Self-ligating braces work without elastic bands around each bracket. Instead, tiny doors hold the archwire in place and allow it to slide better. That means your teeth move into place faster and more comfortably than traditional braces. Without the elastic bands, patients find self-ligating braces trap food less, so they're easier to clean. They also have shorter orthodontic checkups because elastics don't need to be changed.
Metal braces are the most tried-and-true method for straightening teeth. Did you know the origins of metal braces date back to ancient Egypt? We've come a long way since then! Today's braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever! They're also the less expensive way to get that gorgeous smile of your dreams!
Braces have long been the tried-and-true method to create beautiful smiles. Connolly Orthodontics offers self-ligating braces that are more efficient and more comfortable than the braces your parents wore. We also offer clear braces for those who want a less-visible treatment option. Traditional braces can also repair issues other orthodontic products cannot. That's why so many patients choose braces to create their perfect smile!
Connolly Orthodontics is proud to offer self-ligating braces to our patients. These braces work faster, more efficiently, and more comfortably than traditional metal braces. The result is a straight, beautiful smile in less time and with less discomfort than traditional braces. Our clear braces also offer excellent results but with less visibility, thanks to ceramic brackets that more closely match the natural color of your teeth. You'll be amazed at the transformation you will see with our braces!
"This is the BEST orthodontist in the city of Charlotte. The staff is extremely friendly and makes you feel like family. Dr. Connolly always have great energy, always happy, and truly care for his patients."
"They take the time to explain all of the details and best treatment for my daughters in a way that is easy to understand. My daughters enjoy going to their appointments and I highly recommend for you to check them out and see if they are the right fit for you and your family."
"The staff is super kind and accommodating and my son picked Connolly because he was willing to explain the why and how of the process. They've taken amazing care of my son and his teeth are looking SO nice!"
"As soon as I walk in they greet me by my first name. I love that they are willing to accommodate my schedule preferences instead of giving me a random appointment and sending me out the door like so many other medical facilities. Plus I'm always in and out with almost no wait."
"Absolutely love the friendly and clean environment. Everyone is so nice, comforting, and professional."
Braces treatment typically lasts 18–24 months, but the timeline depends on your bite, alignment needs, and whether rubber bands or other appliances are required. Some patients finish in as little as a year!
Braces tend to be less expensive than alternative options, such as Invisalign. Clear braces cost a little more than metal braces. Metal braces will range from about $2,000-$8,000. Clear braces average $3,500-$8,000. Connolly Orthodontics has financial options to help you pay for braces, from insurance and HSAs to in-house financing.
You're never too old to get the smile of your dreams! We treat many adult patients of various ages. Even patients who appear to have straight teeth can have a bad bite that causes headaches and jaw pain. You don't have to live with that, even as an adult! So whether you're 17 or 70, you could be a candidate for braces!
You will feel a bit of discomfort when you first get your braces because your teeth are being made to move for the first time. That should subside after a few days, and there are ways to relieve the pain in the meantime (here are a few extra tips!). You may feel a bit of discomfort after your braces are tightened, and your new braces may cause a mouth ulcer until your mouth "toughens up" and gets used to the braces, but again, this is temporary. For the most part, your braces won't bother you.
Avoid hard, sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods like caramel, popcorn, nuts, and ice. These can break brackets or bend wires. Soft foods are best during the first few days after adjustments. Check out our complete list of braces-friendly foods and what to avoid.
At your first braces appointment, we review your treatment plan, place your brackets and wires, teach you how to care for your braces, and help you understand what the first week will feel like. The entire process is gentle and usually takes 45–90 minutes.
Most patients have their braces adjusted every 6–8 weeks. These appointments allow us to change your wires, make small adjustments, and ensure your teeth are moving as planned. Soreness afterward is normal and usually lasts a day or two.
Brush after every meal using small circular motions and floss daily with a threader or water flosser. It may take a little practice at first, but keeping your teeth clean protects your gums and helps treatment stay on schedule.
Come sit in our comfortable lobby and visit with our friendly staff in our Ballantyne, NC, office. We're so glad you're here!
Have a cup of coffee while you wait, then enjoy the comfort of our open-concept exam room in our Matthews, NC, office. We can't wait to welcome you!
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