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Key Benefits of Braces

  • Boosted Smile Confidence: Achieve a straight, beautiful smile.
  • Improved Oral Health: Easier to clean, reducing risk of cavities.
  • Better Bite Function: Fix overbites, underbites, and improve chewing.
  • Long-Term Durability: Prevent future dental issues with early treatment.
  • Customized Solutions: Choose from metal, ceramic, or clear aligners.

Gentle Dental Brighton

320 Washington St.
Brighton, MA 02135

Dental Office Hours

Monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Every Other
Sunday CLOSED
More Information

Municipal lot on Market Street and street parking available. Located on bus routes 57, 57A, 65, 501, and 503. Russian spoken here.

Gentle Dental Brighton

320 Washington St.
Brighton, MA 02135

Dental Office Hours

Monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Every Other
Sunday CLOSED
More Information

Municipal lot on Market Street and street parking available. Located on bus routes 57, 57A, 65, 501, and 503. Russian spoken here.

Gentle Dental Brighton Reviews

  • AV

    Alexandria VanOverberghe

    Brighton, MA

    I got my wisdom teeth extracted here the staff was WONDERFUL and KIND. I had never had a surgery and I have severe anxiety and the process was easy and painless. The healing regimen they provided has left me minimal pain. I would recommend Gental Dental Brighton to ANYONE!!

  • XD

    Xiaorui Dong

    Brighton, MA

    Dr. Yan did my exam and a cavity filling, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. She’s kind, considerate, and highly professional—she explained each step, worked gently, and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. The results look and feel great. Highly recommended!

  • NV

    Nicole Verde

    Brighton, MA

    Had a wonderful first appointment with Lauren and Dr. Yan. They were efficient but very personable, explaining each procedure. They were, true to name, very gentle and were very mindful about any possible discomfort. The receptionists were also friendly and warm. The facilities were clean and seemed very modern. Overall I would absolutely recommend this location!

How Do Teeth Braces Work?

Braces work by applying controlled pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into better alignment. The system uses brackets, wires, and bands to shift teeth gently. The brackets are bonded to each tooth, and the archwire connects them, applying continuous force. Over time, this pressure moves your teeth into the desired positions. As your teeth shift, the bone surrounding them changes to support the new alignment, leading to a straighter, healthier smile.

Types of Braces Available

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most commonly used type, offering effective treatment for a wide range of dental issues. Made of high-grade stainless steel, these braces are durable and reliable. They consist of brackets that are attached to your teeth, connected by an archwire that applies consistent pressure to move teeth over time.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces but are made from clear or tooth-colored materials. They are less visible than metal braces, making them a great option for those seeking a more discreet treatment. However, they can be more fragile and prone to staining, so care must be taken during treatment.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are placed on the back side of your teeth, making them nearly invisible. They work the same way as traditional metal braces but are hidden from view. Although discreet, they can be more difficult to clean and may cause more initial discomfort than braces placed on the front of the teeth.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces use a special clip instead of elastic bands to hold the archwire in place. This reduces friction and can shorten treatment time. The clips also make them easier to clean and maintain, as there are fewer components that trap food and plaque.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners like Invisalign are a modern alternative to traditional braces. These custom-made, clear trays fit over your teeth and gradually move them into position. Aligners are removable, allowing you to eat and brush your teeth without restrictions. They are ideal for patients with mild to moderate alignment issues who prefer a more aesthetic treatment option.

Braces Treatment Process

Duration of Treatment

The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of your orthodontic issue. For mild cases, treatment can take as little as 18 months. However, more complex issues may require 2-3 years. Regular check-ups are essential to ensure that the braces are working as expected and to make adjustments when necessary.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Your journey to a beautiful smile begins with a consultation at Gentle Dental. During this visit, we will assess your dental health, discuss your goals, and determine the most suitable treatment option. This may include digital X-rays and impressions of your teeth, which help us create a custom treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Customizing Your Treatment Plan

Once we’ve assessed your needs, we’ll design a personalized treatment plan for you. This will involve choosing the best type of braces or aligners for your case and determining the expected treatment timeline. The plan will also include details about follow-up appointments and how often we’ll monitor your progress.

Risks and Benefits of Braces

Advantages of Getting Braces

Braces offer significant benefits beyond just straightening your teeth. They improve the overall appearance of your smile, boost self-confidence, and address bite issues such as overbites, underbites, and misalignment. In the long run, braces can improve your oral health by making it easier to clean your teeth, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Common Side Effects and Risks

While braces are generally safe, there are some side effects to be aware of. These include discomfort, especially right after getting braces or after adjustments. The brackets and wires may also irritate your gums, but these issues can usually be managed with orthodontic wax and regular visits to the dentist. Additionally, braces can make it more difficult to maintain good oral hygiene, so diligent brushing and flossing are essential to avoid cavities and gum disease.

Post-Treatment Care and Maintenance

Caring for Your Braces

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial during your treatment. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily using specialized orthodontic floss or a floss threader to clean between the braces. We also recommend using mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup and keep your mouth fresh.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can damage your braces or cause discomfort during treatment. Avoid sticky or chewy foods like gum, caramel, and taffy, as they can get stuck in your braces. Hard foods, such as popcorn, nuts, and ice, should also be avoided to prevent damaging the brackets or wires. Always cut larger foods, like apples or carrots, into smaller pieces to avoid unnecessary pressure on your braces.

Retainers and Maintaining Results

After your braces are removed, wearing a retainer is essential to keep your teeth in their new position. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original alignment. Your orthodontist will provide you with instructions on how often to wear your retainer and for how long to ensure the long-term success of your treatment.

Dental Services in Brighton, MA

For more than just emergency care, our Brighton dental office provides a full spectrum of dental services. Whether you need a standard examination or complex cosmetic treatments, our team is equipped to handle all your dental requirements. Discover the variety of services we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age for getting braces?

Braces are effective for children, teens, and adults. Early evaluation is recommended around age 7 to assess the need for braces.

How can I maintain my oral hygiene while wearing braces?

We provide care tips, including special brushing techniques and tools for brace wearers.

Does insurance cover braces?

Insurance may cover braces for children, typically 20-50% of the cost, depending on your plan. Coverage for adults is often limited or not included. Check with your provider for details

Book an Appointment

First Time at Any Gentle Dental?
Preferred Appointment Time(s)

If your request is a dental emergency, or you would like to call and schedule your dental appointment, contact information for our offices can be found here: Gentle Dental Locations. New patient offer not valid for emergency appointments.