Braces at Kirk Orthodontics
Braces have been transforming smiles for generations, and thanks to modern technology, they’re more advanced, comfortable, and efficient than ever.
At Kirk Orthodontics, we offer a range of braces options, including LightForce 3D-printed braces, clear braces, and metal braces, to provide fully customized treatment tailored to your unique needs.
Why Choose Braces?
Braces are one of the most effective ways to achieve a straight, healthy smile and a properly aligned bite. They can correct a variety of orthodontic concerns, including:
Crowding and spacing issues
Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
Misaligned teeth and jaw imbalances
Teeth that are rotated or overlapping
Braces Options
We specialize in fully customized orthodontic treatment and offer two types of braces to meet different needs and preferences:
Lightforce 3D-Printed Translucent Braces
Metal Braces
LightForce™ Braces
LightForce™ Braces are the world’s first fully customized, 3D-printed braces, designed for a precise, comfortable, and more efficient orthodontic experience. Unlike traditional braces, which use standard brackets, LightForce brackets are custom-made for your unique teeth and bite—allowing for more accurate tooth movement and a shorter treatment time.
Treatment as personalized as a fingerprint
Using state-of-the-art digital technology, we begin by capturing your teeth and bite with our intraoral iTero scanner. Our orthodontists then carefully design a fully customized treatment plan, positioning each bracket in the optimal location for both function and aesthetics. These brackets are then 3D printed in a translucent ceramic material, making them both discreet and highly effective.
Because LightForce™ braces are tailored specifically to your smile, they allow us to streamline your treatment, resulting in fewer and shorter office visits to achieve the same or better outcome than traditional metal braces
Why choose Lightforce™?
Faster, More Efficient Treatment
Braces are designed to match your teeth exactly, which helps move them more efficiently and reduces overall treatment time.
More Comfortable & Precise Fit
Custom brackets mean a more natural fit, leading to less irritation and discomfort compared to traditional braces.
Cutting-Edge Digital Treatment Planning
Every step is precisely mapped out using advanced 3D imaging and digital software, ensuring precise results for esthetics and function.
Fewer Appointments, Less Time in the Chair
Because your treatment is digitally optimized from the start, fewer adjustments are needed, saving you time away from work and school.
Let’s talk about braces.
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LightForce braces are custom, 3D - printed braces, designed specifically for your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, which use standard sizes, LightForce brackets are made for a precise fit based on your digital treatment plan. This level of customization helps make treatment more efficient and may reduce overall treatment time compared to traditional braces.
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Yes! While LightForce clear braces provide a fully customized option, we still offer traditional metal braces for patients who prefer them or for cases where they may be the best option.
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Yes! Even though LightForce braces are clear, you can still add colours to your elastics for a fun, personalized look. We offer a colour menu with 16 different options, so you can mix and match to express your style.
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The length of treatment depends on the complexity of your case. On average:
LightForce Braces: Typically 12-18 months, depending on the severity of alignment issues
Traditional Braces: Generally 18-24 months, with variations based on individual needs
Dr. Kirk will provide a personalized timeline during your consultation.
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LightForce braces are designed for more precise, efficient tooth movement, which often means fewer office visits and shorter appointment times compared to traditional braces.
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Braces do not hurt when they are placed, but you may experience, mild soreness for a few days after getting them and after adjustments. This is normal and means your teeth are gradually shifting into place. Over-the-counter pain relief and orthodontic wax can help ease discomfort if needed.
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Yes, but you’ll need to be mindful of certain foods that can damage your braces. Avoid:
Hard foods like nuts, popcorn and ice
Sticky foods like caramel and chewing gum
Crunchy foods like chips and hard taco shells
Dr. Kirk and our team will provide guidance on braces-friendly foods and tips for eating comfortably during treatment.
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Yes. If you play sports, we provide orthodontic mouthguards to protect your teeth and braces. If you play a wind instrument, you may need a short adjustment period, but most musicians adapt quickly.
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Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential with braces. Follow these steps:
Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily using floss threader or orthodontic floss
Use an interdental brush to clean around brackets and wires
Dr. Kirk and our team will demonstrate the best techniques to ensure your teeth stay clean throughout treatment.
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If you experience any discomfort, a loose bracket, or a poking wire, visit our Common Orthodontic Issues page for guidance on how to handle minor issues at home and when to contact us for an appointment.
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Yes. All patients receive retainers after treatment to keep their teeth in their new positions. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting and help maintain your results long-term.
We also offer Smile Assurance, an optional program that provides 5 year additional retainer coverage. If you ever need a replacement retainer, Smile Assurance makes the process simple and cost-effective. Ask our team for more details.
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You might need braces if you have:
Crooked or crowded teeth
A bite issue (overbite, underbite or crossbite)
Gaps between teeth
Difficulty chewing due to misalignment
Concerns about the appearance of your smile
A lack of confidence in your smile that makes you hesitant to smile in photos or social situations
A desire for straighter, more balanced smile
The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation. No referral is needed, and Dr. Kirk will guide you through all your options.
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In most cases, we wait until all permanent teeth have come in before starting full orthodontic treatment, typically between ages 11 - 15. However, in some cases, an early course of limited braces is necessary to correct more urgent problems.
This is why every child can benefit from an orthodontic screening by age 7. At this early stage, Dr. Kirk can identify potential concerns and determine whether early treatment is needed or if it’s best to monitor development over time.
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The first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kirk. We’ll assess your teeth, discuss your treatment options, and create a personalized plan for your best smile.
