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Braces in Brooklyn

Braces are one of the most trusted and effective ways to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. At any given moment, millions of people (kids, teens, and adults alike) are wearing braces to achieve healthier, aligned smiles. These orthodontic appliances gradually move crooked or crowded teeth into place, fixing problems from gaps to overbites.

Located in Brooklyn, Brace Central is led by Dr. Polina Ingberman, a board-certified orthodontist with over 25 years of experience. Our doctors and team are dedicated to a patient-first approach, making orthodontic treatment comfortable and personalized for every patient. We offer state-of-the-art braces options to fit your needs, including Damon™ braces, Symetri porcelain brackets by Ormco, and Votion braces. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if braces are right for you or your child.

What Are Braces?

Braces are orthodontic devices that use brackets and wires to gently move your teeth into proper alignment over time. Small brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth (or sometimes the back, for hidden braces), and a thin metal archwire connects them. The braces apply continuous, light pressure, which guides teeth to straighten and bites to correct gradually. Additional components like elastic bands or springs may be used as needed to help with specific corrections.

Modern braces come in a variety of styles, from traditional metal looks to low-profile clear versions. No matter the type, all braces work under the same principle: consistent, gentle force over months or years to shift teeth into a healthy, aligned position. Dr. Ingberman will evaluate your orthodontic needs and recommend the appropriate braces for your case.

Benefits of Braces

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A straight, well-aligned smile isn’t just about looking good, it also promotes better oral health and function. Orthodontic treatment with braces offers both cosmetic and health benefits, including:

  • Enhanced confidence: By correcting crooked teeth or gaps, braces help you achieve a beautiful smile that can greatly boost your self-esteem.
  • Improved bite and speech: Aligning the teeth and jaws can fix bite problems, making it easier to chew food and even improving speech clarity for some patients.
  • Easier cleaning: Straighter teeth are simpler to brush and floss, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease since there are fewer hard-to-reach spots.
  • Less wear and strain: Properly aligned teeth come together evenly, preventing excessive wear, grinding, or chipping that can occur with a misaligned bite.
  • Better overall oral health: By addressing crowding or bite issues, braces can alleviate jaw pain or discomfort and reduce the likelihood of future dental complications.

All these benefits contribute to healthier teeth and gums in the long run. When your smile is aligned, it’s easier to maintain and sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

Who They're For

Braces can benefit patients of virtually any age who want to correct alignment issues and improve their smile. Children often get braces once most of their adult teeth have come in (commonly between ages 11 and 15). The American Association of Orthodontists even recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early check-ups can catch issues while a child’s jaw is still growing. Not every young child will need braces right away, but monitoring growth can inform the best timing for treatment.

Teenagers are the most common age group for braces, since by the early teens, all permanent teeth are usually in place and the jaw is still highly adaptable. Getting braces as a teen can correct issues before adulthood, and often, peers are going through similar treatment, so it feels pretty normal.

Adults can absolutely get braces, too. In fact, more adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment for themselves – currently, about one in four braces patients is an adult. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, there is really no age limit. “Braces aren’t just for kids. I’ve treated patients from age 7 to 70. It’s never too late to get a healthier smile,” says Dr. Polina Ingberman. Many adults find that improving their teeth alignment boosts their confidence and oral health well into later years.

Ultimately, the decision to get braces is a personal one. Orthodontic treatment is a significant time commitment (most people wear braces for 12 to 24 months or more), so it’s important to feel ready. During a consultation, our doctors will examine your teeth and discuss whether braces are the right option now, and what the expected timeline and results would be. We ensure every patient, whether child, teen, or adult, gets the guidance they need to make an informed decision about braces.

Types of Braces

At Brace Central Orthodontics, we offer several types of braces to match your lifestyle and preferences. Our doctors will recommend the best type for your specific case. Our options include:

Damon Braces

Damon™ braces are advanced self-ligating metal braces. Instead of using elastic ties to hold the wire, Damon brackets have a special slide mechanism that holds the archwire in place. This allows the wire to move freely as your teeth shift, which can result in faster treatment and fewer adjustment appointments. Damon braces are also known for being comfortable and easier to keep clean than traditional braces, since they don’t have rubber bands that can trap food.

Symetri Clear Braces

Symetri Clear brackets from Ormco are a type of ceramic braces that blend in with your teeth. These brackets are made of a translucent porcelain material, making them far less noticeable than metal braces, a great option if you want a more discreet look. Despite being clear, Symetri brackets are strong and effective. They work just like metal braces to straighten your teeth, but with the aesthetic advantage of barely being visible in photos or everyday life.

Votion Braces

Votion braces are a modern take on traditional stainless steel braces. These metal brackets are designed with a low-profile shape for comfort inside your mouth. Votion brackets still use elastic ties, but their innovative design ensures they bond securely and guide teeth efficiently. They’re a reliable, cost-effective choice for patients looking for tried and true braces that get the job done. Dr. Ingberman might recommend Votion braces for cases that can be well treated with a classic, high-quality bracket system.

Invisalign®

While not braces in the traditional sense, Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment we offer as an alternative to brackets and wires. Invisalign® uses a series of custom clear aligner trays that are removable and nearly invisible. They straighten your teeth without metal hardware. Many teens and adults love Invisalign for its convenience and discreet appearance. If you’re interested in a braces alternative, ask us about Invisalign treatment. We’ll
help you determine if clear aligners are a good option for your smile.

Braces Treatment Process

Getting braces is a multi-step process that we guide you through from start to finish. Here’s what you can expect during orthodontic treatment at Brace Central Orthodontics:

Initial Consultation & Exam: Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Our doctors will examine your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment, often taking X-rays or digital scans. She’ll discuss your goals and create a custom treatment plan that includes the type of braces and estimated timeline.
Getting Your Braces: At this appointment, brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected with an archwire. The process takes 1–2 hours. Some soreness is normal, and we’ll provide wax and tips to ease the discomfort.
Regular Adjustment Visits: Every 4–6 weeks, you’ll return for quick adjustments. Our doctors will make changes like tightening the wire or adding elastics to guide your teeth into better alignment. We’re always here if anything feels off or breaks.
Braces Removal & Retainers: Once alignment is perfect, your braces are gently removed, and you’ll receive a custom retainer. Retainers keep your new smile in place, and we’ll show you how to care for them. Congrats on your straightened smile!

Throughout each step, our team at Brace Central Orthodontics focuses on your comfort and care. We encourage you to ask questions and stay involved in your treatment journey.

How much do braces cost, and will my insurance cover it?

Can You Have Gum with Braces

The cost of braces can vary widely from patient to patient. Factors like the complexity of your case and the length of treatment will determine the overall fee. During your consultation, we’ll provide a clear quote and discuss what’s included. The good news is that many dental insurance plans do offer orthodontic coverage for braces, especially for children (and sometimes for adults, too). Our office team will help check your insurance benefits and file claims on your behalf to maximize your coverage.

We also believe finances should never stand in the way of a healthy smile. “We offer flexible, no-interest payment plans and work with your insurance to make braces affordable,” says Dr. Ingberman. At Brace Central, you can set up a monthly payment plan that fits your budget, so you don’t have to pay the full cost all at once. We accept major credit cards and HSAs/FSA accounts as well. Rest assured, we’ll help you find a financial option that works for you.

Schedule Your Braces Consultation in Brooklyn

Ready to take the next step toward a healthier, straighter smile? We’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with our expert orthodontists at Brace Central Orthodontics in Brooklyn to discuss your braces options and personalized treatment plan. Our warm, knowledgeable team will answer all your questions and make you feel right at home from day one. Call our office at 718-998-1888 or contact us online to book your appointment today. We can’t wait to help you or your child achieve the confident, beautiful smile you deserve!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Every patient is different, but most braces treatments last between 18 and 24 months. Mild cases might take a bit less than a year, while more complex corrections (or adult treatments) could take 2 years or longer. Dr. Ingberman will give you an estimated timeframe based on your specific needs. Keep in mind, staying on schedule with your adjustment appointments and following instructions (like wearing your rubber bands if prescribed) will help keep your treatment on track. Many patients start to see positive changes in their smile within just a few months of getting braces, even if the total treatment takes longer.

According to orthodontic experts, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn’t mean your 7 year old will need braces right away! It’s an early checkup so Dr. Ingberman can spot any growth issues or developing alignment problems. If everything looks fine, we might simply monitor your child’s dental development yearly. If a problem is noted (for example, severe crowding or a bite issue), early intervention or phase one treatment might be recommended to guide jaw growth or make room for the adult teeth. Bringing your child for an early ortho visit gives you peace of mind and helps ensure that if braces are needed down the line, we time it just right for the best results.

You’re never too old to improve your smile! Adults of all ages can successfully straighten their teeth with braces or Invisalign. Dr. Ingberman has treated patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. The biological process of moving teeth is the same in an adult as in a teenager; it might move a tad slower in older adults, but the results can be just as impressive. The key is that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for orthodontic forces (we may coordinate with your general dentist to address any issues before starting). Many adults choose more discreet options like ceramic braces or Invisalign, but traditional braces are also effective for adults. Whether you missed out on braces as a kid or your teeth have shifted over time, we can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile now.

It’s not uncommon to encounter minor issues with braces, and most of them are easy to handle. If a bracket loosens or wire pokes your cheek, don’t panic. First, dry the area and put a piece of orthodontic wax (which we provide) over the troublesome bracket or wire to cushion it. This will protect your mouth until you can get it fixed. Then, give our office a call, we’ll schedule you to come in as soon as possible to repair the appliance. In the meantime, if a wire has come out of the back bracket, you can try using tweezers to gently guide it back into place or clip the end with clean nail clippers if it’s really bothering you.

True orthodontic emergencies are rare. However, if you experience severe pain, a large piece of your braces breaks, or you have an injury to your mouth, contact us right away. Dr. Ingberman makes time for urgent appointments so you won’t be uncomfortable for long. Remember, we’re here to support you throughout your treatment, no issue is too small, so call us whenever you’re unsure about something with your braces.

We want to make braces feasible for everyone who needs them. Brace Central offers interest-free monthly payment plans that allow you to pay for your braces over time, rather than all upfront. During your financial consultation, we’ll work out a payment schedule that fits your budget. A typical plan might involve a reasonable down payment and monthly installments spread over the course of your treatment. There’s no interest charged on our in-office plans, so you’re just paying the cost of treatment. We also partner with third-party financing options if needed and accept various payment methods. Our goal is to take the stress out of paying for braces, so you can focus on the exciting changes happening with your smile!