Braces in Fresno, CA
Achieve a Beautiful, Healthy Smile
Braces are a popular orthodontic treatment option for kids, teens, and adults. They are a safe and effective way to align teeth and address a number of orthodontic issues. At Nalchajian Orthodontics, we offer a wide variety of orthodontic treatments to help you achieve an aligned smile that looks great and functions properly. Advances in orthodontics allow you to choose from a variety of treatment options to suit your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
During your initial consultation with Dr. Greg Nalchajian, Dr. Nicole Nalchajian, or Dr. Victoria Geren, we will discuss all your options for braces and create a custom treatment plan for you or your child. We offer braces treatment for patients of all ages in Fresno, CA. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
How Do Braces Work?
Traditional metal braces remain a very popular choice for their affordability and performance and are still recognized as the most common orthodontic technique. Today's braces have evolved to offer an experience more comfortable and customizable than ever before. This treatment works by using brackets and wires to move teeth with gradual pressure. Over time, your teeth will shift into their proper positions, improving your bite, alignment, and confidence.
There are four components of braces:
- The piece that attaches to the tooth and arch wire, called the bracket
- The bond that cements the bracket to the tooth
- The arch wire that runs across the entire upper or lower arch and through each bracket
- The ligature elastic, which fits around each bracket and holds the arch wire in place
With metal braces, stainless steel brackets and wires are used. Ceramic braces work similarly, but they are made of a tooth-colored ceramic material instead of stainless steel.
What to Expect During Braces Appointments
During your adjustment appointments, your orthodontist will check to make sure that every component of your appliance is in place and that your treatment is going to plan. Your orthodontist will then adjust your braces that will continue to shift your teeth into proper alignment. Some patients may experience minimal discomfort after an adjustment, but most patients forget they are even wearing braces.
The ligature elastics, ties, and brackets are offered in a variety of colors and can be changed during adjustments. This is a fun and special way to show off your orthodontic treatment and gives you the opportunity to show off your unique style.
Typically, we will schedule a braces check-up appointment every 4 to 8 weeks. If you have a question for us at any point during your braces treatment, please give us a call. Our team is happy to answer any questions that you may have and can work through several solutions over the phone.
Types of Braces
From traditional braces to clear aligners, our office has multiple options to suit your orthodontic needs and personal preferences. Here are a few of the most popular options for braces.
- Traditional metal braces are a common orthodontic technique that straightens the teeth using metal brackets and wires. The ligatures and ties used with traditional braces come in a variety of colors that can be changed at every adjustment for added fun. Clear ligatures and ties are offered as well.
- Ceramic braces are popular among those who have cosmetic concerns about traditional braces because they are less visible. However, they are often placed on the upper front teeth only due to the extra care required.
Life With Braces
By making a few small adjustments to your day-to-day routine, you can ensure that your new appliances feel comfortable, stay clean, and create a smile that shines for years to come!
Eating With Braces
While plenty of your favorite foods and snacks can be enjoyed while you have braces, some foods can damage your appliances and need to be avoided.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
- Chewy foods: bagels, licorice, beef jerky
- Crunchy foods: popcorn, chips, ice
- Sticky foods: caramel candies, chewing gum
- Hard foods: nuts, hard candies
- Foods that require biting into: corn on the cob, whole apples, carrots
Foods You Can Eat with Braces
- Dairy: soft cheese, pudding, milk-based drinks
- Breads: soft tortillas, pancakes, muffins (without nuts)
- Grains: pasta, soft-cooked rice
- Meats/poultry: soft-cooked chicken, meatballs, lunch meats
- Seafood: tuna, salmon, crab cakes
- Vegetables: mashed potatoes, steamed spinach, beans
- Fruits: applesauce, bananas, fruit juice
- Treats: ice cream (without nuts), milkshakes, Jell-O®, soft cake
Soreness From Braces and Appliances
It is normal to feel sore after getting braces. An over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen, can help relieve the pain. Remember that any discomfort is temporary. You will start to feel better in 3–4 days.
Your mouth might feel different for a little while and can take up to 2 weeks to get used to the new appliances. Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may also become irritated during this time. Wax can be applied to reduce tenderness. Loose teeth during your treatment is normal—in fact, it is necessary for tooth movement. Once your treatment is complete, your teeth will no longer be loose.
Loose Wires and Bands
Please contact our office if your wires and bands become loose. We will resolve this issue as soon as possible and repair your appliance if needed. If you are unable to see us right away, you can use the back of a spoon or a pencil eraser to push a loose or poking wire back into position gently. If you are experiencing any pain or irritation because of a broken wire, wax or a cotton ball soaked in water can help. Be sure to bring any piece of your appliance that may have broken or fallen off to the appointment.
Taking Care of Your Appliances
You need to know how to take care of your appliances and follow your orthodontist’s instructions, such as the use of your rubber bands, retainer, and other appliances.
Playing Sports With Braces
To prevent damage while you play sports, consider wearing a mouth guard. In the case of a sports emergency, check your mouth and appliance for any sign of damage. Contact us immediately if you notice a loose wire or bracket.
Taking Care of Your Teeth
During your orthodontic treatment, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Improper care can lead to a delay in your orthodontic treatment or even cavities and gum disease. Be sure to clean and wear your appliances as directed.
Braces in Fresno, CA
Whether you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child or yourself, our goal is to deliver a positive and fun orthodontic experience. To learn more about your treatment options for yourself or your child, we encourage you to contact our office to schedule a complimentary consultation. Drs. Greg Nalchajian and Nicole Nalchajian will assess your current oral health situation and help you select the type of braces that will provide a beautiful new smile.
Hear From Braces Patients
These patients can tell you about their firsthand experience undergoing braces at our office.
Reviews From Our Braces Patients
"I was super self conscious about my smile, and I always thought that I was really ugly and gross. I basically got my braces, and then you sometimes get new wires, you get rubber bands, and it's actually really fun, and then it just shapes your teeth, and then soon, they're off. I'm getting mine off right before this summer. People here make it so amazing and fun, I just can't even describe it. Anyone from Bass Lake, where I'm from, Yosemite, or Oakhurst, I would recommend coming to Nalchajian because it's the best place you can go, no doubt about it."
"My favorite thing would probably be the staff here, 'cause they’re really just—they help me with my nerves, they calm me down. They greeted me with smiles. They were really happy that I was here. I was really nervous so they kind of, just, helped me, calmed me down. Treatment was a lot easier than I thought. They took it really slow, and it was step-by-step, baby steps, and they just helped me throughout. When they first showed me the mirror, I was really nervous to look, cause I thought I was going to look really different. When I looked, I was smiling, and I’ve never stopped smiling. I would give five stars out of five. They were amazing here! "
"When we first walked through the door here at Nalchajian, we felt very welcomed. My experience with Dr. Greg—he just seems like a really down to earth, fun person. Dr. Nicole always has a smile on her face, and I really enjoy seeing her whenever we come here. When I first learned that my son, you know, was going to have several sets of braces, that was a little nerve-wracking for me. But when we got here, the way they explained it, I felt a lot more comfortable once I got here. I’m happy that I chose Nalchajian for my son, and I like that they make the kids feel comfortable. You can tell that it’s a real kid-friendly place. I would definitely recommend Nalchajian Orthodontics."
"My name is Cammie, I'm from Fresno, and I am currently in braces from Nalchajian Orthodontics. When I first walked into this practice, it gives such a warm feeling and a welcome feeling. The staff here is very personable. Dr. Nicole and Dr. Greg are amazing. They're spot on. They take their time to make sure they meet every need. It's been great since I've received my braces. I have a big personality, so I definitely need a great big smile to match that personality. My overall experience here has been over-the-top fantastic. I would recommend Nalchajian Orthodontics. My smile—it speaks for itself."
"When I was younger, I kind of had a lot of issues in my mouth, like crowding, and just a lot of pain that would usually happen of teeth moving around, so then my parents decided it was time to go to Dr. Nicole. When I first started out here, they kind of put me on a band system, where I had two metal bands in my mouth that would control how my teeth moved. I had to realize it was a step further into my nice smile that I've always wanted. Since I got my braces off, my confidence level has been shooting through the roof. Dr. Nicole is probably one of the best people I've ever worked with. The rest of the team here was actually really sweet. I made a lot of connections with the assistants here and the front desk workers. I highly recommend my friends in Kerman, Selma, and Fowler to go to Nalchajian Orthodontics."
Frequently Asked Questions: Braces
Do braces hurt?
Most patients have little to no pain while wearing braces. After your braces are tightened, it’s normal to feel some pressure for a few days or a week—that means they’re working! You can manage any discomfort with ice packs or over-the-counter pain relievers.
What is the right age for braces?
A child should visit an orthodontist around the age of 7. Early treatment can prevent the need for future orthodontics and promotes healthy development of the adult teeth. Most children who need braces will get them between the ages of 9 and 14. One great thing about braces is that there’s no age limit! Many adults also wear braces to correct issues and feel more confident about their smile. Learn more about Orthodontics for Children and Orthodontics for Adults.
What do rubber bands for braces do?
Rubber bands apply extra force on your teeth to reposition your jaw. They are very helpful in correcting bite issues and also straightening your teeth. When you start wearing rubber bands, we will show you how to put them on and which brackets they attach to. You should wear your rubber bands 24 hours a day and only take them out as instructed by your orthodontist.
Should I get braces?
Braces can benefit you in many ways, from improving your health to helping you feel more confident. You should talk to an orthodontist about braces if you or your child have crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, difficulty flossing or brushing, jaw problems, or notice your bite seems “off” when biting and chewing.
Your Family-Friendly Orthodontic Experts
We look forward to caring for you and your family at Nalchajian Orthodontics. Schedule an appointment today to start your journey to a beautiful, healthier smile!