What Your Braces Journey Looks Like
Braces have come a long way from the bulky, uncomfortable appliances of the past. At Trail Ridge Dental, patients in Longmont and Johnstown, CO, can access advanced orthodontic services for straighter teeth, improved jaw alignment, and better oral health. Whether you’re dealing with crooked teeth, bite problems, or overcrowding, the benefit of braces is that they transform not just your smile—but your overall well-being.
Led by Dr. Sean Visger, our dentist’s office in Colorado provides braces treatment that blends comfort, modern technology, and personalized care. From traditional metal braces to ceramic and self-ligating options, patients across Berthoud, Mead, Firestone, and beyond trust our team for effective, long-lasting results.
To schedule a consultation for braces in Johnstown or Longmont, call our Johnstown office at 970-593-1010 or our Longmont location at 303-772-6960.
Why Orthodontic Treatment Matters
Straight teeth aren’t just about appearance—they play a huge role in your overall oral health. Misaligned teeth are harder to clean, making you more vulnerable to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Bite issues can also lead to discomfort in the jaw, difficulty chewing, and even speech problems.
Orthodontic treatment is designed to move teeth into their correct position using gentle, controlled force. When done properly, this improves oral hygiene, restores symmetry to your new smile, and supports long-term jaw alignment.
If your child, teen, or you as an adult are noticing crowding, spacing, or bite problems, it may be time to consider braces.
Types of Braces Available at Trail Ridge Dental
At our Johnstown and Longmont offices, we understand that no two smiles are the same. That’s why we offer a range of braces treatment options tailored to different age groups, preferences, and orthodontic needs:
Traditional Metal Braces
These stainless steel brackets and arch wires are the most commonly used system and are highly effective for complex alignment issues. They remain a popular choice for children, teens, and adults due to their durability and precision.
Ceramic Braces
Made with tooth-colored materials, ceramic braces offer a more discreet look while still using brackets and wires to move teeth. They’re a great option for patients concerned about aesthetics.
Self-Ligating Braces
These braces use a slide mechanism instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place, allowing teeth to move more freely and comfortably. Many orthodontic patients find this design reduces friction and may shorten treatment time.
Lingual Braces
Placed on the back side of the teeth (tongue side), lingual braces are completely hidden from view. They’re an option for adults seeking the least visible treatment possible.
Clear Aligners
Although not technically braces, clear aligners like Invisalign® are often part of our orthodontic services. They’re removable, nearly invisible, and best suited for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Interested in starting braces for you or your child? Contact Trail Ridge Dental in Johnstown at 970-593-1010 or call the Longmont team at 303-772-6960.
What to Expect During the Braces Process
Initial Consultation and Clinical Exam
Your first step will include a full evaluation of your bite, teeth, and jaw. This often involves X-rays, photos, and a detailed treatment plan customized to your needs.
Dr. Visger will:
- Assess the alignment of your upper teeth and lower teeth
- Identify any orthodontic issues such as spacing, overbite, or underbite
- Discuss the types of braces that may suit your goals
Patients may also be referred to orthodontic specialists or monitored for growth-related issues, especially in younger patients.
Getting Braces
The actual bonding appointment takes about one to two hours. Your metal brackets, arch wire, and (if applicable) rubber bands are placed carefully on your permanent teeth. This visit also includes instructions for how to care for your braces.
Many patients are surprised to learn that getting braces doesn’t hurt. You may feel some pressure and sensitivity for a few days, but this is a normal part of the braces work process.
During Treatment: Care, Adjustments, and Expectations
Once your braces are in place, you’ll come in every four to eight weeks for adjustments. These visits are essential to track your progress and make small changes to the arch wire, elastic bands, or brackets as your teeth carefully move into place.
Proper care is essential throughout the entire treatment:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush around the brackets
- Floss daily using floss threaders or water flossers
- Rinse with fluoride to strengthen teeth and prevent dental issues
- Use orthodontic wax or dental wax to cover sharp edges and prevent irritation
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that could cause a broken wire or loose bracket
Patients who play sports should wear a mouth guard to protect their appliances and avoid damage.
To get started, call Trail Ridge Dental in Longmont at 303-772-6960 or contact our Johnstown location at 970-593-1010 to schedule a braces evaluation.
Additional Appliances: Rubber Bands, Headgear, and More
Some orthodontic treatment plans may include tools beyond just braces. These help support specific movement or correct complex issues like jaw problems or major bite discrepancies.
Common additions include:
- Rubber bands to correct the alignment between the upper and lower teeth
- Orthodontic headgear or headgear tubes to guide jaw growth
- Buccal tubes for molar anchoring
- Post-treatment retainers to keep your teeth in their correct position
While these devices may sound intimidating, they’re used to support faster, more effective orthodontic care—especially in children and teens.
Braces for All Ages
Orthodontic patients are no longer just teenagers. More adults than ever are seeking braces to fix long-standing alignment issues, reduce wear on teeth, and improve their oral health.
Trail Ridge Dental welcomes multiple family members, from kids getting their first consult to parents finally pursuing the beautiful smile they’ve always wanted. Braces are a powerful solution for both functional and cosmetic improvement.
If you live in Frederick, Firestone, Berthoud, or nearby Longmont or Johnstown, we’d love to meet you and talk through your treatment options.
How Long Does Braces Treatment Take?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your alignment and bite. On average, most patients wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Some mild cases may take less than a year, while more involved treatments may extend past two years.
Factors that affect your timeline include:
- Age and growth patterns
- Severity of crowding or crooked teeth
- Patient compliance with the orthodontist’s instructions
- Use of additional appliances or tools
Dr. Visger will review your projected treatment length during your consultation and update you at each visit.
Braces Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of braces depends on the type of treatment, the appliances used, and the length of care. At Trail Ridge Dental, we aim to make orthodontic services accessible by working with many insurance plans and offering financing options.
In many cases, dental insurance plans help cover a portion of braces treatment, especially for patients under 18. Our administrative team will help you verify benefits and explore payment options so your care stays manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Braces may cause some soreness for a few days after each adjustment. This is a sign that your teeth are moving and the braces work is progressing. Over-the-counter pain relief and a softer foods diet can ease discomfort.
Absolutely. Many adults wear metal braces, ceramic braces, or clear aligners. It’s never too late to pursue orthodontic care that improves your oral health and confidence.
Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste after every meal. Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between brackets. Rinse with fluoride and follow all of your orthodontist’s instructions.
Call your dentist right away. A broken wire or loose bracket can delay progress or cause injury. Until your appointment, use dental wax to cover sharp edges.
Start Braces Treatment With Trail Ridge Dental
Getting braces is one of the most important steps you can take for a healthier smile and stronger bite. At Trail Ridge Dental in Longmont and Johnstown, Dr. Sean Visger provides trusted orthodontic care using today’s most advanced techniques—helping patients of all ages straighten their teeth and improve their overall oral health.
Whether you’re considering braces for your child, your teen, or yourself, we’re here to provide a clear, personalized treatment plan that works for your goals and lifestyle.
Call our Johnstown office at 970-593-1010 or our Longmont location at 303-772-6960 to schedule your consultation and explore your options for braces today. Trail Ridge Dental proudly serves patients across Longmont, Johnstown, Firestone, Berthoud, Mead, and surrounding Colorado communities.