Comprehensive Orthodontics FAQ In Erie, CO

Understanding Your Orthodontic Options at Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

At Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Erie, we believe informed patients make better decisions about their dental health. Dr. T.C. Hardy, our board-certified orthodontist, has compiled this detailed guide to answer the most common questions about orthodontic treatments available at our practice. Whether you’re considering traditional braces, Invisalign®, or Incognito lingual braces, this resource will help you understand your options for achieving a straighter, healthier smile.

Our Erie orthodontic practice combines cutting-edge technology with personalized care to deliver exceptional results. Dr. Hardy works closely with his team of dental professionals to create a comfortable and customized experience for patients of all ages. With options including InBrace, KLOwen braces, traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign®, we offer flexible treatment solutions to meet your unique needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between various orthodontic treatments, what to expect during your orthodontic journey, and how to care for your appliances. We aim to provide you with the knowledge you need to make confident decisions about your orthodontic care in Erie, CO.

Traditional Braces vs. Clear Braces: Understanding Your Options

What Type of Braces Does Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Offer?

At our Erie practice, Dr. T.C. Hardy offers a wide range of orthodontic treatment options to suit different needs and preferences. Our selection includes traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, InBrace hidden braces, KLOwen customized braces, Invisalign® clear aligners, and Incognito lingual braces. Each type of orthodontic treatment has unique advantages, and Dr. Hardy will work with you to determine which option best fits your specific dental needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.

Traditional metal braces remain a popular choice for many patients due to their reliability and effectiveness in treating even complex orthodontic issues. For those concerned about aesthetics, our clear ceramic braces provide the same effectiveness as metal braces but with a more discreet appearance. The KLOwen braces system offers a fully customizable experience with reduced treatment time and fewer office visits.

Our team utilizes advanced technology such as iTero digital scanning and 3D printing to create precise treatment plans and custom orthodontic appliances. This technology-forward approach ensures more comfortable treatment and predictable results for our Erie patients.

What is the Difference Between Clear Braces and Traditional Metal Braces?

The main difference between clear and traditional metal braces is their appearance and material composition. Traditional metal braces are made from high-grade stainless steel and are highly visible when you smile. They are exceptionally durable and can effectively treat even the most severe orthodontic cases. Metal braces are often the most economical option and may work faster for complex corrections.

Clear ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces but are made from transparent or tooth-colored ceramic material that blends more naturally with your teeth. This makes them less noticeable and a popular choice for image-conscious teens and adults. The ceramic brackets are precision-engineered to provide better strength and easier bonding while reducing bacteria buildup around the brackets.

While both options are effective at straightening teeth, clear braces may be slightly more prone to staining and somewhat more fragile than their metal counterparts. However, many patients find that the aesthetic advantage of clear braces outweighs these minor drawbacks, especially when paired with clear or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties.

How Do I Care for My Braces During Treatment?

Proper care of your braces is essential for successful treatment outcomes. For metal and clear braces, we recommend brushing after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Special orthodontic brushes can help clean around brackets and under wires. Daily flossing with orthodontic or water flossers is crucial for removing food particles and plaque between teeth.

Certain foods should be avoided while wearing braces to prevent damage to the brackets and wires. These include hard foods (nuts, ice, hard candy), sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gum), and foods that require biting into (corn on the cob, apples, carrots) unless cut into small pieces. Regular checkups with Dr. Hardy every 4-6 weeks will ensure your treatment progresses as planned.

For patients with clear ceramic braces, additional care may be necessary to prevent staining. We recommend avoiding foods and beverages that cause staining, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato-based sauces. If consumed, rinsing your mouth or brushing soon afterward can help maintain the clear appearance of your brackets.

Invisalign® Treatment: Clear Aligner Therapy in Erie

What is Invisalign® and How Does it Work?

Invisalign® is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth without traditional brackets and wires. Each set of custom-made aligners is designed using advanced 3D computer imaging technology based on Dr. Hardy’s treatment plan. The aligners apply gentle, controlled force to move teeth into their desired positions over time.

The Invisalign® process begins with a digital scan of your teeth using our iTero scanner, which creates a precise 3D model. Dr. Hardy uses this model to map out a custom treatment plan showing the exact movements of your teeth and approximately how long your treatment will take. You’ll receive new sets of aligners every 1-2 weeks, each making slight adjustments to tooth position until the final desired alignment.

Invisalign® works effectively for many orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, spacing problems, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. The transparent nature of the aligners makes them virtually invisible when worn, providing a discreet orthodontic solution that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

What is the Cost of Invisalign® in Erie, CO?

The cost of Invisalign® treatment at Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the duration of treatment, and your specific orthodontic needs. Generally, Invisalign® treatment is comparable in price to traditional braces. During your consultation with Dr. Hardy, we’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown for your treatment plan.

We understand orthodontic treatment is an investment in your long-term dental health and confidence. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans to make Invisalign® more accessible. Our practice works with most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits, which may cover a portion of your Invisalign® treatment. We offer in-house membership plans for patients without insurance coverage to help make treatment more affordable.

Our team will work closely with you to maximize any insurance benefits and create a payment plan that fits your budget. We believe financial considerations shouldn’t stand in the way of achieving the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.

How Do I Care for My Invisalign® Aligners?

Proper care of your Invisalign® aligners is essential for maintaining their clarity and effectiveness. Clean your aligners daily by brushing them gently with a soft toothbrush, clear, antibacterial soap, or the official Invisalign® cleaning crystals. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and scratch the aligners, making them more visible. Rinse aligners thoroughly with lukewarm water before reinserting them.

Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything except plain water. This prevents staining and damage to the aligners. Store your aligners in their protective case when not in use to avoid loss or damage. Avoid exposing aligners to hot water or leaving them in hot environments, which can warp the plastic and affect the fit.

We recommend wearing your Invisalign® aligners for 20-22 hours daily for optimal results. Clean your teeth thoroughly before reinserting your aligners to prevent trapping food particles and bacteria against your teeth. During your regular appointments with Dr. Hardy, we’ll check your progress and provide new aligners as needed.

Incognito Lingual Braces: The Truly Hidden Orthodontic Solution

What Are Incognito Lingual Braces and Who Can Wear Them?

Incognito lingual braces are a specialized orthodontic system that places custom-made brackets on the inner (lingual) surface of your teeth, making them completely hidden from view. This innovative approach offers the effectiveness of traditional braces with the added benefit of being virtually invisible. Incognito braces suit most patients seeking orthodontic treatment, including adults and teens concerned about aesthetics during treatment.

These braces are ideal for professionals, performers, public speakers, and anyone who wants to straighten their teeth without visible appliances. Incognito can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from simple alignment problems to more complex cases involving bite correction. The fully customized nature of Incognito braces makes them adaptable to almost any orthodontic situation.

During your consultation, Dr. Hardy will determine if you’re a good candidate for Incognito. While most people qualify, factors such as severe dental conditions, significant tooth wear, or certain bite issues may influence suitability. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess your needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

What Makes the Incognito Braces System Different?

Incognito stands apart from other orthodontic options due to its completely customized approach. Unlike traditional braces, which use standard-sized brackets, each Incognito bracket is custom-designed and manufactured specifically for your teeth using advanced CAD/CAM technology. This customization allows for more precise tooth movement and often results in shorter treatment times than conventional methods.

The gold alloy used in Incognito brackets is durable and suitable for patients with nickel allergies. The low-profile design of these brackets maximizes comfort while minimizing speech interference. Another key difference is that Incognito braces work 24/7 (unlike removable aligners that depend on patient compliance) while remaining completely hidden from view.

The digital planning process used for Incognito treatment allows Dr. Hardy to visualize the end result before treatment begins. This precise approach helps ensure predictable outcomes and efficient treatment progression. While Incognito may have a higher initial cost than other orthodontic options, many patients find the aesthetic and comfort benefits worth the investment.

Will Incognito Braces Affect My Speech or Cause Pain?

As with any orthodontic treatment, there is an adjustment period when you first receive Incognito lingual braces. Some patients experience temporary speech changes, particularly when pronouncing certain sounds, but most adapt within 1-2 weeks. Practice reading aloud or having conversations can help speed up this adjustment process. These initial speech changes are typically less noticeable to others than patients perceive them to be.

Regarding discomfort, Incognito braces generally cause similar levels of soreness as traditional braces, primarily when first placed and after adjustment appointments. This discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The custom-fit nature of Incognito brackets makes them more comfortable than standard braces for many patients, as they’re designed to match the unique contours of your teeth.

Dr. Hardy and our team will provide specific care instructions and orthodontic wax to address any areas that may cause initial irritation to your tongue. Most patients report discomfort subsides significantly after the first week as they become accustomed to the feel of the braces. Regular check-ups allow us to make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort throughout treatment.

Treatment Timelines and Additional Orthodontic Options

How Long Will My Orthodontic Treatment Take?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies based on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the specific treatment method chosen, and your compliance with treatment guidelines. On average, traditional braces treatment ranges from 18-24 months, while Invisalign® typically takes 12-18 months for most cases. Incognito treatment times are generally comparable to traditional braces but may be shorter in some cases due to their customized nature.

Factors affecting treatment duration include the severity of misalignment, spacing issues, bite problems, age, and how consistently you follow Dr. Hardy’s instructions. For Invisalign® patients, wearing your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours daily is crucial for staying on schedule. With InBrace or KLOwen systems, some patients may see results in as little as 6-12 months for less complex cases.

During your initial consultation, Dr. Hardy will provide a personalized estimate of your expected treatment timeline based on your specific orthodontic needs. Regular appointments throughout your treatment allow us to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to keep you on track for the best possible results.

What Advanced Orthodontic Technologies Does Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Offer?

Our Erie practice is committed to providing state-of-the-art orthodontic care through advanced technologies that enhance treatment precision, comfort, and efficiency. The iTero digital scanner eliminates the need for uncomfortable traditional impressions while creating highly accurate 3D models of your teeth. These digital scans allow us to show you a preview of your expected results before treatment even begins.

InBrace is a revolutionary “behind-the-teeth” orthodontic solution that uses Smartwire® technology to straighten teeth without visible brackets. The KLOwen custom braces system utilizes modular brackets and 3D printed bonding trays to provide faster, more comfortable treatment with fewer office visits. Our in-office 3D printing capabilities enable us to create precise orthodontic appliances and models without the wait times associated with traditional lab work.

We also employ Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) technology for comprehensive diagnostic imaging when planning complex orthodontic treatments. This advanced imaging gives Dr. Hardy detailed views of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures to ensure the most effective treatment approach. These technologies, combined with Dr. Hardy’s expertise, allow us to deliver exceptional orthodontic results with greater comfort and convenience.

What Happens After My Orthodontic Treatment is Complete?

After your active orthodontic treatment concludes, the retention phase begins—an essential step in maintaining your newly aligned smile. Dr. Hardy will provide custom retainers to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Depending on your specific needs, you may receive removable retainers (clear plastic or wire and acrylic types) or fixed retainers (thin wires bonded to the back of certain teeth).

Initially, most patients wear removable retainers full-time for 3-6 months, after which Dr. Hardy may recommend transitioning to nighttime wear only. The specific retention protocol will be tailored to your individual case. Regular retainer checks will be scheduled to ensure proper fit and function of your retainers and to monitor the stability of your results.

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental check-ups remain important after orthodontic treatment. These visits allow for professional cleaning of areas that may have been difficult to reach during treatment and early detection of any potential issues. With proper retention and care, your beautifully aligned smile can last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment

Can Adults Get Braces or Invisalign®?

Absolutely! At Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we treat many adult patients with various orthodontic options. There’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment, and about 25% of orthodontic patients nationwide are adults. Many adults pursue orthodontic treatment to address long-standing alignment issues, correct problems that have developed over time, or improve their smile aesthetics.

Adults often have different considerations than younger patients, including aesthetic concerns during treatment, existing dental work (such as crowns or bridges), and potential periodontal issues. Dr. Hardy considers these factors when creating treatment plans for adult patients. Many adults prefer less visible options like Invisalign®, clear ceramic braces, or Incognito lingual braces, all of which we offer at our Erie practice.

The benefits of adult orthodontic treatment extend beyond aesthetics—properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which can reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Many adults also report improved bite function and relief from jaw pain or TMJ issues following orthodontic treatment. During your consultation, Dr. Hardy will discuss your specific goals and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

How Often Will I Need to Visit the Orthodontist During Treatment?

The frequency of orthodontic appointments varies based on your specific treatment type and individual needs. For patients with traditional braces, appointments typically occur every 4-6 weeks for adjustments and progress checks. Invisalign® patients generally visit our office every 6-8 weeks to receive new sets of aligners and ensure treatment is progressing as planned.

For specialized treatments like Incognito or InBrace, appointment schedules are similar to traditional braces but may be customized based on your treatment plan. KLOwen braces patients often require fewer visits due to the personalized nature of this system. Emergency appointments are available if you experience issues between regular visits, such as loose brackets or wire discomfort.

Each appointment is integral to your treatment journey, allowing Dr. Hardy to make necessary adjustments and ensure you’re progressing toward your ideal smile. Our office works to accommodate busy schedules with flexible appointment times, and we strive to minimize wait times to respect your time commitments.

How Do I Know Which Orthodontic Treatment Option is Right for Me?

Determining the best orthodontic treatment for your needs depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and budget considerations. During your comprehensive consultation with Dr. Hardy, he’ll conduct a thorough examination, which may include digital scans, photographs, and X-rays to assess your specific orthodontic needs.

Dr. Hardy will discuss all suitable treatment options, explaining the advantages and considerations of each approach for your particular situation. While Invisalign® might be ideal for someone with a busy professional life who values discretion, traditional braces might be more appropriate for complex cases requiring precise tooth movement. Teenagers may prefer clear braces with colorful elastics, while adults might lean toward completely hidden options like Incognito.

We encourage patients to share their priorities, whether that’s treatment speed, aesthetic concerns, budget constraints, or comfort, so we can recommend the most appropriate solution. We aim to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your orthodontic care that aligns with your specific goals and lifestyle.

What Insurance and Payment Options Are Available for Orthodontic Treatment?

At Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we work with most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits. Insurance coverage for orthodontics varies widely between plans, with some covering a percentage of treatment costs up to a lifetime maximum. Our experienced administrative team will help verify your benefits and explain what portion of the treatment your insurance will likely cover.

For patients without orthodontic insurance coverage, we offer several flexible payment options. Our in-house membership plans provide discounts on orthodontic treatment, and we offer interest-free payment plans that spread the cost of treatment over its duration. We also accept major credit cards and work with third-party financing options like CareCredit to make orthodontic treatment more accessible.

We believe financial considerations shouldn’t prevent anyone from achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. During your consultation, our treatment coordinator will provide a detailed breakdown of costs and work with you to develop a financial arrangement that fits your budget. We’re committed to transparency in our pricing and will answer any questions you have about treatment costs.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Painful?

Orthodontic treatment typically causes mild discomfort rather than acute pain. When braces are first placed or after adjustment appointments, patients commonly experience soreness for about 3-5 days as teeth begin to move. This discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as recommended by Dr. Hardy).

Invisalign® patients often report less discomfort compared to traditional braces, with mild pressure sensations when switching to new aligners. Similarly, technologies like KLOwen and InBrace are designed to apply gentle, consistent forces that minimize discomfort while effectively moving teeth. For any orthodontic treatment, soft foods are recommended during periods of soreness.

Our team provides orthodontic wax to cover any brackets or wires that might irritate your cheeks, lips, or tongue as you adjust to your appliances. Most patients find any initial discomfort subsides quickly as they become accustomed to their orthodontic appliances. Dr. Hardy and our team are always available to address any comfort concerns throughout your treatment.

Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation in Erie, CO Today

At Hardy Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a beautifully aligned smile that enhances your appearance and oral health. Dr. T.C. Hardy, our board-certified orthodontist, combines advanced technology with personalized care to deliver exceptional results for patients of all ages.

Whether you’re considering traditional braces, clear ceramic braces, Invisalign®, or specialized options like Incognito or InBrace, we offer comprehensive orthodontic solutions to meet your unique needs. Our team is committed to making your orthodontic journey comfortable, convenient, and rewarding from your first consultation through completing your treatment.

Take the first step toward your ideal smile by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Hardy. During this visit, we’ll discuss your concerns and goals, perform a thorough examination, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.\

📍 Visit Us: 3200 Village Vista Dr., Suite 110, Erie, CO 80516 📞 Call: (720) 900-3119 📩 Or Request an Appointment Online Today