I Need Braces – Do I Have to Go to an Orthodontist?

Do I really need to go to an orthodontist to get braces? You may love your family dentist, but the best quality braces treatment should be performed by a certified orthodontist. Riverside Orthodontics is here to ensure you get your braces right the first time with Dr. Kesselman. The professionals at Riverside Orthodontics in the Cos Cob, CT area offer a wide variety of treatments with braces and can help determine which is the best for you.

What types of braces are there?

Riverside Orthodontics offers a number of braces types so that you can find the best option for your orthodontic needs.

  • Metal braces: these are the most common type. Traditional metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive than ever before. Unlike the past we avoid the use of bands, or rings, around the teeth and attach braces to all teeth including the molars. Metal braces are a good choice for those seeking to minimize irritations and for those who play sports requiring a mouth guard.
  • Radiance: unlike metal brackets, each Radiance bracket is a jewel, made with clear, crystal grown sapphire and hardened by a heat process that makes it as sturdy as it is attractive. These braces are beneficial to patients who have allergies to certain metals, and are typically more comfortable for patients with esthetic concerns. Most patients prefer these brackets because they are virtually invisible.
  • Invisalign: the Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates called aligners that have been generated by computer aided design to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable BPA-free plastic that won’t irritate your cheeks and gums. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system. See the Invisalign tab for more information.
  • Invisalign Teen: Invisalign Teen is the ideal solution for teenagers wanting to perfect their smile with confidence. This system uses a series of clear removable aligners with a blue dot wear indicator crafted into them. Patients can still eat and drink what they want and brush and floss normally. This revolutionary system is designed specifically for teenagers and their busy lifestyles. These aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable BPA-free plastic that won’t irritate your cheeks and gums. Invisalign Teen is only available from your orthodontist. See the Invisalign Teen tab for more information.

Why should I get braces treatment from an orthodontist?

The team at Riverside Orthodontics is specially trained in tooth movement and jaw function. In terms of education, orthodontists first go to dental school and become dentists. Then they attend an orthodontic program for several more years to learn specifically about tooth movement, jaw function, and facial aesthetics. After that, they take a special exam to become Board Certified. Orthodontists handle assessing all alignment issues, and then they can advise patients on procedures like braces. When a patient decides to move forward on braces, an orthodontist can help them select the best option, and then manage their care.

Dr. Kesselman and other orthodontists have worked hard to get specialized training and education, in order to provide you with access to different dental solutions like clear braces, palette expanders and all types of braces. For the best orthodontic treatment in the Cos Cob, CT area, contact Riverside Orthodontics at 203-698-0045.


Dr. Scott Kesselman and the team at Riverside Orthodontics are experts in braces and other orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions pertaining to braces, clear braces, Invisalign, or Invisalign Teen in Riverside, CT, Cos Cob, CT, Ridgeway, CT, Stamford, CT, Fairfield County, CT or the 06807 zip code area, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Scott Kesselman contact Riverside Orthodontics at: (203) 698-0045

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