A Better Way to Straighten Teeth: Clear Braces at Ellicott City Orthodontics

Our initial option for straightening the teeth of children and teenagers is clear braces at Ellicott City Orthodontics. We strive to establish a tailored treatment that is as effective, comfortable, and healthy as possible. Our orthodontists, including Dr. Pardis Parizadeh, are dedicated to providing the highest quality orthodontic treatment tailored to the unique needs of every patient.

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What Are Clear Braces?

Clear braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but with clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in with the teeth. They offer the patient a functioning but less visible solution if the patient requires complete orthodontic treatment but does not wish for anything quite so noticeable. Clear wiring using clear brackets can even be completed with tooth-colored wires, making it even less noticeable.

Clear braces are ideal for children and teenagers who need structural correction but prefer a less noticeable look over the more traditional metal braces. Clear braces, with proper care and cooperation, can provide outstanding results for most forms of orthodontic issues.

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Issues Clear Braces Can Correct

Dr. Pardis can correct several issues with clear braces, such as:

Spaces between the teeth

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• Severe crowding

An initial orthodontic assessment in early childhood is required to ascertain the degree of crookedness of your child's teeth and how the ideal mode of treatment would be. Clear braces are an excellent choice for medium to complex cases of tooth alignment.

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The Clear Braces Process

Clear braces treatment starts with a comprehensive consultation at our Ellicott City office. Dr. Parizadeh, utilizing the most modern diagnostic equipment, including iTero digital impressions and digital X-rays, will develop an overall treatment plan to address your child's orthodontic issue.

Step 1: Initial Evaluation:

• Comprehensive dental exam and radiography
• iTero® scanner digital impressions
• Analysis of bite and jaw position
• Discussion of expectations and goals

Step 2: Installation of Clear Braces

Once the treatment plan is complete, the transparent brackets are cemented on the teeth. Changing brackets are secured with an archwire and exert constant, gentle force to push the teeth into place. Regular adjustments are made during follow-up appointments to maintain the speed.

Step 3: Follow-up Adjustments

Patients return every few weeks to be realigned. At the visits, tooth movement is checked, the wire is tightened, and bracket or discomfort problems are solved. Each visit also offers an opportunity to reinforce brushing and flossing habits, which are essential for maintaining clean teeth and braces.

Step 4: Duration of Treatment

Although the duration of treatment varies with the level of complexity involved in each case, 18 to 24 months is the standard timeframe for patients who wear clear aligners, also known as clear braces. Regular visitation appointments, a strict diet, and good oral hygiene are essential for proper treatment.

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Tools and Technology Used

Ellicott City Orthodontics employs advanced orthodontic technology to deliver superior results and painless treatment. Some of the tools used in our clear braces treatment are:

• iTero® Digital Impressions: Adieu to the old molds, and it exactly captures 3D images.
• Digital X-rays: Make an accurate diagnosis with minimized radiation exposure.
• Digital Intraoral Cameras: Provide real-time, high-quality images for clinicians and patients.
• Lasers: Employed to perform some procedures to achieve accuracy and minimize discomfort.
• Electronic Medical Records: Provides accurate record-keeping, efficient insurance processing, and better confidentiality.

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Care and Maintenance

Clear braces require proper care to prevent staining and maintain a low-profile appearance. This enables patients to maintain clean braces and oral hygiene and be supervised while undergoing treatment:

• Brush twice a day, preferably after meals
• Interdental brushes and threaders eliminate bacteria between wires and beneath brackets
• Rinse using antibacterial mouthwash
• Steer clear of sticky, hard, or chewy foods that will destroy the brackets or wires
• Check for inflammation and tenderness, and apply orthodontic wax if necessary

Parents should regularly monitor their child's brushing and flossing habits to ensure consistent cleaning, especially during the early stages of treatment.

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Managing Pain and Emergencies

While all patients adjust to their braces within a few days, some may experience a little discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can be used as needed. If there have been any loose wires or fractured brackets, patients can call our office immediately so we can perform the necessary repairs.

We also advise that the following are available to patients:

• Dental wax
• Interdental brushes
• Other elastic bands (if needed)
• Sterile tweezers
• Orthodontic relief gel

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Meet the Doctor

Board-eligible Dr. Pardis Parizadeh, DDS, has undergone intense orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic training. She graduated from undergraduate college summa cum laude and was awarded her DDS from New York University College of Dentistry, ranking in the top 1% of her class. She finished her orthodontic residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine-affiliated Montefiore Medical Center. Dr. Parizadeh strives to utilize the latest technologies and provide accurate, individualized care for children and teens.

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Why Choose Ellicott City Orthodontics for Clear Braces

Dr. Pardis combines all procedures with a special combination of theoretical learning and clinical experience. She has been selected as part of the only 1% to graduate from NYU Dental School and completed her orthodontic residency at Montefiore Medical Center, where her ability and empathy were recognized.

The entire team at Ellicott City Orthodontics is committed to creating a welcoming environment where young patients feel comfortable, respected, and understood. Being pediatric- and adolescent-specialized orthodontists allows us to appreciate the unique needs of young patients, such as how to best manage their expectations and encourage healthy hygiene habits.

Our office is equipped with the latest technology to maximize the diagnostic, treatment, and monitoring stages of care. From iTero scanners and digital X-rays to EMR integration and intraoral cameras, we are committed to accuracy, clarity, and efficiency.

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Insurance and Payment Plans

Ellicott City Orthodontics views orthodontic treatment as a valuable investment. We strive to provide excellent care to every family with numerous payment and financing options.

We have some of the world's most recognized insurance carriers, including: Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, GEHA, MetLife, United Concordia.

For uninsured patients whose insurance does not cover orthodontics, we also offer flexible financing options. Discounts are available for complete payment upfront, third-party financing, and a monthly payment plan. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs) are also accepted and approved.

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Contact Us

We invite you to discover how inconspicuous braces at Ellicott City Orthodontics can improve your child's oral health. Throughout your first visit and every step of your treatment, our professionals are ready to assist you with expert care and understanding service.