Braces Portland OR

What Are Braces & How Do They Work?

Braces use small brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by an archwire. That wire applies gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment and correct bite issues. Treatment typically spans several months to two years, and braces remain one of the most reliable and effective orthodontic treatments for patients of all ages.

Dr. Matt Orthodontics in Beaverton, serving Portland, OR, offers two main types of braces for local families. Metal braces remain the most popular choice, featuring sleek, modern brackets that are smaller and more comfortable than older designs. For those wanting a subtler look, LightForce clear braces provide a nearly invisible option with fully customized 3D-printed brackets made specifically for your teeth.

Today's braces have come a long way from what you might remember. Brackets are lighter and less bulky now. Archwires use advanced materials that respond to your body heat, making adjustments gentler and treatment more efficient. The science behind it is straightforward: controlled pressure stimulates bone remodeling around each tooth root, allowing teeth to move safely into new positions. From age 7 to 70, braces can help you get the smile you've always wanted.

Metal Braces vs. LightForce Clear Braces

Dr. Matt Orthodontics offers two types of braces at our Beaverton office: metal braces and LightForce clear braces. Here's how they compare:

Benefits of Getting Braces in Portland, OR

Braces from Dr. Matt Orthodontics do more than straighten teeth. The main benefits include correcting crowding, gaps, and bite problems, improving oral health by making teeth easier to clean, and boosting confidence with a straighter smile. Braces also work for patients of all ages, from children to adults.

Corrects Common Orthodontic Issues

• Crowding and overlapping teeth
• Gaps and spacing problems
• Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
• Misaligned jaws affecting your bite

Improves Your Oral Health

Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss properly. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food particles and plaque hide in hard-to-reach spots, and that buildup leads to real problems over time. Proper alignment reduces your risk of cavities, gum disease, and uneven wear on your enamel. Many patients tell us they notice a difference in their dental checkups within the first year of treatment.

Boosts Your Confidence

Ever catch yourself holding back a smile in photos? That changes once your teeth start lining up. You'll smile more freely during conversations, at work, and in pictures you actually want to post. That kind of confidence carries into everything you do.

Options for Every Age

Dr. Matt, Your Braces Guy, treats children, teens, and adults throughout the Portland and Beaverton area. Kids can start with Phase 1 treatment as early as age 7. Teens benefit from treatment during their growth years. And adults? There's no age limit on getting a smile you love.

Discreet Treatment with LightForce Clear Braces

Want the power of braces without the metal look? LightForce clear braces blend in with your natural teeth while delivering precise, customized results. Each bracket is 3D-printed to fit your unique tooth anatomy, so the fit is exact and the profile stays low.

The Braces Treatment Process at Dr. Matt Orthodontics

Getting braces at Dr. Matt Orthodontics in Beaverton, serving Portland, OR, doesn't have to feel overwhelming. The treatment process involves four steps: a free consultation with digital scans, bracket placement, regular adjustment visits every 4 to 8 weeks, and braces removal with retainer fitting. Here's what each step looks like.

Step 1: Your Free Consultation

Your first visit is a complimentary exam at our Beaverton office, conveniently located for Portland-area families. Dr. Matt, a board-certified orthodontist, uses digital scans to create a 3D model of your teeth, so no goopy impressions are needed.

You'll also receive digital X-rays and photos. From there, Dr. Matt reviews everything with you and creates a customized treatment plan built around your specific needs and goals.

Step 2: Bracket Placement

This appointment typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Matt carefully positions each bracket for optimal results, and you'll leave with your braces in place along with detailed instructions for care. Most patients say the process is easier than they expected.

Step 3: Regular Adjustment Visits

Every 4 to 8 weeks, a quick visit to our Beaverton office keeps your treatment on track. These appointments allow Dr. Matt to monitor your progress and fine-tune the pressure on your teeth. Most adjustments take just 15 to 20 minutes, so they're easy to fit into a lunch break or after-school schedule.

Step 4: Braces Removal & Retainer Fitting

When your teeth reach their final positions, it's time to celebrate! We remove your braces and fit you with a custom retainer. Wearing your retainer as directed keeps your smile looking great for years to come.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Most patients wear braces for 12 to 24 months. Your timeline depends on the complexity of your case. Dr. Matt provides a realistic estimate during your free consultation.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces?

Braces work for almost everyone. Portland-area patients of all ages are great candidates. Here's how to know if they're right for you or your child.

Children (Age 7+)

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, Dr. Matt can spot early issues with jaw development, tooth spacing, and incoming permanent teeth. Some children benefit from Phase 1 treatment, while others simply need monitoring until they're ready for full braces.

Teens

The teenage years are the most common time for braces. Teens dealing with crowding, gaps, or bite problems are ideal candidates. Treatment during these growth years often moves faster because bones are still developing.

Adults

It's never too late for a straighter smile. Whether you missed out on braces as a teen or your teeth have shifted over time, braces deliver excellent results for adults too. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today is an adult.

Complex Cases

Patients with significant bite issues or severe crowding often benefit more from braces than clear aligners. Braces give Dr. Matt precise control over tooth movement, making them the go-to choice for complex corrections.

Still Deciding Between Braces and Aligners?

Dr. Matt can walk you through the options at a free consultation and help you pick what fits. Your Braces Guy evaluates your specific needs and recommends the treatment path that will give you the best results.

Why Portland Families Choose Dr. Matt Orthodontics

Choosing an orthodontist is a big decision. Here's why families throughout the Portland, OR area trust Dr. Matt with their smiles.

Board-Certified Expertise

Dr. Matthew Tsai is a board-certified orthodontist with specialized training that goes beyond dental school. His advanced education and dedication to lifelong learning mean you're getting care backed by the latest research and techniques. That level of training matters when it comes to planning complex tooth movements and managing bite corrections.

Where Innovation Meets Compassion

Our Beaverton office uses LightForce 3D-printed custom brackets, one of the most advanced braces systems on the market. Each bracket is designed specifically for your tooth's unique shape and the exact movement needed. Digital scans replace messy impressions, and digital X-rays reduce radiation exposure.

Customized Smiles With Detailed Care

This isn't a one-size-fits-all practice. Dr. Matt creates treatment plans for each patient's unique anatomy, lifestyle, and goals. You're not just another case number here.

Boutique Orthodontic Care

We keep our practice small on purpose. That means Dr. Matt is your orthodontist at every single visit, not someone you've never met before. Our welcoming, family-friendly Beaverton office is built around real relationships. You'll see the same familiar faces each time you walk through the door, and our team knows your name, your treatment plan, and your preferences.

Budget-Friendly Smiles

Orthodontic care should fit your budget. We offer flexible payment plans with minimal down payments and interest-free options. Our team also coordinates with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits. No hidden fees, no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions About Braces in Portland

How much do braces cost in Portland, OR?

During your free consultation at Dr. Matt Orthodontics in Beaverton, you'll receive a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees. We offer interest-free payment plans and work with most major insurance providers, including Delta Dental, MODA, BlueCross BlueShield, MetLife, Cigna, and Aetna.

How long do braces take?

Braces typically take 12 to 24 months to complete treatment. Simpler cases may finish sooner, while complex bite corrections may take longer. Dr. Matt provides a realistic timeline during your initial consultation so you know what to expect from the start.

Do braces hurt?

Braces cause mild, temporary soreness but are not considered painful. You may notice some tenderness for a few days after getting your braces placed and after adjustment appointments. This discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter relief, and most patients find that any soreness fades quickly.

Can adults get braces?

Absolutely. More adults are straightening their teeth than ever, and braces work just as effectively for adults as they do for teens. Many adults at our Beaverton office choose LightForce clear braces for a more discreet appearance while still getting the precise corrections they need.

What is the difference between metal braces and clear braces?

Metal braces use stainless steel brackets and are highly durable for all types of corrections. LightForce clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in with your natural teeth. Both deliver excellent results. Dr. Matt can help you decide which option best fits your lifestyle and treatment goals during a free consultation.