Braces for Santa Rosa Teens and Adults

Fountaingrove families with teenagers and young adults sometimes find that Invisalign alone isn't appropriate for complex bite problems, and traditional braces become the treatment of choice. Braces (fixed orthodontic appliances) use brackets bonded to teeth and connected by a wire that guides teeth into proper position. While Dr. Bonin handles Invisalign cases himself, he understands that some malocclusions require braces for optimal results, and he refers complex orthodontic cases to a specialist orthodontist. The fifteen-minute drive from Fountaingrove to our Windsor office is manageable if you're considering braces, and Dr. Bonin can provide evaluation and referral.

From Fountaingrove, initial consultation includes assessment of your bite, jaw relationship, and specific alignment concerns. Dr. Bonin will discuss whether braces or Invisalign is most appropriate, and if braces are recommended, he'll refer you to his trusted orthodontist colleague.

Braces are indicated for severe crowding, significant bite discrepancies (overbite, underbite, crossbite), or complex tooth movements that would require excessive aligner duration with Invisalign. Traditional braces use small brackets adhered to each tooth, threaded by an archwire that applies continuous gentle force. Appointments for adjustment typically occur every four to six weeks, during which the wire is replaced or reactivated to continue tooth movement.

Dr. Bonin's role is to assess whether braces are appropriate and to provide referral to an experienced orthodontist. Upon completion of braces, Dr. Bonin may see the patient for routine care and retention planning (retainers to prevent relapse). Braces typically require 18 to 30 months of active treatment, depending on complexity. For Fountaingrove families seeking optimal alignment, particularly in teenagers, braces may deliver better results than Invisalign in certain cases.

Fountaingrove parents investing in their teenager's orthodontic care understand that proper bite and alignment have implications for long-term dental health, jaw function, and confidence. While Invisalign is popular and convenient, some parents recognize that braces offer superior control in complex cases and are willing to accept the aesthetic trade-off during the treatment period. Dr. Bonin's willingness to recommend braces when appropriate, rather than pushing Invisalign, reflects his patient-centered approach and builds trust with families making these decisions.