If you’re thinking about getting braces, it’s normal to have questions. Many patients — both teens and adults — want to understand how braces work, how long treatment takes, and what daily life will look like.

At Leber Orthodontics, we’ve helped Tucson families straighten their smiles for over 50 years, and we hear many of the same great questions during consultations. Here are some of the most common questions about braces and what you can expect during treatment.

How Do Braces Work?

Braces use brackets and wires to gently guide teeth into proper alignment over time. The orthodontist periodically adjusts the wires to apply controlled pressure, gradually moving teeth into their ideal positions.

This process helps correct issues such as:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Bite problems like overbites or underbites
• Jaw alignment concerns

Because braces remain attached to the teeth throughout treatment, they work consistently to move your smile in the right direction.

How Long Do Braces Take? ⏱️

Treatment time varies depending on each patient’s needs, but most braces patients complete treatment in about 12–24 months.

Factors that influence treatment length include:

• The severity of tooth alignment issues
• Bite correction needs
• Age and jaw development
• How well braces care instructions are followed

During your consultation, the orthodontist will estimate your expected treatment timeline.

Do Braces Hurt?

It’s normal to feel some pressure or soreness when braces are first placed or after adjustments. This usually fades within a few days as your teeth adapt.

Modern braces are designed to be smaller, smoother, and more comfortable than older orthodontic appliances, helping minimize irritation during treatment.

What Foods Should I Avoid With Braces? 🍽️

To protect your braces and keep treatment on track, it’s best to avoid very sticky, crunchy, or hard foods that could damage brackets or wires.

Examples include:

• Sticky candies
• Hard nuts or popcorn kernels
• Very crunchy snacks
• Chewing ice

Your orthodontist will provide a full list of braces-friendly foods and tips to make eating with braces easier.

How Do I Take Care of My Braces? 🪥

Keeping your teeth clean during braces treatment is especially important. Patients should:

• Brush carefully around brackets and wires
• Floss daily using orthodontic flossing tools
• Maintain regular dental checkups

Good oral hygiene helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps your smile healthy throughout treatment.

Can Adults Get Braces?

Absolutely! Many adults in Tucson choose braces to improve their smile and oral health. Teeth can move at any age, making orthodontic treatment a great option for both teens and adults.

Whether treatment is for cosmetic reasons or bite correction, braces remain one of the most reliable orthodontic solutions available.

Why Tucson Families Trust Leber Orthodontics 🏜️

Leber Orthodontics has proudly served the Tucson community since 1975, offering:

• Experienced, board-certified orthodontists
• Friendly staff that truly cares
• Digital 3D scans (no messy impressions)
• Convenient locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Rita Ranch
• Personalized treatment plans for kids, teens, and adults
• Flexible financing options for braces treatment

Have More Questions About Braces?

If you’re considering braces in Tucson and want to learn more, we’re here to help. During your free consultation, our team will answer your questions, evaluate your smile, and explain your personalized treatment options.

👉 Schedule your free exam today and take the first step toward a confident, healthy smile with Leber Orthodontics.

For half a century, Leber Orthodontics has been dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care to the Tucson community. Founded in 1975 by Dr. Larry Leber, the practice has remained a trusted name in braces and Invisalign treatment, helping generations of families achieve healthier, more confident smiles.

A Legacy of Excellence in Orthodontics

Dr. Larry Leber’s vision for outstanding orthodontic care laid the foundation for what Leber Ortho is today. At the same time, Dr. Michael Don ran his own successful orthodontic practice alongside his daughter, Lindsay, who later merged with Leber Ortho in 2020. This brought together decades of expertise and a shared commitment to patient-centered care. Today, the tradition continues under the expert leadership of Dr. Eric Leber, Dr. Lindsay Don, and Dr. Leah Stetzel.

From traditional braces to cutting-edge Invisalign aligners, Leber Ortho has continually embraced advancements in orthodontic technology to offer the best solutions for their patients. Their commitment to innovation and personalized treatment has made them a top choice for orthodontic care in Tucson.

Serving Tucson Families for Generations

For 50 years, Leber Ortho has been more than just a practice—it has been a part of the Tucson community. Many parents who once had their braces done here now bring their children for the same exceptional care. This generational trust speaks to the lasting impact and quality of service provided by the team.

Whether it’s helping a teenager straighten their smile with braces or fitting an adult with discreet Invisalign, Leber Ortho remains committed to making orthodontic care accessible and comfortable for all ages.

Looking Forward to the Future

As Leber Ortho celebrates this incredible milestone, the team looks ahead to continuing their mission of transforming smiles and improving oral health for years to come. With a focus on advanced techniques, compassionate care, and a dedication to their patients, Leber Ortho is excited to embark on the next 50 years of orthodontic excellence.

Thank you, Tucson, for trusting us with your smiles for the past 50 years! If you’re ready to start your own smile transformation, contact Leber Ortho today to learn more about our braces and Invisalign options.

Schedule a free consultation and be a part of our legacy of beautiful smiles!