Orthodontic Services in CT

We specialize in Orthodontics. Braces are used to assist in aligning and straightening teeth in order to not only improve appearance but improve a person’s bite. Having braces isn’t just about improving your smile; it’s also about improving your overall dental health. Orthodontics may be used to correct malocclusions such as overbites, underbites, cross bites, deep bites, crooked teeth and other imperfections of the teeth and jaws. Braces may be used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances to help with making corrections to a person’s bite.

Dental technology has improved over the years to include new options to help correct the above issues, and there are a number of techniques and products available that were not available just a few short years ago. 

In our office, one of the newer orthodontic options we offer are Invisalign® clear aligners as an alternative to more traditional style braces. These clear aligners are virtually invisible, providing patients a less conspicuous way to transform their smiles!

Traditional metal braces are still the most popular types of braces as they produce high-quality results. Clear Ceramic braces are popular with adults and teenagers who want the results of braces without the look of metal. Your visit will begin with a consultation with Dr. Cos to go over the best alternatives for your orthodontic care. Dr. Cos will address any questions you may have regarding your treatment and will provide a plan for orthodontic therapy.

Is it better to get Invisalign from a dentist or orthodontist?

After graduating from dental school, orthodontists go on to receive an additional two to three years of education in orthodontics. This means we have advanced knowledge and training in the movement of teeth and correction of malocclusions. There’s simply no one better trained to provide Invisalign treatment than an orthodontist.

Can I get Invisalign instead of braces?

Invisalign is a great fit for most patients, but it’s not a fit for everyone. During your consultation at our office, we will assess your orthodontic needs and determine the best course of treatment to help you meet your goals and achieve a beautiful smile.

Do braces hurt?

Braces can be uncomfortable after you first get them—it takes a while to get used to the feeling of constant pressure on your teeth, but it’s that pressure that moves them into their new positions. After the initial week or so of soreness, you may have a day of discomfort each time your braces are tightened, but over-the-counter pain relievers are effective at alleviating this pain.

Do braces change your face?

Any type of orthodontic treatment has the potential to change your facial appearance, but rest assured—it’s for the better! Unless you only have very minor tooth misalignment, your braces will reposition your jaw, resulting in a more balanced, symmetrical appearance. Correcting overbites, underbites, and other malocclusions can make a dramatic difference in the aesthetics of your face.

Are lingual braces more expensive?

Yes, lingual braces are more expensive than other forms of orthodontic treatment. This is because unlike traditional metal braces, lingual braces are made custom for each patient in a dental laboratory. That said, many patients feel that the results and discreet nature of this solution are worth the added cost!

How long do you wear a retainer?

The length of time you need in a retainer is decided on a case-by-case basis, depending on your needs and the type of retainer you have. Wearing your retainer as directed is important in avoiding dental relapse.

When should you start orthodontic treatment?

We’re big believers in early orthodontic treatment, which can start as young as 7 years of age. By starting treatment early, we can prevent problems from forming, rather than waiting for problems to appear and then correcting them later. This is a much more effective form of orthodontic treatment and, ultimately, it means less time spent in braces as a teenager.

What is the best age for braces?

We typically wait to start treatment with braces until your child’s adult teeth have erupted. This is usually somewhere between 11 and 14 years of age. In some cases, braces may be used before the adult teeth have fully emerged—in the case of impacted canines, for example, braces may be used to pull down a partially erupted tooth.