Braces vs Veneers: Which Option Is Better for Your Smile Goals?

A lot of people want to improve their smile—but what’s the best way to do it? Are you looking to straighten your teeth or just fix how they look? That’s where the real difference between braces vs veneers comes in. Both can improve your smile, but they do it in very different ways. Do you have gaps, crowding, or bite issues? Braces might be what you need. Or are your teeth mostly healthy, but you’re not happy with the color or shape? Veneers could be the better option. Not sure which direction to take? You’re not alone—and that’s exactly where Zaidi Orthodontics can help. At our practice, we take the time to understand your goals and recommend what makes the most sense for your smile. If you’ve been going back and forth between braces and veneers, this guide will give you the answers—simple, clear, and right to the point. What Are Braces? Braces are a common way to fix crooked teeth, gaps, or bite problems. They work by slowly moving your teeth into better positions using small brackets, wires, and sometimes rubber bands. These parts stay on your teeth and are adjusted over time by your orthodontist. Most people wear braces for about 12 to 24 months, depending on how much their teeth need to move. During that time, braces can fix more than just how teeth look—they also improve how they work and fit together. What Are Veneers? Veneers are thin covers that go on the front of your teeth to make them look better. They’re made from strong materials like porcelain or resin and are shaped to match your smile. People choose veneers to fix things like chipped teeth, stains, or small gaps. They can also help if your teeth are uneven or shaped differently. The process is quick—usually just a couple of visits—and the results are instant. But here’s the thing: veneers only change the look of your teeth. They don’t move teeth or fix bite problems. When looking at braces vs veneers, veneers are a great pick if your teeth are healthy and you just want a cleaner, whiter, or even smile. Comparing Braces and Veneers: 7 Factors to Consider When deciding between braces and veneers, it helps to look at a few key areas that can guide you toward the option that fits your smile goals best. 1. Purpose of Treatment Braces are used to move teeth that are crowded, spaced too far apart, or not lined up right. They also help fix bite issues, like overbites or underbites. This makes them a strong choice for anyone who wants to improve both the look and function of their smile. Veneers, on the other hand, are thin covers that go on the front of your teeth. They help with things like discoloration, chips, or teeth that are uneven or slightly gapped. But veneers don’t move your teeth or change your bite. If your main concern is how your teeth work, braces are likely the better pick. If you’re more focused on appearance, veneers might be enough. It’s important to remember that veneers can’t replace orthodontic treatment if alignment issues are present. 2. Treatment Timeline Braces take time to work. Most people wear them for 12 to 24 months, depending on how much correction is needed. Your orthodontist adjusts the wires regularly to help shift your teeth little by little. Veneers are much faster. You can usually get them in just two or three appointments, often within a few weeks. They instantly change how your smile looks. If you’re looking for long-term improvement that fixes both looks and function, braces may be the right move. But if you’re hoping for a quick fix and your teeth are already in decent shape, veneers can give you a fast upgrade. The timeline matters, especially if you’re working around an event or personal deadline. 3. Invasiveness and Reversibility Braces are non-invasive. They don’t change your tooth structure—once they’re off, your teeth are still the same, just straighter. For many people, that makes braces a comfortable and low-risk option. Veneers require removing a thin layer of enamel from each tooth. This step helps the veneers stay in place and look natural, but it’s permanent. Once that enamel is gone, it can’t be replaced. That means you’ll always need some kind of cover on those teeth in the future. When weighing braces vs veneers, think about how permanent you want the change to be. Braces are more of a temporary tool that leads to lasting results. Veneers give instant results but come with a lifelong commitment. 4. Aesthetic Impact During Treatment Braces—especially metal ones—are easy to see, and that can affect how you feel about smiling during treatment. Ceramic options are a bit less noticeable, but they’re still there. This can be tough for people who want something more private. Veneers skip that step completely. You walk in with your natural teeth and leave with a whole new look. There’s no waiting, and no visible treatment phase. While this article isn’t focusing on clear aligners, they are another option if visibility is a big concern. Still, veneers clearly win in this area when it comes to appearance during treatment. 5. Longevity and Maintenance Braces offer long-term results, especially if you wear your retainer as advised once treatment is done. Your straightened teeth can stay in place for life with the right care. Veneers usually last 10 to 15 years. They’re strong but not unbreakable. Biting hard items, grinding your teeth, or skipping dental cleanings can shorten their lifespan. Depending on the material, they can also stain over time. Keeping good habits—like brushing, flossing, and dental checkups—is important for both options. Still, in terms of maintenance, veneers may need a bit more attention over time to keep them looking good. 6. Cost Considerations Braces usually have a lower total cost compared to veneers. A full braces treatment typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the case. If treatment is needed for

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Signs You May Need Braces (Even as an Adult)

Braces / Presmult Dev

Some people smile without thinking. Others feel the need to hide theirs. Which one sounds more like you? Maybe your teeth have shifted over time. Maybe you’re noticing crowding, gaps, or discomfort when you bite. These might be signs you may need braces, even as an adult. More adults are asking the same questions: Is it too late to fix my teeth? Will braces make a real difference? The answer is yes—to both your comfort and your confidence. Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. They’re helping adults improve not only the way their smile looks but also how their teeth work day to day. At Zaidi Orthodontics, adults are supported every step of the way. A simple checkup can help spot small issues before they turn into bigger ones. Choosing braces might feel like a big decision, but it could be one of the best moves you make for your long-term health—and your self-esteem. What Braces Actually Fix Braces do more than just straighten teeth—they help fix the way your teeth and jaw work together. They use small brackets and wires to slowly shift your teeth into better positions over time. Most people think of braces as a way to improve their smile, but they can also fix real problems with chewing, speaking, and even jaw pain. Some adults notice small issues that get worse over the years. Teeth might feel crowded, spaced out, or just “off” when biting down. These can be signs you may need braces, not just for looks, but for your overall dental health. Unlike veneers or teeth whitening, braces work below the surface. They don’t just change how things appear—they change how everything fits and functions. That’s what makes them different from quick cosmetic treatments. It’s not just about a better smile—it’s about a healthier one too. 7 Signs You May Need Braces as an Adult Not sure if braces are right for you? These common signs can help you figure out what to look for. 1. Crowded or Overlapping Teeth Teeth that sit too close together or on top of each other are harder to clean. If your floss keeps getting stuck or you’re skipping those tight spots, that could lead to cavities or gum problems down the road. Crowding is more than a cosmetic concern—it can affect your whole mouth. This is one of the most common signs adults notice when thinking about orthodontic care. Getting things straightened out can make brushing and flossing easier and lower your risk for future dental issues. 2. Gaps Between Your Teeth Some people like the way their gap looks, but others find it frustrating. Gaps can make it harder to chew, especially if food gets stuck or you feel like your bite isn’t even. Plus, open spaces between teeth can leave gums more exposed, which might make them feel sore or sensitive. If your gaps feel more like a problem than a quirk, braces could help bring your teeth closer together and improve how your bite works every day. 3. Frequent Jaw Pain or Clicking Pain in your jaw or a clicking sound when you chew shouldn’t be ignored. These can be signs of bite issues or something called TMJ disorder. Braces can help by lining up your teeth and jaw the right way, which takes pressure off the joints and muscles. If chewing is uncomfortable or your jaw feels sore at the end of the day, it’s worth getting checked out. Ongoing pain like this is more than a small annoyance—it might be one of the early signs you may need braces to get things back in balance. 4. Your Bite Feels “Off” When You Chew Biting into food shouldn’t feel uneven. If one side hits harder than the other or your teeth don’t meet the way they should, something may be out of alignment. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can cause uneven wear on your teeth and even affect how you speak. This type of issue doesn’t always hurt, but it can quietly cause problems over time. An off-balance bite is something many people overlook—until it starts to get in the way of everyday things. 5. You Had Braces Before—But Your Teeth Shifted Back Just because you had braces as a kid doesn’t mean your teeth will stay straight forever. If you didn’t wear your retainer or stopped too soon, your teeth might shift back over the years. That doesn’t mean you did anything wrong—it just means it’s more common than people think. If you’re seeing changes in your smile and feel like your teeth aren’t where they used to be, this could be one of the signs you may need braces again. The second round is often quicker and easier than the first. 6. You’re Hiding Your Smile in Photos Not wanting to smile in pictures can be a big sign that something’s bothering you. Maybe it’s crooked teeth, spacing, or just feeling unhappy with how things look. That self-conscious feeling doesn’t have to be permanent. Emotional reasons matter just as much as physical ones when it comes to dental care. If you’re avoiding pictures or covering your mouth when you laugh, braces could help you feel more confident and comfortable with your smile again. 7. Your Dentist Recommended Orthodontic Help When your general dentist notices something off and recommends braces, it’s worth paying attention. Dentists often spot things during regular cleanings—like crowding, shifting, or bite issues—that might not be causing pain yet, but could lead to bigger problems later. If your dentist says you should see an orthodontist, that’s one of the clearest signs you may need braces. It’s not just about looks—it’s about keeping your teeth and gums healthy in the long run. Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult Getting braces as an adult comes with real, long-term rewards. It’s not just about changing how your smile looks—it’s about feeling better in your day-to-day life and protecting your teeth for years to come. Here’s what you can expect: Boosted confidence

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How Long Does It Take for Braces to Straighten Teeth?

Braces / Presmult Dev

Some people wear braces for just a year, while others need them for nearly three. What makes the difference? The truth is, straightening teeth doesn’t work the same for everyone. Your age, how your teeth are positioned, and the type of braces you get all make a difference. Some see small shifts in the first month, while others take longer to notice changes. That’s why it helps to have the right team on your side. At Zaidi Orthodontics, patients get personalized care and clear answers about what to expect from day one. Instead of guessing or feeling stuck comparing timelines with others, it’s better to focus on what affects your progress. Understanding the process—and how to stay on track—can make your treatment feel a lot less stressful and a lot more doable. Factors That Affect How Long Braces Take to Work Some people finish treatment in a year, while others wear braces for much longer—and it’s not random. Several key things play a role in how long the process takes. Your age, the condition of your teeth, the type of braces you’re wearing, and how closely you follow your treatment plan all matter. At Zaidi Orthodontics, these details are looked at from the start so you can have a clear idea of what your timeline might look like. 1. Age of the Patient Teens often get quicker results because their jaws and bones are still growing, which helps teeth shift faster. Adults can still get great results—they might just need a little more time since everything has stopped growing. 2. Type and Severity of the Issue Simple spacing or crowding usually takes less time. But if you’re dealing with bigger problems like an overbite or crossbite, it could take longer to fix. The more movement your teeth need, the longer it can take. 3. Type of Braces Used Metal braces tend to move teeth steadily and may work faster in complex cases. Ceramic braces and lingual ones (which go behind the teeth) might take a bit longer. Some newer options promise faster results, but it all still depends on your specific case. 4. Patient Compliance Following your orthodontist’s instructions makes a big difference. Brushing well, skipping hard foods, wearing rubber bands if needed, and showing up for appointments can all help speed things up. Skipping these? That usually means more time in braces. Average Timeframes by Treatment Type The type of braces you get can affect how long it takes to see results. Some are quicker, others need more time—but each option works in its own way depending on what your teeth need. Here’s a quick look at the average treatment time for each type of braces: Traditional Metal Braces Most people wear them for 18 to 24 months. They’re strong, work for all kinds of alignment problems, and often move teeth a bit faster in more complex cases. Ceramic or Clear Braces These usually take about the same amount of time as metal braces but may go a little slower since the brackets are more delicate. People choose them mostly for appearance since they blend in with the teeth. Lingual Braces Placed behind the teeth, these are less visible but can take a bit longer to adjust. They’re often used for mild to moderate cases and are a good choice for those who want a hidden option. When You Might See Early Changes A common question people ask is, “When will I notice a difference?” The good news is that most people start to see small changes within the first 4 to 6 weeks after getting braces. It might be slight spacing, shifting, or some teeth looking a little straighter. These early changes can feel exciting—and they are a sign that your braces are doing their job. Still, it’s important to know that this is just the beginning of the process. The first few months are often about getting your teeth into a better starting position before bigger changes happen later. Even if progress seems slow, it’s still happening. Teeth move in small steps to avoid damage and make sure everything lines up properly. So if you’re not seeing a dramatic difference right away, that’s normal. Just stay consistent, and you’ll keep moving in the right direction. Tips to Stay on Track With Your Braces Wondering how long it takes for braces to straighten teeth is normal—but sticking to a few simple habits can help you get to the finish line faster. At Zaidi Orthodontics, patients get clear steps to follow so they don’t fall behind during treatment. Stick to Your Appointment Schedule Regular checkups aren’t just for tightening wires—they help your orthodontist track progress and make needed changes. Skipping visits, even just one, can slow things down more than you think. Follow Food Guidelines Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can break brackets or bend wires. If something gets damaged, it often means pausing progress until repairs are made. Staying careful with food choices helps keep things moving on time. Use Appliances as Directed Things like rubber bands, expanders, or other tools are part of your plan for a reason. Wearing them just part-time doesn’t give the same results. If your orthodontist says to wear them full-time, do it—it can make a big difference in how long your treatment takes. What Happens After Your Braces Come Off Getting your braces removed feels like a big win—and it is—but there’s still a bit of care needed to keep your teeth in place. Right after treatment, your teeth can slowly try to shift back to where they started. That’s why wearing a retainer is so important, especially in the first year. Your orthodontist will let you know how often to wear it, but sticking to the plan helps your results last. Some people also need a few follow-up visits after the braces come off. These quick check-ins help make sure everything is staying on track and that your bite is holding up well without the brackets. If something seems off,

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Metal Braces vs. Invisalign: Which Is the Better Choice for You?

Braces / Presmult Dev

Ever wondered which is better for straightening your teeth: metal braces or Invisalign? Choosing the right treatment isn’t just about appearances—it’s about finding what fits your needs and lifestyle. For years, metal braces have been the go-to for fixing crooked teeth and complex bite issues. But Invisalign has changed the game with its nearly invisible, removable aligners, making it a popular choice for those who want a more discreet option. Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on more than just looks. Factors like comfort, effectiveness, maintenance, and cost all play a role in the decision. This article breaks everything down for you—no fluff, no jargon—just the key facts you need. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which option is right for you and why. So, are you ready to find out which one suits you best? What Are Metal Braces? Metal braces are one of the most common ways to straighten teeth and fix alignment issues. They’re made of small metal brackets that are glued to your teeth and connected by wires. These wires are gradually tightened over time to move your teeth into the right position. Sometimes, elastic bands are added to adjust your bite or help with specific tooth movements. While they might not be the most subtle option, metal braces are incredibly effective. They can handle even the toughest cases, like severe misalignment or bite problems, making them a reliable choice for many people. Over the course of treatment, usually lasting 18-24 months, the braces work steadily to give you a straight, confident smile. What Is Invisalign? Invisalign offers a more modern approach to straightening teeth. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners made from medical-grade materials. These aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly. Every few weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners that gently push your teeth closer to their ideal position. One of the biggest perks of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable, making it easier to eat, brush, and floss. Plus, they’re nearly invisible, which is a big draw for people who want a discreet treatment option. Most Invisalign treatments take about 6-18 months, depending on how much your teeth need to move. Key Comparisons Between Metal Braces and Invisalign When deciding between metal braces vs Invisalign, understanding their differences can help you choose what’s best for your smile and lifestyle. Appearance and Aesthetics Metal braces are easy to spot because they have visible brackets and wires attached to your teeth. For those who prefer a less noticeable option, ceramic braces offer a more subtle appearance by blending with the color of your teeth. However, they’re still more noticeable than clear aligners. Invisalign, on the other hand, uses nearly invisible aligners. This makes it a popular choice for teens and adults who want their treatment to be as discreet as possible. If you’re self-conscious about your smile during orthodontic treatment, Invisalign is often the more appealing option. Treatment Effectiveness Metal braces shine when it comes to handling all kinds of orthodontic problems. Whether you have severe misalignment, large gaps, or complex bite issues, braces can get the job done. Invisalign is effective for mild to moderate cases, such as small gaps or slightly crooked teeth. However, it may not be the best option for severe alignment issues because aligners rely on gentler forces to move teeth. Comfort Braces can cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments. The brackets and wires might also irritate your cheeks and gums. Over time, most people get used to it, but it’s something to consider. Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic, so they’re less likely to irritate your mouth. While there may still be some pressure as your teeth shift, most people find them more comfortable overall. Maintenance and Cleaning With braces, cleaning requires extra effort. You need to carefully brush and floss around the brackets and wires to avoid plaque buildup. Tools like interdental brushes or floss threaders can help, but it still takes more time. Invisalign makes oral hygiene much simpler. Since the aligners are removable, you can take them out to brush and floss like you normally would. Just be sure to clean your aligners daily to keep them clear and free of bacteria. Food and Lifestyle Restrictions Braces come with some food limitations. Sticky or hard foods, like caramel or popcorn, can damage the wires or brackets. This means you’ll need to make adjustments to your diet during treatment. Invisalign has no such restrictions. You can eat whatever you like because you’ll remove the aligners before meals. Just remember to brush your teeth before putting them back in to avoid trapping food particles. Treatment Duration The length of treatment depends on your specific needs. With braces, it usually takes 18-24 months to complete, but it could be shorter or longer based on your case. Invisalign tends to be quicker for mild alignment issues, with treatment typically lasting 6-18 months. For more complex cases, the timeline can extend, similar to braces. Cost Braces are generally the more affordable option, especially traditional metal ones. Ceramic braces and lingual braces (worn on the inside of the teeth) can cost more. Invisalign is often more expensive due to the advanced technology and materials used to create custom aligners. However, the added convenience and aesthetic appeal make it worth considering for many patients. Advantages of Each Option Choosing between metal braces vs Invisalign depends on what you value most in a treatment. Both options have unique advantages that cater to different needs, whether it’s flexibility, appearance, or effectiveness. Advantages of Metal Braces Metal braces are a tried-and-true solution for all types of dental issues, including severe misalignment and bite problems. They work consistently to shift your teeth into place, making them suitable for even the most complex cases. Another benefit is variety. While traditional metal braces are the most common, ceramic braces are available for those who want a less noticeable option.

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Don’t let braces ruin your Halloween

Braces / ravi kumar

Halloween is a time to enjoy delicious candies you might avoid the rest of the year. Youngsters who get to dress up and ask for sweet treats out trick-or-treating cherish this holiday. If you have braces on, Dr. Sheeba Zaidi would like you still to have fun and celebrate Halloween this year! It’s easy to get carried away on Halloween by eating too much candy at once. Most parents try to prevent the all-too-common sugar high their kids experience on Halloween night. While there are certain candies that should be avoided, not all candy will cause problems for kids with braces. After trick-or-treating, you could trade unsafe candies with siblings and/or friends so they don’t miss out on the sugar buzz. Dr. Sheeba Zaidi and our team have come up with a list of teeth-friendly treats that should keep you from worrying about breaking your braces. We also came up with a list of candies to avoid, so as to save you a trip to our Wallingford, CT office. Remember to be extra careful when you indulge this Halloween! Braces-Friendly Sweets Solid chocolate: Milk, white, or dark Nougat-filled candy bars: Three Musketeers Powdery candy: Sweet Tarts, Pixie Stix Mint-flavored candy Malted milk balls Soft cookies Peanut butter crackers Avoid These Treats Sticky candy: Starbursts, toffee, Tootsie Rolls Hard candy: Suckers, Jolly Ranchers Taffy Caramels Fruit chews Gum Caramel apples Skittles M&Ms When in doubt, ask Dr. Sheeba Zaidi if a particular candy is safe to eat when you have braces. We hope you enjoy your Halloween sweets, and look forward to seeing you at your next appointment! Happy Halloween!

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Top Things to do Before You Get Braces

Braces / ravi kumar

So you’re about to get braces. Congratulations! You are taking a very smart step to improve the health of your teeth as well as get that killer smile in shape. But, as with anything that is good for you, there are a few things you will have to avoid while you “do your time.” Some foods don’t do so great with braces. The foods listed below should be avoided while you are wearing your braces because they can pop the brackets and bend the wires. In other words, these foods can really ruin your day, and send you back to Zaidi Orthodontics to get your braces repaired. So before you hit the chair, hit the grocery and candy store – one last time – for: Beef jerky Raw carrots Taffy Pizza crust Bagels and other crusty bread Popcorn Hard candy Nuts and seeds Dr. Sheeba Zaidi and our staff will give you more information about eating with braces. Some foods, such as apples, are okay as long as you cut them in pieces first. Others, like pudding and pasta, are fine just as they are. But then there is “the list”: the foods that are a big no-no and should be avoided. It won’t be forever, so hang in there. Your braces time will pass before you know it and you can resume more normal eating. But before the braces go on, enjoy these tasty treats. Go ahead and indulge!

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Braces-Friendly Recipe: Dinner

Braces / ravi kumar

Wearing braces during your treatment at Zaidi Orthodontics presents some unique challenges in the types of food you can safely eat. The wrong items can be difficult to remove from between your teeth and the appliance. Other foods may even break or loosen your braces. Dinner recipe ideas Lasagna is a great dinner choice because it provides you with several food groups in one easy dish. 1 ½ pounds ground hamburger 1 garlic clove 1 tsp. basil 1 pound diced tomatoes — canned is fine 12 oz. tomato paste 1 package of dry spaghetti sauce mix for seasoning 10 oz. box dry lasagna 3 cups ricotta or cottage cheese or 1 ½ cups each mixed ½-cup Parmesan cheese 2 eggs 1 pound sliced or shredded Mozzarella cheese Brown and drain your hamburger meat. Dice the garlic and simmer the hamburger, garlic, basil, diced tomatoes, tomato paste and powdered sauce mix for ½ hour. Cook the lasagna noodles as directed on the package and drain. Beat the eggs and combine them with your ricotta or cottage cheese. Layer ½ of the noodles in a 13 x 9 pan. Spread ½ of your cottage cheese mix on top of the noodles, then layer ½ of the mozzarella on top. Finish this layer with ½ of your hamburger mix. Repeat the layering with the other half of your ingredients. Bake at 350 F for 30 minutes. Meats You can enjoy ribs and chicken wings as long as you cut the meat from the bone before you eat. The same rule applies to turkey legs; do not gnaw on bones, because this can damage your braces. Vegetables and fruits You still need to include fruits and vegetables in your daily meals. Skip corn on the bob, whole apples, and raw carrots. Broccoli is soft but particles can become stuck in your braces, so be sure to brush and floss after your meal. Desserts Avoid caramel, taffy, and hard candies for dessert. Pudding and ice cream are fine, but low-sugar versions are best. Remember that your mouth will be sore after adjustments with Dr. Sheeba Zaidi. Stick to softer foods until the sensitivity is reduced. Please do not hesitate to ask our team for recipe and meal ideas. We will be happy to take the time to explain which foods items are the best choices and why. If you have any questions about these recipes, or if you have any questions about eating with braces, please give us a call at our Wallingford, CT office!

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How do braces move my teeth?

Braces / ravi kumar

Great question! Tooth movement is your body’s natural response to light pressure applied by braces over a period of time (usually two years). Braces work by using brackets that are glued onto your teeth; these brackets have small slots, and that is where Dr. Sheeba Zaidi and our team insert orthodontic wires. These wires are held in place by small elastic ties that fit around the brackets. As time passes during your treatment, these wires apply pressure on your teeth, which sets in motion the movement of your teeth into their desired positions. Each of your teeth has a different size and shape to them, as do the brackets. Each bracket is custom-made for the particular tooth on which it’s supposed to fit. Not long ago, orthodontists had stainless steel wires and that was about it. Today, however, we have a number of different high-tech wires at our disposal to move your teeth faster and more comfortably. When you first get your braces on, the first wire or two will typically be very flexible, but still strong enough to apply a constant force on your teeth. As your teeth straighten out over time, however, Dr. Sheeba Zaidi will use progressively thicker and firmer wires to help move your teeth in place for an ideal bite. Every time you visit our office for an adjustment, we will swap out the wires in order to keep putting pressure on your teeth, which is why it’s so important for you to keep your adjustment visits during your treatment. Most adjustment appointments are scheduled four to eight weeks apart to give your teeth time to move. As for rubber bands and elastics, most of our patients will need to wear elastics or rubber bands at some point during their treatments. These elastics typically go from one or more of the upper braces to one or more of the lower braces, and pull on your teeth to move them in the direction they need to move in order to achieve an optimal bite. If you have any questions about wires, brackets, or elastics, or have any general questions about your treatment, please give us a call at our Wallingford, CT office.

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Adults and Braces

Braces / ravi kumar

Nowadays, many adults are taking advantage of getting straighter teeth with braces. Dr. Sheeba Zaidi and our team love to help patients create the dazzling, confident smile they’ve always wanted. Our adult patients usually fall into two categories: some had braces in the past but didn’t wear their retainers, while others are brand-new to wearing braces. Either way, both groups want the same thing: straighter teeth and a beautiful smile! You will have several options for getting braces, depending on your financial situation and how quickly you would like your treatment to finish. Traditional metal braces are a less-expensive option and can help people who have severely crooked teeth. But many adults may not prefer this option because they dislike the appearance of metal brackets. If you’re concerned about how you’ll look, we offer clear ceramic braces that aren’t as visible. These are more expensive than metal braces, and patients need to be careful with colored drinks that can stain them, such as coffee or red wine. Another popular option is a clear aligner treatment called Invisalign®. This type is practically invisible; it uses a series of aligners that are customized to fit your teeth. The process of straightening your teeth can last anywhere from three to 18 months. For people who have extreme bite problems or crowded teeth, a different method may work better. Don’t hesitate to call our Wallingford, CT office today to set up a consultation. Dr. Sheeba Zaidi will help you choose the best option so you can be on your way to a straighter, more confident smile!

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Five Braces-Friendly Dinner Recipes

Braces / ravi kumar

Did you know that more than four million children throughout the US and Canada have braces? At Zaidi Orthodontics, Dr. Sheeba Zaidi and our staff know that kids can be picky and meticulous eaters. If cooking for children without braces is difficult, preparing meals for children with braces is especially daunting. “Comfort food takes on a whole new meaning when cooking for children with braces,” says Pamela Waterman, author of The Braces Cookbook: Recipes You and Your Orthodontist Will Love. “Whether you have new brackets, elastics, headgear, or more, there are great foods you can eat; it just takes some thought.” These five braces-friendly dinner recipes will be sure to keep your kids smiling! Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Pasta is soft, so it’s easy for children with braces to eat. The warm, gooey cheese melts in the mouth and doesn’t get stuck in the braces like hard or sticky foods. Chances are good that even the pickiest eater has a soft spot for this homespun classic. The key to braces-friendly cooking is to replace hard, crunchy foods with softer substitutes. In other words, burritos are a better option than tacos, and lasagna is a better choice than pizza. At the same time, if you have the culinary skills to whip up a pizza with a soft crust, you’re going to win the Best Mom (or Dad) of the Year award. Your child may not like fruits and vegetables. In fact, he or she may even try to convince you that with new braces, fruits and vegetables are off limits. Nice try, kids. While your child is wearing braces, prepare meals with cooked vegetables instead of raw vegetables. A vegetable stir-fry is a healthy and soft dinner choice for kids with braces. Whether it’s beef or chicken, meat is a good source of protein. However, meat, even when it’s carefully taken off the bone (kids with braces should never eat meat from a bone), can easily get caught in braces. Sloppy Joes are a good alternative. The beef is softened by the addition of the sauce and less likely to get strung in the wires and brackets of the braces. Serve the Sloppy Joes with a side of mashed potatoes. Ask any child and he or she will tell you that the best part of dinner is dessert. While hard candy, licorice, taffy, caramel, popcorn, and all other chewy candies should be avoided, ice cream and cake are braces-friendly treats that keep kids smiling. Need more braces-friendly food ideas? Feel free to ask any member of our team.

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