Phillips Family Orthodontics

BRACES ENCINITAS AND MIRA MESA CA

Innovative Braces For All Ages

For a healthier, more confident you, braces align teeth to return proper dental functions like speaking and chewing, and they make your teeth easier to clean. A future full of smiles and better tooth health is possible with orthodontic care using these specialized dental appliances. At Phillips Family Orthodontics, we take great pride in being your trusted source for comprehensive braces Encinitas and Mira Mesa CA solutions. 

25%

Adult Braces

25% of Adults Wear Braces

80%

Kids Braces

There are 4.5 million Americans wearing braces, with 80 percent of those ranging in age from 6 to 18

Time in Braces

Average treatment time for braces in our office is 18 months! The national average is 24 months.

92%

Recommended

A survey showed that of the 1.4 million adults who get braces every year, 92% would recommend them to a friend

Types of Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most commonly used orthodontic solution for proper tooth alignment. They consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets and wires meticulously engineered to reposition misaligned teeth over time. These braces work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth, encouraging them to gradually shift into their correct positions.

While treatment duration can vary depending on individual cases, the average time for achieving the desired results with traditional metal braces is typically around 18 months. This time-tested orthodontic option is perfect for those with various orthodontic issues, including severe misalignment, and offers a cost-effective solution for patients seeking effective teeth straightening.

Pros:
  • Efficient and versatile for various orthodontic issues.
  • Cost-effective option.
  • Elastic bands allow for customization with fun colors.
  • Require minimal compliance from the patient.
Cons:
  • Visible when smiling.
  • May cause minor discomfort or irritation.
  • Some foods are restricted to avoid damaging the braces during treatment.

Ceramic braces offer a discreet and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces while providing the same effective teeth straightening benefits. These braces are constructed using a translucent ceramic material that closely matches the natural color of your teeth, making them less noticeable.

Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces, utilizing brackets and wires to gently move teeth into their proper positions. However, it’s important to note that ceramic braces use slightly larger and more fragile brackets than their metal counterparts, which may require additional attention to oral hygiene.

Pros:
  • Less visible due to tooth-colored brackets and wires.
  • Effective for addressing various orthodontic issues.
  • Available with clear or tooth-colored ligatures.
Cons:
  • Higher cost compared to traditional metal braces.
  • Require careful cleaning and the avoidance of staining foods and drinks.

Self-ligating braces are a modern orthodontic option that share similarities with both traditional metal and ceramic braces. These braces can be crafted from either metal or ceramic materials, catering to patients’ preferences and needs. What sets self-ligating braces apart are their specialized brackets, designed to hold the archwire in place without the need for elastic rubber ties.

This innovation results in a streamlined appearance and reduces friction during the alignment process. The absence of ligatures enhances comfort and contributes to shorter appointment times, making self-ligating braces an attractive choice for those seeking efficient and discreet orthodontic treatment.

Pros:
  • Efficient and suitable for various orthodontic issues.
  • Minimal appearance with no need for elastic rubber ties.
  • Reduced friction for more comfortable treatment.
  • Fewer dental appointments required for adjustments.
Cons:
  • May not apply as much pressure as traditional braces.
  • Smaller brackets may be less effective for complex cases.
  • Treatment time may vary, and the brackets may require repair or adjustment.

Clear aligners, exemplified by popular systems like Invisalign®, offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. These aligners are crafted from transparent plastic material and are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, making them nearly invisible to others.

Clear aligners work by applying gentle pressure to specific teeth to gradually shift them into their desired positions. Unlike braces, clear aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, and perform oral hygiene without any hindrance. However, to achieve the best results, it is essential to wear them for 20 to 22 hours daily.

Pros:
  • Highly attractive due to their transparency.
  • Removable for eating, drinking, and easy oral care.
  • No discomfort from wires or brackets.
  • Minimal impact on daily activities and speech.
  • Suitable for addressing mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Cons:
  • Not suitable for severe orthodontic problems.
  • Requires disciplined wear for 20 to 22 hours daily.
  • Must be removed before eating or drinking to prevent staining.

Why Get Braces?

When it comes to achieving straighter, healthier smiles, braces have consistently proven to be a reliable and effective orthodontic treatment. By gently moving crooked teeth into their proper places, they make smiles straighter and more pleasing. Beyond their cosmetic benefits, braces are very important for oral health because they lower the risk of teeth, gum disease, and problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Meet Dr. Joseph Phillips, Your Braces Orthodontist

If you are in need of reliable braces treatment, Dr. Joseph Phillips is an orthodontist who is devoted to meeting your needs. Let Dr. Phillips, who has extensive training, a dedication to lifelong learning, and a genuine love for improving people’s smiles, be your guide toward a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Technology You Can Trust

At our practice, we understand that a thorough understanding of your dental needs is crucial to finding the right orthodontic solution. We utilize cutting-edge technology to ensure precise assessments. Our low-radiation digital X-rays and highly accurate 3D digital scanning give us a comprehensive view of your unique dental situation.

The Treatment Process

Our goal at Phillips Family Orthodontics is to provide a smooth and personalized orthodontic treatment experience so you can achieve a healthier, straighter smile without a hitch. This process includes:

Your journey begins with a personal consultation with Dr. Joseph Phillips, our experienced orthodontist. During this initial meeting, Dr. Phillips will take the time to understand your goals, concerns, and any specific issues related to your oral health. He will conduct a thorough examination to assess the current state of your teeth and bite.

In order to create accurate digital records of your jaw and teeth, we use cutting-edge technology such as digital X-rays and 3D scanners. For precise diagnosis and treatment planning, these digital impressions give a comprehensive picture of your oral anatomy.

Following a comprehensive assessment of your oral health and unique needs, Dr. Phillips will develop a fully customized treatment plan. This plan will outline the recommended orthodontic treatment, whether it’s traditional braces, clear aligners, ceramic braces, or another option. The treatment plan will also include a timeline and expected outcomes.

We understand that affordability is an important consideration when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Our office works with various insurance providers, and we offer flexible payment arrangements to make treatment as affordable as possible. Our financial coordinator will assist you in exploring payment options that suit your budget.

You can trust that Phillips Family Orthodontics will treat you with the utmost respect and provide you with the information you need to get the smile of your dreams with braces Encinitas and Mira Mesa CA.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper Oral Hygiene with Braces

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is essential. We’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to brush and floss effectively around your braces to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum issues. We may also recommend additional tools like interdental brushes or floss threaders to assist you in cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

Diet and Foods to Avoid

While wearing braces, it’s essential to be mindful of your diet to prevent damage to your orthodontic appliances. We’ll provide you with a list of foods to avoid, including hard, sticky, and crunchy items that can break brackets or wires. A diet rich in soft, nutritious foods is recommended to minimize the risk of orthodontic emergencies.

Routine Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups are an integral part of your post-treatment care. We recommend scheduling routine dental appointments every six months for cleanings and examinations. These visits allow us to monitor your oral health, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure your smile remains in optimal condition.

Retainers and Post-Treatment Care

After your braces are removed, we’ll provide you with retainers to maintain the alignment of your teeth. It’s crucial to follow our instructions for wearing retainers as prescribed. Over time, the wearing schedule may change to ensure lasting results. We’ll continue to monitor your progress during follow-up appointments to ensure the stability of your new smile.

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Let's get together and give you something to smile about.

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Let's get together and give you something to smile about.

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