What Are Braces?
Frederick J. Norfolk, DMD and Associates offers braces as a reliable orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults who want straighter teeth and a healthier bite. Braces use brackets attached to the teeth and a connecting archwire to apply gentle, steady pressure that moves teeth into better positions over time. They can address crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, and bite concerns such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Correcting these issues can make teeth easier to clean and help distribute biting forces more evenly. Schedule a consultation at our Milford, MA practice to find out whether braces are the right option for your smile.
How Do Braces Straighten Teeth?
Treatment begins with an evaluation of your teeth, jaw, and bite, along with x-rays, photos, and impressions or digital scans. Our dental team uses this information to create a personalized treatment plan. On the day your braces are placed, the teeth are cleaned and prepared, and a small bracket is bonded to each tooth. An archwire is threaded through the brackets and held in place with small elastic bands or clips. Over the following months, the wire applies consistent pressure that gradually guides teeth into alignment. You will return for routine adjustment visits so the wire can be changed or tightened as your teeth move. Once treatment is complete, the braces are removed and a retainer is provided to help keep your teeth in their new positions.
What Are the Benefits of Braces?
Braces remain one of the most dependable ways to correct both simple and complex alignment concerns. Because they are fixed to the teeth, they work continuously without needing to be removed or tracked throughout the day. Benefits may include:
- Straightening crooked or rotated teeth
- Closing gaps and spaces between teeth
- Relieving crowding
- Correcting overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites
- Making teeth easier to brush and floss
- Distributing biting and chewing forces more evenly
- Treating complex cases that may not suit clear aligners
- Working around the clock without relying on daily wear
Build a Straighter, Healthier Smile
Crooked teeth and an uneven bite can affect how you chew, how easily you clean your teeth, and how confident you feel when you smile. Braces offer a proven way to move teeth into better alignment and create a more balanced bite that supports long-term oral health. Frederick J. Norfolk, DMD and Associates provides personalized orthodontic care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Contact our Milford, MA practice today to schedule a consultation and learn more about braces.
Frederick J Norfolk, DMD and Associates Reviews
Great dental practice that really cares about their patients.
Good experience and great staff. On time, no real wait for the appointment. Hygienist did a great job.
If you need Dental work, Dr. Norfolk, his Dental Staff, and his Office Team are “Best in Class”. This is a Dental Practice that cares about their patients and provides outstanding Dental work.
There's sinply no better dentist than Dr Norfolk I never worry about a thing when it go in for dental work under his expert care..He and his excellent and friendly staff are the very best!
I have had A LOT of dental work and procedures from injuries and genetics and this group of practitioners is by far the most precise, professional and compassionate I have encountered. I have recommended the Norfolk group to everyone I am in contact. Everyone has returned with a superlative responses and experience. I think Dr Norfolk is a caring and great dentist and person. (I am not related to him)
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Total Reviews
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to wear braces?
Treatment time varies based on how much the teeth need to move and the complexity of the bite. Many patients wear braces for about one to three years. Our team will give you an estimated timeline during your consultation and track your progress at each visit.
Do braces hurt?
Braces are not painful to place, but the teeth and gums may feel sore for a few days after they are first applied and after adjustments. This tenderness usually fades as your mouth adjusts. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers can help during this time, and orthodontic wax can ease irritation from brackets rubbing against the cheeks or lips.
What foods should I avoid with braces?
Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can break brackets or bend wires. It is best to avoid items such as popcorn, nuts, hard candy, caramel, gum, and ice. Cutting crunchy foods like apples and carrots into small pieces can also help protect your braces.
Am I too old for braces?
Adults can benefit from braces at any age as long as their teeth and gums are healthy. Many adults choose orthodontic treatment to correct concerns they never addressed as children or to fix teeth that have shifted over time. A dental exam can help determine whether braces are a good fit.
Will I need a retainer after my braces come off?
Yes. Teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions after braces are removed. Wearing a retainer as directed helps keep your results stable. Our team will explain how often to wear your retainer and how to care for it.