Modern Braces for Watkins Patients
Braces are still the most versatile tool in orthodontics, but they have changed a lot in the last decade. Today’s brackets are smaller, smoother, and in some cases custom-made for each tooth. At Garlock Orthodontics, we offer several bracket systems so we can match the appliance to your bite, your appearance preferences, and how often you can realistically come in for appointments.
Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Logan Smith see patients at 6240 S. Main St., Suite 220, in Aurora. Your first consultation is free.
Types of Braces We Offer
You can compare every option on our types of braces page. In short:
- Traditional metal braces: durable and effective for complex cases, with elastic colors kids enjoy choosing.
- Ceramic braces: work the same way as metal braces but blend with your natural tooth color.
- Self-ligating brackets: a small door holds the wire instead of an elastic tie, available in metal or ceramic.
- LightForce braces: custom brackets 3D-printed for each tooth in tooth-colored ceramic.
Pitts21 Self-Ligating Braces and Fewer Appointments
Dr. Garlock uses Pitts21 self-ligating brackets to correct crowding and bite problems such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. The system reduces friction and doesn’t need elastic ties, so teeth slide along the wire with lighter force. The brackets are thinner, sit closer to the gum line, and have rounded corners that are gentler on the lips and cheeks.
For patients, the practical benefit is fewer adjustment visits, since there’s no physical tightening. Self-ligating brackets are also easier to brush and floss around, and depending on the case they can reduce the need for extra appliances such as expanders or headgear. Our orthodontic technology page covers the system in more detail.
Custom 3D-Printed LightForce Brackets
LightForce brackets are designed from your iTero digital scan, then printed in ceramic to match the exact contours of each tooth. A custom tray lets Dr. Garlock place your whole set of braces in one appointment instead of positioning each bracket by hand. Because the treatment plan is mapped out digitally in advance, patients often need fewer in-office adjustments.
Braces for Every Age
We place braces for kids, teens, and adults. Younger patients may start with two-phase treatment, while adults often pick tooth-colored options. If you’re weighing braces against aligners, we’ll show you both and explain the tradeoffs for your case.
Caring for Your Braces Between Visits
Good hygiene keeps treatment on schedule. Brush after meals, floss daily, and avoid hard or sticky foods that can loosen brackets. Our guide to caring for your braces has step-by-step tips. If a bracket comes loose or a wire shifts, keep the piece and call us so we can decide whether you need to come in right away.
Braces Questions From Watkins Patients
How long will I wear braces?
It depends on your bite. Full braces are often worn for 12 to 24 months, and your orthodontist will give you an estimate at your consultation.
Do self-ligating braces hurt less?
Many patients find them more comfortable because they use lighter forces and have smoother, rounded edges. Some soreness for a few days after placement is still normal.
Are clear braces as effective as metal?
Yes. Ceramic and LightForce brackets move teeth the same way metal brackets do.
What happens after braces come off?
You’ll wear custom retainers to hold your new smile in place.
Schedule a Free Braces Consultation
See which bracket system fits your smile. Book your free consultation with Garlock Orthodontics.