Orthodontic Care in Brooklyn: What You Should Know
Let’s be honest: no one dreams about getting braces. But you know what people do dream about? Smiling in a photo without hiding their teeth. Chewing comfortably. Speaking clearly. Feeling like the best, most confident version of themselves.
At Park Slope Dental Arts, we’re here to make that dream a reality, without the stress, confusion, or outdated metal stereotypes. Whether you’re 13 or 53, orthodontics in Brooklyn has come a long way, and we’re bringing the best of it right to your neighborhood.
“Modern orthodontics is more than straightening teeth,” says Dr. Richard Lee, board-certified orthodontist at Park Slope Dental Arts. “We’re helping patients achieve a smile that helps them work toward their goals.”
Understanding Orthodontic Care
At its core, orthodontic care works by harnessing your body’s natural ability to adapt and change. Your teeth aren’t rigidly fused to your jawbone; they’re held in place by a network of fibers and surrounded by living bone. Orthodontic appliances (whether brackets and wires or clear aligners) apply light, continuous pressure to a tooth, triggering a biological process.
On the side of the tooth where pressure is applied, specialized cells begin to resorb (break down) a tiny amount of bone. On the opposite side, new bone is deposited (built up). This controlled remodeling of your jawbone allows the tooth to gradually move into its new, desired position. Dr. Lee’s expertise, combined with advanced digital tools like iTero® scanning, ensures these forces are meticulously calibrated, guiding your teeth with precision for a healthy and beautiful outcome.
What is Orthodontics?
As a branch of dentistry, orthodontics is more than cosmetic (although we love a good smile glow-up!). It involves diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, including:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Jaw alignment problems
- TMJ-related discomfort due to bite issues
Straightening your teeth can not only improve how your smile looks; it can also make it easier to clean your teeth, reduce your risk of gum disease, and improve bite function.
Common Orthodontic Problems
We often see patients who’ve struggled for years with crowding, overlapping teeth, or discomfort when chewing. Others may be dealing with relapse from past treatment (we see you, forgotten retainers). Orthodontic treatment addresses these concerns by creating balanced alignment that supports long-term oral and overall health.
Your Orthodontic Options in Brooklyn
Orthodontics has come a long way from the days of only one option which meant “metal mouth.” At Park Slope Dental Arts, we offer a full suite of options, using modern technology like iTero® digital scanning and Dental Monitoring® to customize your care.
Braces: Still a Reliable Choice
Still one of the most effective tools in our toolkit, modern metal braces have been upgraded for comfort and discretion. Our practice also offers Damon™ self-ligating braces, which use specialized brackets to reduce friction and often shorten treatment time. They’re ideal for more complex cases and great for patients who need powerful, consistent results. Plus, with tooth-colored options and thin wires, they’re more discreet than the braces your mom wore as a teenager.
Invisalign: Discreet Alignment
At Park Slope Dental Arts, we often recommend Spark™ Clear Aligners. Why? They’re made from TruGEN™, an advanced material that offers improved clarity and stain resistance. Clear aligners are removable, comfortable, and virtually invisible, making them popular with adults and teens who want a flexible, aesthetic-friendly solution.
Other Orthodontic Appliances
While full braces or aligners are appropriate for comprehensive treatment, many patients benefit from more targeted approaches. With or without comprehensive treatment, we offer specialized orthodontic solutions designed to address specific issues or serve as early interventions:
- Interceptive orthodontics for younger children to guide proper development
- Limited orthodontics focusing treatment on specific issues rather than full mouth
- Habit appliances that help prevent or correct thumb-sucking behaviors
- Space maintainers to preserve proper tooth spacing after premature loss of baby teeth
- Face masks for correcting jaw growth and alignment issues
- Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw and create proper space for teeth
- Fixed retainers permanently bonded to maintain tooth position
- Removable retainers for flexible maintenance of orthodontic results
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics can do more than deliver straighter teeth; it helps support your overall health.
Improved Oral Health
Crooked or overlapping teeth can make brushing and flossing a challenge, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. The inflammatory processes and bacterial burden associated with gum disease has been linked to a host of systemic conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Hypertension
- Metabolic syndrome
- Osteoporosis
- Inflammation
So you see, straight teeth are not only easier to care for, but your ability to keep them healthy could reduce your risk of other health problems.
Enhanced Aesthetics and Confidence
A straighter smile can do wonders for how you feel. Many patients tell us they smile more freely, feel more confident at work or in photos, and can finally stop hiding their teeth after treatment. Imagine how feeling more confident in your smile could enhance your life.
Long-Term Dental Well-being
Orthodontic treatment can correct uneven pressure on teeth and joints, reduce the risk of tooth wear, and even help relieve jaw discomfort related to bite problems. That’s not just a win for your smile; it’s a win for your entire oral ecosystem.
Choosing the Right Orthodontist in Brooklyn
It’s not just what type of treatment you get; it’s who you trust to guide the process. At Park Slope Dental Arts, we believe relationships matter.
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Richard Lee is a board-certified orthodontist with years of experience treating both kids and adults. His specialized training and dedication to clinical excellence are matched only by his ability to put patients at ease.
Treatment Philosophy
We’re not a “one-size-fits-all” office. We listen carefully, ask the right questions, and design treatment plans that meet your goals, lifestyle, and timeline. Whether you’re hoping to finish in time for graduation or simply want to stop your teeth from shifting, we’ve got you.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Our Brooklyn patients consistently mention how comfortable, supported, and informed they feel throughout the process. We invite you to check out our Google reviews and see what your neighbors are saying.
Technology
From modern orthodontic solutions to at-home monitoring, advanced imaging, and post-braces care, we’ve embraced dental and orthodontic technology to enhance your experience with us and provide the best possible care.
The Orthodontic Treatment Process at Park Slope Dental Arts
We use an advanced, comfortable approach to orthodontics, designed to fit into your life, not disrupt it.
Initial Consultation and Examination
We start with digital scans using iTero® and a comprehensive exam. You’ll meet with Dr. Lee to discuss your concerns and goals.
Customized Treatment Plans
Based on your needs, we’ll recommend the best orthodontic solution and walk you through what to expect. We can even show you a simulated outcome of your smile transformation before you start.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
With Dental Monitoring®, many of our aligner patients can check in virtually between visits, saving time and allowing us to track progress remotely. Braces patients come in regularly for checkups and adjustments, and we’ll always keep you updated on your progress.
Cost of Orthodontic Treatment in Brooklyn
Orthodontic treatment is an investment, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Factors Affecting the Price
Costs vary depending on the type of treatment, complexity of your case, and duration. We’ll give you a transparent estimate before we begin.
Insurance Coverage and Financing Options
We accept most dental insurance plans and will help you understand what’s covered. We also offer flexible third-party financing options to help you spread out the cost with predictable monthly payments.*
Maintaining Your Smile After Orthodontic Treatment
The work doesn’t stop when the braces come off (sorry, we had to say it). Keeping your new smile aligned takes commitment, but we try to keep it simple.
Retainers: Key to Long-Lasting Results
We offer both fixed and removable retainers. Fixed retainers stay in place 24/7, while removable ones are worn full-time at first, then only at night. We’ll help you choose the right one for your lifestyle.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups are essential for protecting your investment. We’ll provide tailored instructions to help keep your teeth clean and healthy after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics in Brooklyn
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most treatments range from 6 to 24 months, depending on your needs and compliance.
Am I too old for braces or aligners?
Nope! As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you could be a candidate for orthodontics at any age.
Do braces or aligners hurt?
You might feel some pressure or soreness when treatment starts or when switching aligners. It’s typically mild and fades quickly.
Is Spark the same as Invisalign?
They’re both clear aligner systems, but Spark offers advanced material and enhanced clarity. We’ll help you choose the best option based on your case.
Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation at Park Slope Dental Arts
Orthodontics can feel like a big step, but it could be a step toward a healthier, more confident you. Whether you’re curious about clear aligners, thinking about braces for your teen, or ready to finally fix that bite issue that’s been bugging you for years, we’re here to help.
Schedule a consultation at Park Slope Dental Arts in Brooklyn today, and let’s start building your best smile, on your terms.
*Third-party financing is subject to approval; terms and conditions may apply.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions. Your results may vary.