Not everyone starting braces keeps all their teeth, and the reason might surprise you. Find out why removal is sometimes the key to a straighter, more comfortable smile.
Braces
Braces are one of the most trusted ways to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They use small brackets bonded to your teeth, connected by a thin wire that applies gentle, steady pressure to guide each tooth into the right position.
Who Is Orthodontic Treatment For?
Orthodontic treatment is a great option for children, teens and adults dealing with crowded, spaced or misaligned teeth, or bite problems. If your smile has been bothering you, braces could be the solution.
How Do They Work?
Think of braces like a slow, steady hand guiding each tooth into place over time. We start with a full dental exam, then place the brackets and adjust the wire periodically. Most people wear braces for several months to a few years, followed by a retainer to keep results lasting.
Benefits of Treatment
- Easier chewing and improved bite function
- Simpler cleaning with straighter, better-aligned teeth
- Reduced tooth wear from misalignment
- A more confident smile you feel great about
When Braces Work Better With Fewer Teeth
Starting your braces journey sometimes means saying goodbye to one or more teeth first. It might sound counterintuitive, but removal can actually be the foundation of a truly successful result.
There are a few key reasons why tooth removal before braces may be recommended:
- Overcrowding: When there simply isn’t enough room in your jaw, braces can’t shift teeth into proper alignment without creating space first.
- Bite correction: Removing certain teeth helps us address overbites or underbites more effectively during treatment.
- Protrusion: If your front teeth stick out significantly, extraction creates the room needed to bring them back into a natural position.
- Jaw size limitations: Not everyone has a jaw large enough to comfortably accommodate all their teeth, making removal a practical solution.
| Reason for Extraction | Who It Typically Affects | How It Helps Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Overcrowding | Children, teens and adults with small arches | Creates space for remaining teeth to align properly |
| Bite correction | Patients with overbites or underbites | Allows braces to reposition teeth and improve bite function |
| Protrusion | Patients with significantly protruding front teeth | Provides room to bring front teeth back into natural position |
| Jaw size limitations | Patients whose jaw cannot accommodate all teeth | Reduces dental crowding for a more comfortable, lasting result |
We always approach extraction recommendations carefully and only suggest it when it genuinely improves your outcome. Your comfort, function, and confidence are what guide every decision we make.
If you’re unsure whether you might need extractions before braces, we’re happy to walk you through your options and explain exactly what your treatment plan involves.
Braces at My Orthodontist
At My Orthodontist, we offer braces because we believe everyone deserves a smile they feel confident in. Straighter teeth are not just about appearance, they also support better oral health.
We are committed to making orthodontic care accessible and comfortable for patients of all ages. Whether you are a child, teenager, or adult, we are here to help you through every step of your treatment.
What Patients Are Saying
Patients at My Orthodontist consistently praise the friendly, professional staff and welcoming environment. From kids with dental anxiety to adults over 50 getting braces for the first time, the team makes everyone feel comfortable and informed. Standout team members like Victoria, Liz, Dr. Barnabei, and Dr. Hopkins go above and beyond to explain treatments clearly.
One testimonial captures this perfectly. As a first-time adult patient, this reviewer found the experience reassuring from the very start.
Rating: 5/5 stars
“Victoria M. has been my dental assistant and she is the absolute best!! She made me feel so relaxed… she takes her time and explains everything! If you’re looking for an Orthodontist to go to, My Orthodontist is the place for you!”
Read their full story
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How do braces work to straighten teeth?
At My Orthodontist, we use small brackets that are bonded to your teeth and connected by a thin wire. This wire applies gentle, steady pressure to guide each tooth into the correct position over time. We start with a full dental exam, place the brackets, and adjust the wire periodically throughout your treatment.
How long will you need to wear braces before your teeth are straight?
Most people wear braces for several months to a few years depending on their individual needs. After your braces come off, you will also wear a retainer to help keep your results lasting long term.
Why would you need a tooth removed before getting treatment?
Sometimes there simply is not enough room in your jaw for orthodontic treatment to work effectively. At My Orthodontist, we may recommend extraction if you have overcrowding, a significant overbite or underbite, protruding front teeth, or a jaw that cannot comfortably accommodate all your teeth. Removing a tooth first gives your remaining teeth the space they need to align properly.
Are braces a good option for adults or just for kids and teens?
Braces are a great option for children, teens, and adults alike. At My Orthodontist, we are committed to making orthodontic care accessible and comfortable for patients of all ages, whether you are getting braces for the first time at 50 or helping your child get started early.
What are the health benefits of straightening your teeth with braces?
Straighter teeth do more than improve your appearance. At My Orthodontist, we see patients enjoy easier chewing, simpler cleaning, and reduced tooth wear from misalignment. Correcting your bite also supports better long term oral health, giving you a smile that looks and functions its best. The American Association of Orthodontists highlights how proper alignment contributes to lasting oral health benefits beyond aesthetics.
Start Your Smile Journey Today
At My Orthodontist, we are here to help you find the smile solution that works best for you. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team to get personalized guidance on whether braces are right for you.