so the quality of your care never takes a back seat to cost. Flexible monthly payment plans make treatment accessible for New Braunfels families at every income level.
Most dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits. Our team will help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits. You can also use HSA and FSA accounts for orthodontic expenses.
Your free consult includes a full cost breakdown with no surprises. You’ll know exactly what to expect before you commit to anything.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Almost anyone can benefit from orthodontic care. Here’s who should consider treatment:
- Children age 7 and up. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment, but it allows Dr. Savage to monitor growth and step in at the right time if needed.
- Teenagers. The most common orthodontic patients, since their permanent teeth are in but their jaws are still growing. That makes it an ideal window.
- Adults. It’s never too late. The AAO reports that adult orthodontic treatment has grown significantly in recent years, and more adults than ever are choosing to invest in their smile.
- Anyone with bite problems. Crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite. All correctable.
- Patients with airway concerns. If you or your little one struggles with mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep issues, an orthodontic evaluation may reveal underlying structural problems worth addressing.
The main prerequisite? Good general oral health. Any cavities or gum disease should be treated first. After that, you’re ready to start working toward a healthier smile with board-certified orthodontist Dr. Savage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Most patients wear braces or aligners for 12 to 24 months. Your exact timeline depends on the complexity of your case and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Some minor corrections wrap up in as little as six months, while more involved cases may take longer.
Do Braces Hurt?
Mild soreness for a few days after placement and after each adjustment is normal. Over-the-counter relievers handle it. Most patients stop noticing within a week.
Can Adults Get Braces?
Absolutely. Adult orthodontic treatment is growing fast among working professionals and parents alike. Clear aligners and clear braces offer discreet options that fit professional and social lifestyles. Your teeth can move at any age, and the health benefits remain the same.
What Is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. The distinction matters. After dental school, orthodontists complete an additional two to three years of specialized residency focused exclusively on tooth movement, jaw development, and bite correction. That’s thousands of hours of training beyond what a general dentist receives. Board-certified orthodontists like Dr. Savage have then passed rigorous examinations from the American Board of Orthodontics, demonstrating mastery of the specialty. When you’re trusting someone to reshape your bite and your smile, that level of expertise makes a real difference.
How Do I Choose the Right Orthodontist?
Look for board certification from the American Board of Orthodontics. This credential means the orthodontist has met the highest standards in the specialty. Consider the office atmosphere, technology used, and whether you feel comfortable with the team. A free consultation lets you experience the practice firsthand before making your decision.
Your free consult at Savage Orthodontics in New Braunfels includes digital imaging and a personalized treatment plan from Dr. Savage, so you can walk in with questions and walk out with answers.