Types of Braces in Springfield, OR

Exploring your orthodontic treatment options can help you understand which approach may work best for your smile, bite and lifestyle. Our orthodontist and team provide personalized orthodontic care using treatment methods selected according to the type and complexity of tooth movement needed.

Dr. Matthew Epperson has practiced orthodontics since 2016 and has completed approximately 900 braces cases. He primarily uses traditional braces for comprehensive orthodontic treatment because they provide reliable control for moderate to complex tooth movement. Clear aligners may also be recommended for selected mild cases. Call 541-852-2552 today to schedule a consultation and learn which option is right for you!

Types of Orthodontic Treatment We Offer

Orthodontic treatment is not one-size-fits-all. The right appliance depends on how your teeth need to move, the condition of your bite, your age and growth, and how consistently you can follow treatment instructions. Dr. Epperson primarily recommends the following options:

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces use brackets and archwires to apply controlled pressure and gradually move the teeth into healthier positions. Our orthodontist uses a traditional twin-bracket system from GC Orthodontics.

Braces may be recommended for:

• Moderate to complex tooth movement

• Crowding or spacing

• Bite correction

• Teen orthodontic treatment

• Adult orthodontic treatment

• Cases that require more precise control over tooth movement

Traditional braces remain Dr. Epperson’s preferred approach for many comprehensive orthodontic cases because the brackets and wires remain in place throughout treatment and do not depend on the patient remembering to wear a removable appliance.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners use a series of removable trays to make planned tooth movements over time. They are less noticeable than traditional braces and can be removed for meals, brushing and flossing.

At Epperson Orthodontics, clear aligners are generally used for adults with mild orthodontic concerns, minor tooth movement or teeth that have shifted following previous orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontist uses uLab aligners and evaluates each patient carefully before recommending removable treatment.

Because clear aligners need to be worn approximately 20–22 hours each day, they require a high level of patient compliance. For moderate or complex tooth movement, traditional braces are generally the preferred option.

Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?

The best orthodontic treatment is not necessarily the least noticeable option. It is the one that gives your orthodontist the appropriate level of control for the tooth movement your case requires. When deciding between braces and clear aligners, we consider:

• The complexity of your tooth movement

• Whether bite correction is needed

• Your age and stage of growth

• How consistently you are likely to wear removable aligners

• Your oral hygiene habits

• Your treatment goals and lifestyle

Our orthodontist may recommend traditional braces when moderate or complex tooth movement is needed. In his experience, brackets and wires provide greater control and more predictable treatment in these cases. Clear aligners are typically reserved for simpler cases where limited movement is needed.

Benefits of Traditional Braces

Traditional braces continue to be a reliable choice for both teens and adults because they can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns and offer a predictable option for guiding the teeth and bite into their proper positions.

Benefits may include:

• Precise control over tooth movement

• Treatment of mild, moderate and complex orthodontic problems

• No need to remember to wear removable trays

• Ability to address crowding, spacing and bite concerns

• Treatment that can be adjusted throughout the process

• A dependable option for teens who may struggle with aligner compliance

What to Expect During Braces Treatment

Your orthodontic treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth, bite and jaw relationship. Our orthodontist will review your needs, discuss your treatment options and explain why a particular approach is recommended.

Digital Records and Treatment Planning

Our office uses digital technology to help make treatment planning more comfortable and precise. A Medit i700 intraoral scanner can capture a detailed digital model of your teeth without traditional impression material. Records and scans are completed in-house and used to help develop an individualized orthodontic treatment plan.

Braces Placement

Brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with an archwire. The wire applies gentle, controlled pressure that gradually guides your teeth toward their planned positions.

Some tenderness is normal during the first several days after braces are placed as your mouth adjusts. Most patients find that this initial discomfort improves significantly after approximately one week.

Regular Orthodontic Visits

Periodic appointments allow our orthodontist to monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. Depending on your treatment plan, wires, elastics or other orthodontic appliances may be used to help guide tooth and bite correction. Dr. Epperson personally provides clinical care rather than delegating clinical duties to an assistant, allowing patients to receive consistent one-on-one attention throughout treatment.

Retention

Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers help maintain your new tooth positions. Dr. Epperson personally makes retainers in-house and may recommend a clear Essix retainer or, in some cases, a Hawley retainer.

Living With Braces

Braces should not prevent most patients from participating in school, sports, music or other normal activities. There is usually an adjustment period during the first week after braces are placed, but many patients report that they notice their appliances much less once they become accustomed to them.

Our team provides guidance on brushing, flossing and caring for your braces so you can maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout treatment.

Patients can also continue participating in sports. If you play a contact sport, ask our team about the appropriate type of mouth guard to protect your teeth and braces.

Why Choose Epperson Orthodontics for Braces?

Successful orthodontic treatment depends on more than the appliance itself. Careful diagnosis, individualized treatment planning and consistent monitoring all influence how teeth move and how well the final result supports your bite.

Our orthodontist has practiced orthodontics since 2016 and has completed approximately 1,000 orthodontic cases, including approximately 900 braces cases. His treatment philosophy emphasizes selecting the appliance that provides the appropriate level of control for each patient rather than recommending the same option for everyone.

Epperson Orthodontics also offers a smaller, doctor-led treatment environment. Dr. Epperson personally sees patients throughout treatment and structures his schedule to provide more one-on-one time at appointments.

Our Springfield office serves patients from Eugene, Creswell, Coburg, Thurston and surrounding communities. If you are considering braces near you, schedule a consultation with our orthodontist to discuss your options.

Schedule a Braces Consultation

If you are considering braces in Springfield, OR, our orthodontist can evaluate your teeth and bite, explain your orthodontic treatment options and recommend the approach best suited to your needs. Call 541-852-2552 today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.