1. Metal braces:

These are the most traditional type of braces and are made of metal brackets and wires.
They are generally the most noticeable and least expensive option.

2. Ceramic braces:

These braces are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material and are less noticeable than metal braces.
They are more expensive than metal braces but may be preferred by people who are self-conscious about their appearance.

3. Invisible aligners:

These are clear, removable plastic trays that are custom-made to fit over the teeth.
They are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
Invisible aligners are the most expensive option but are also the most discreet.
While these are not braces, they are considered Orthodontics.

There are a few essential factors to consider when deciding on the right
type of braces for you or your child.

These can include Treatment duration, Maintenance and care and how that affects your
daily life and schedule, Aesthetics, budget, dental health.

It's important to consult with an orthodontist to determine the best type of braces for your specific needs and preferences.

How long will my child have to wear braces?

The duration of treatment with braces varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including the severity of the orthodontic problem, the type of braces used, and the individual's age and oral health. On average, treatment with traditional metal braces takes about 18-24 months. However, some cases may require longer treatment times, while others may be completed in as little as six months.

Can my child play sports or musical instruments while wearing braces?

Yes, you can continue to participate in sports and play musical instruments while wearing braces. However, it is recommended that you wear a mouth guard during physical activities to protect your teeth and braces. If you play a musical instrument that requires the use of your mouth, such as a brass or wind instrument, you may experience some initial discomfort or difficulty. But with practice and adjustments to your technique, you should be able to play normally.

Do braces hurt?

You may experience some discomfort or soreness after getting braces or after adjustments to the braces. This is normal and usually lasts for a few days. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers and eat soft foods to help alleviate the discomfort. After a few days, your mouth will adjust to the braces, and the discomfort will subside. If you experience severe pain or discomfort, contact your orthodontist for guidance.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?

We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have an initial orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This allows orthodontists to identify any potential orthodontic issues early on and address them before they become more severe.

It's essential to remember that braces may not be necessary for every child. The decision to get braces should be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the individual child's orthodontic needs.

Orthodontic treatment may be necessary if your child has crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, or bite issues such as an overbite or underbite.

The timing of orthodontic treatment will depend on the individual child's growth and development. In some cases, early intervention may be necessary to guide jaw growth and tooth eruption. In other cases, treatment may be delayed until all the adult teeth have erupted.

It's important to work with an experienced orthodontist who can evaluate your child's orthodontic needs and recommend the best treatment plan.

Overall, the best time to get braces for your child will depend on their individual orthodontic needs. It's important to have an initial orthodontic evaluation at a young age and work with an experienced orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment.

Clear aligners, also known as clear-aligner therapy, are a popular orthodontic treatment option that can be used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems.

Clear aligners can be a beneficial orthodontic treatment option for children because they are nearly invisible and do not have the same aesthetic drawbacks as traditional metal braces. This can help children feel more confident and less self-conscious during treatment. Additionally, clear aligners are removable, making it easier for children to maintain good oral hygiene and to eat a wide variety of foods without restrictions.

Clear aligners can effectively treat a variety of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, spacing, and bite problems, and they may be a more comfortable and convenient option for some children compared to traditional braces. It is important to discuss with a dentist or orthodontist if clear aligners are a suitable treatment option for a child's specific orthodontic needs.

The pro's and Cons to Clear Aligners:

Pros:

Discreet: Clear aligners are virtually invisible, so they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces.

Comfortable: Clear aligners are made of smooth, plastic material that is less likely to irritate the mouth compared to metal braces.

Customized: Clear aligners are made to fit the unique shape of each patient's teeth, which can lead to more precise and effective treatment.

Removable: Clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.

Cons:

May not be suitable for severe cases: Clear aligners may not be effective for treating more severe bite problems or misalignment.

Must be worn consistently: Clear aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day in order to be effective. This can be a challenge for some patients, especially children.

May cause temporary discomfort: Some patients may experience temporary discomfort when switching to a new set of aligners.

May be more expensive: Clear aligners may be more expensive than traditional braces.

Clear aligners can be an effective treatment option for many patients, but it is important to discuss the pros and cons with a dental professional to determine if they are the best option for your specific needs.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?

We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

You may be wondering why your child seems to have crowded teeth, or biting the side of their cheeks.
Here are some early signs that you may need to take your child to an orthodontist:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth: If your child loses their baby teeth earlier or later than their peers, this may be a sign that there is a problem with their bite.
2. Difficulty biting or chewing: If your child has difficulty biting or chewing, this may be a sign that their teeth are misaligned or that they have a bite problem.
3. Mouth breathing: If your child frequently breathes through their mouth, this may be a sign that their teeth are misaligned or that they have a bite problem.
4. Crowded or crooked teeth: If your child has crowded or crooked teeth, this may be a sign that they would benefit from orthodontic treatment.
5. Misaligned jaw: If your child's jaw appears misaligned or if they have difficulty closing their mouth completely, this may be a sign that they would benefit from orthodontic treatment.

6. Thumb sucking: If your child continues to suck their thumb beyond the age of four, this may be a sign that they would benefit from orthodontic treatment.

4 main reasons to visit an Orthodontist

1. To straighten teeth: If you or your child has crooked or misaligned teeth, an orthodontist can develop a treatment plan to help straighten the teeth.

2. To correct a bite problem: An orthodontist can help to correct bite problems such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite.

3. To improve oral function: Orthodontic treatment can help to improve oral function by aligning the teeth and jaws properly, which can make it easier to bite and chew

4. To improve the appearance of the teeth: Orthodontic treatment can help to improve the appearance of the teeth by straightening them and correcting any misalignments. This can increase self-confidence and improve overall oral health.

If you notice any of these signs, it is a good idea to have your child evaluated by an orthodontist to determine if they would benefit from treatment. Early intervention can often lead to more effective treatment and better results.

Visiting an orthodontist can help to improve the health and appearance of the teeth and jaws. If you or your child is experiencing any problems with the teeth or jaws, it is a good idea to consult an orthodontist for an evaluation.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?
We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

Why some teeth do not come in straight?

It’s quite common for children to get adult teeth that are not straight.
The most common factors include extra teeth, missing teeth, large teeth, wide spacing, or inadequate spacing/small jaws. Habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, premature loss of baby teeth, or a poor breathing airway caused by enlarged
adenoids aggravate the problem, resulting in crowded teeth and/or an abnormal bite.

Regular visits to the dentist

The first primary/baby teeth start to come in at about 6 months of age. As soon as your child first gets their baby teeth, it’s important to get them on their first trip to the dentist. This allows the dentist to help ensure your child’s teeth stay clean,
and they can examine the inbound adult teeth.
Once the adult teeth start coming in, regular dental visits will allow your dentist to notice if some teeth are not coming in straight and they can refer you to an orthodontist or in our case, to our orthodontist department.

Habits

A children's general dentist can help you identify and correct bad habits that might cause teeth to not erupt straight. One of the most common examples is pacifiers. While it can be a great way to soothe a baby and even provide health benefits for infants, it can also
play a part in teeth erupting differently.
However, One should wean their child of the pacifier by the age of two, otherwise, it can cause teeth to grow incorrectly. Thumb sucking is another big instigator of crooked teeth.
A children's general dentist has extensive experience helping children change habits and they can work with you to create a plan for breaking them and know how to provide the right kind of motivation to cause change.

 

Keep an eye on growth

Sometimes when children start getting adult teeth, they erupt (break through the gums) in a crooked fashion.
While they might look quite crooked in the early stages of growth, they do most of the time end up aligned in a correct position by the time they’re fully grown.
So even if your child is getting teeth that are initially crooked, there’s no need to panic. Your active role during this period is to have regular visits to your child’s dentist so they can provide timely professional insights about any required treatments.

Visit the Orthodontist

If your child gets a reference for an orthodontist, then you should definitely get a consultation. The sooner they can visit the earlier they can begin treatment. Earlier treatment means it's easier and cheaper to fix the teeth and bite,
by correcting minor issues instead of waiting until they become major issues.
Around the age of 7, adult teeth can start to come in, and that is a good time for a visit to the orthodontist, who can assess if early treatments are necessary to prevent major treatments in the future.
Do you feel that your child's teeth seem to be not straight?
Do you feel they may need braces? Contact one of our offices near you.

To schedule a first consultation or visit, please contact us at
one of our locations:

1. 140 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07505
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor
Treatment Center - 4th Floor
(973) 742-4200

2. 625 Main Ave
Passaic, NJ 07055
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
(973) 574-1000

3. 3196 John Fitzgerald Kennedy Blvd
3rd Floor
Union City, NJ 07087
(201) 325-8444

 

Have you been considering treatment for straightening your child's teeth?
Perhaps you are looking to make a decision towards a more confident, beautiful smile that your child deserves.

 

We currently have two treatments for straightening your child's teeth over time. Both will improve your smile and overall dental health. However, you may have questions about the differences between the two.

So what is the Difference between Traditional Braces and Invisalign?

TRADITIONAL BRACES:
Device:
Traditional braces refer to metal brackets, wire, and rubber bands used to straighten your child's teeth. Metal braces include a wire called an archwire.
Your orthodontist will attach brackets to each tooth with bonding material.
These are gradually adjusted over time by tightening the wire which is held in place with rubber bands. This will place the teeth properly. People may shy away from braces and go with Invisalign due to the maintenance that metal braces include.

Time Involved:
- Braces don't come off until its time Braces 2 yrs treatment.
But patients often see results early. This helps to boost self-confidence and may encourage you to keep it up.
Completion expectancy of treatment can vary from patient to patient depending on what is being corrected therefore time frames are estimated whether the patient is advised metal braces or Invisalign treatment.
- Brackets can be tricky.
- Visits: About every 4-6 weeks. Fortunately, these visits are short ( about 30 min to 1hr)
- Slight soreness may occur with adjustments but should be temporary.

 

Convenience:
Traditional braces may provide better results depending on the challenging orthodontic needs a patient may have.

example: Teeth that may sit in different positions that are noticeable.
You may, however, want to consider this:
They may be a bit more involved to navigate around while flossing but it's not impossible and can be learned and there are accessories available that make cleaning easier. Visits for broken wires may occur.

Food Restrictions:
Unfortunately, there are some foods to avoid while wearing braces.
These may include:
- Popcorn, gum, apples, and other chewy stuff.

Cost:
Traditional braces tend to be more affordable than
Clear aligners. Both treatment options have accompanying payment options.
Most insurances are accepted as well as payment plans

Brushing vs Soaking:

Traditional braces are more likely to trap food and tend to be difficult to clean because they are fixed in the mouth.

 

 

INVISALIGN:
Device:
Invisalign is a popular treatment option due to being removable and virtually invisible.

Invisalign straightens your teeth without wires and rubber bands.
It uses a series of clear, customized, removable devices called aligners.
Braces have been around longer than Invisalign but this doesn't take away from
Invisalign at all. Both are very effective. Invisalign aligners are a bit more smooth.

Proven results: SmartTrack® material and SmartForce® features are clinically proven to improve control of tooth movement with Invisalign clear aligners
Your treatment might include as little as 12 trays or as many as 48

Time Involved:
How long does Invisalign treatment take?
you could see your new smile in as little as 6 months, however, completion expectancy of treatment can vary from patient to patient depending on what is being corrected therefore time frames are estimated whether the patient is advised metal braces or Invisalign treatment.

- Invisalign - Less time than traditional braces.
- 22-24 hrs wear Invisalign a day
- Braces 18 months to 3 years

 

Convenience:
Invisalign treatment is ideal for your busy schedule since you only need to visit our office every six weeks. Invisalign Clear aligners can treat a wide range of teeth-straightening conditions, including crossbites, crowding, open bites, gapped teeth, overbites, and underbites. Virtually invisible. Most people will not even notice that they are being worn. They are often referred to as more comfortable than metal braces due to the SmartTrack material. Straightens teeth more predictably and comfortably covered by many orthodontic insurance plans paying with pre-tax dollars from your HSA arranging a monthly payment plan

 

Food Restrictions:
Time for a snack? No problem. Take out your aligners to eat or drink whenever you want.

 

Cost:
Invisalign can typically cost more than their metal counterparts but there are available payment options. Most insurances are accepted as well as payment plans

 

Brushing vs Soaking:

It is as easy as taking your aligners off to brush and floss your teeth and then putting them right back in. Your aligners will stay cleaner if they are placed on clean teeth.

Must be considered:
Invisalign trays must also be cleaned.
Because bacteria can build up on the trays while you sleep during the night.
It's best practice to establish a routine to clean them in the morning and at night,
for the best oral health.

Soaking and Rinsing them is also a great practice.

 

 

 

Frequently asked questions:

Why Invisalign Treatment?

The Invisalign Treatment Process

Your First Consultation

Your Custom Treatment Plan

Here are some frequently asked questions about Invisalign

What are the primary benefits of Invisalign treatment?

 

 

Treatment

FEATURE	INVISALIGN	OTHER CLEAR ALIGNERS	TRADITIONAL BRACES
Made from SmartTrack Material	Yes
In-person consultations with real doctors	Yes		Yes
Easily removable for eating, drinking & flossing	Yes	Yes
No emergency visits for broken wires	Yes	Yes
Virtually invisible	Yes	Yes
Made from traditional brackets and wires			Yes
Each aligner is trimmed to your gum line for optimal comfort and appearance	Yes
Blue compliance indicator dots to help you stay on track	Yes
Covered by many orthodontic insurance plans	Yes	Yes	Yes

 

Treatment:
There’s never been a better time to straighten your teeth with the most advanced clear aligner in the world. Our office is proud to be a certified provider of Invisalign clear aligners, which give you a clear, convenient, and comfortable option to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. This does not indicate that metal braces are not a great choice.

 

Conclusion:
Regardless of which orthodontic treatment you choose, the professional staff at
Smile Central Dental is skilled at providing you quality treatment giving you a winning smile with the best options for you.

Braces are the popular choice for most of our patients which is perfectly fine.
It all boils down to the patient's preference.

Consults are free for metal braces treatment and, or Invisalign treatment.
Most insurances are accepted as well as payment plans.
Convenient office hours and open on Saturdays.

To schedule a first consultation or visit, please contact us at
one of our locations:

1. 140 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07505
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor
Treatment Center - 4th Floor
(973) 742-4200

 

2. 625 Main Ave
Passaic, NJ 07055
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
(973) 574-1000

 

3. 3196 John Fitzgerald Kennedy Blvd
3rd Floor
Union City, NJ 07087
(201) 325-8444