TYPES OF BRACES
HOW TRADITIONAL BRACES WORK
Braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to your teeth through a system of brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by an archwire. Over time, this pressure gradually moves your teeth into their correct position. At each adjustment visit — typically every 6–8 weeks — Dr. Smith fine-tunes the wire tension to keep your treatment progressing on schedule. Every movement is planned from the start using digital scans and precise treatment mapping, so there are no surprises along the way.
WHAT CONDITINS DO BRACES TREAT?
Traditional braces are highly effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues, including:
— Crowded or overlapping teeth
— Widely spaced teeth and gaps
— Overbite (upper teeth overlap lower teeth too much)
— Underbite (lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth)
— Crossbite (upper and lower teeth don't meet correctly)
— Open bite (upper and lower teeth don't touch when biting)
— Complex bite issues requiring precise multi-directional tooth movement
For cases involving significant bite correction or complex tooth movement, braces often outperform clear aligners in precision and control. Dr. Smith will assess your specific situation at your free consultation and recommend the most effective option for your goals.
BRACES FOR KIDS, TEENS AND ADULTS IN WASHINGTON DC
For children, we recommend a first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Early screening helps us identify developing bite or spacing issues while they're easiest to address — and it gives us a clear roadmap even if treatment won't begin for a few years.
For teens, braces are a rite of passage at Infinity Orthodontics. We make the experience fun — from color tie options to a welcoming environment where your teen will actually look forward to appointments.
For adults, it's never too late. A significant portion of our Washington DC patients are adults choosing braces for the first time or after previous treatment. If you prefer a more discreet option, we also offer LightForce 3D-printed custom ceramic braces — the same reliability as traditional braces with a far less noticeable appearance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BRACES
How long does braces treatment take?
Treatment time varies by case — most patients wear braces between 12 and 24 months. Dr. Smith will give you a realistic estimate based on your digital scan and treatment plan at your free consultation.
How much do braces cost in Washington DC?
The cost depends on your case complexity and treatment length. Dr. Smith provides a full cost breakdown at your free consultation, and we offer flexible financing options to make treatment accessible for most budgets.
Do braces hurt?
There's typically some mild soreness for a day or two after each adjustment as your teeth respond to new pressure. This is normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients adjust quickly and find day-to-day wear very comfortable.
Can adults get traditional braces?
Absolutely. Adults get braces at Infinity Orthodontics every day. If you prefer a more discreet look, ask Dr. Smith about LightForce ceramic braces — same results, much less visible.
What can't you eat with braces?
We recommend avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires — things like popcorn, hard candy, caramel, and chewing gum. Dr. Smith's team will give you a complete care guide at the start of treatment.
What happens after braces come off?
You'll be fitted for a custom retainer to maintain your results. Wearing your retainer as directed is the most important thing you can do to protect your investment long-term.
START YOUR BRACES JOURNEY IN WASHINGTON DC
Ready to get started? Schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Patrice Smith at Infinity Orthodontics in downtown Washington DC. We'll evaluate your smile, walk you through your treatment options, and build a plan around your goals — with no pressure and no commitment required.
BRACES THAT WORK FOR EVERY SMILE
Traditional braces remain the most versatile and reliably effective orthodontic treatment available — and they've come a long way from the bulky metal appliances of the past. At Infinity Orthodontics, Dr. Patrice Smith uses modern low-profile brackets and advanced wire technology to deliver precise, comfortable results for kids, teens, and adults across Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Whether your child needs early intervention or you're an adult seeking a proven solution for a complex case, traditional braces offer a level of control and predictability that no other treatment can match.