When you’ve got questions about how to customize your treatment, Humphrey Orthodontics has answers. You might wonder about braces. You might feel unsure whether a retainer is enough for your goals. How can you balance the latest technology, financial considerations, and treatment length? Dr. Humphrey and our team know that your path to a healthier smile works best when it fits your situation. You’ll discover flexible choices at both our Wentzville and St. Peters offices. You can find what feels right for you and your family, from retainers to limited or full treatment.
Your Personalized Smile Approach
You may have heard about “one-size-fits-all” treatments. That can work for some folks, but not everyone has the same goals. Some people want to fix a small gap or a slightly crooked tooth. Others feel ready for a major transformation that boosts confidence. At Humphrey Orthodontics, we focus on making sure your plan fits your life.
Dr. Humphrey takes the time to learn about your priorities. Maybe you want more flexibility in your day-to-day routine, or maybe you’re looking for a faster way to see results. It’s all about matching the right tool to your smile. That might be a short-term option, like a retainer, or a longer path, like full braces.
Orthodontics for All Ages
Wentzville and St. Peters teenagers aren’t the only ones who benefit from orthodontic treatment. People of all ages can move toward a straighter smile. We see children who are still getting their adult teeth. We see teens who crave a boost of confidence. We also see adults who have decided the time is right to fix a tooth alignment issue that’s bothered them for years.
You might think, “Is it too late for me?” The truth is that it’s never too late. Orthodontics can correct issues whether you’re in your teens, 20s, 30s, or beyond. Dr. Humphrey and our Humphrey Orthodontics team work with you to set a plan that honors your schedule, budget, and wishes.
Retainers: A Simple Solution
Sometimes, you only need a gentle adjustment. Retainers come in a few forms—removable or fixed. You can take removable retainers out when you eat or brush. You simply pop it back in afterward. For some patients, a retainer might be enough to keep teeth in line or even shift them slightly.
At your first appointment, Dr. Humphrey might recommend wearing a retainer if you already have good alignment and only need minor tweaks. Retainers also help keep your teeth in place after braces or aligners. This can help you avoid your teeth drifting back to old positions. While your case might call for more than a retainer, it’s nice to know there’s a low-key option for small adjustments.
Short-Term Treatment
You might need a short-term approach if you want to fix a small part of your smile. Maybe you have one crooked tooth that bothers you, or you see a small gap. Limited treatment focuses on one part of your bite or just your front teeth. It usually doesn’t tackle your entire mouth.
This type of approach might involve partial braces. In some cases, Invisalign aligners or other appliances can also do the trick. Because it’s a shorter process, the cost is often lower than full treatment.
Full Treatment: Metal & Clear Braces
Traditional braces remain popular because they’re time-tested and effective. If you want to correct a wide range of alignment issues—from crowding to serious overbites—braces can deliver results. At Humphrey Orthodontics, we offer:
Metal Braces
Metal braces are a classic option. They can handle tough cases and often work a little faster on major movements. Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable than in the past. Plus, your teenager can pick colored bands to show off their style.
Clear Braces
Clear braces function like metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored materials. This keeps them less noticeable, which is a plus if you prefer a more subtle look. You get the same correction power while blending in with your natural smile.
Whether you choose metal or clear, braces can tackle larger issues. You’ll see steady improvements, and our team will monitor you every step of the way.
Invisalign: A Removable Option
Clear aligners like Invisalign have become common for people in Wentzville and St. Peters who want to straighten their teeth more freely. Instead of brackets and wires, you wear clear plastic trays. You change these trays on a set schedule to gradually shift your teeth.
One of the biggest perks is that you can remove your aligners when you eat or brush. This makes it easier to keep your mouth clean, and you don’t have to worry about food restrictions. Invisalign can handle many problems, including mild spacing or more advanced crowding. However, it’s best if you wear your aligners for the recommended hours each day. Otherwise, you might slow your progress.
InBrace Lingual Braces: Hidden from View
If you want a truly discreet option but prefer the reliability of braces, lingual braces might be your top pick. Lingual braces fit on the inside (tongue side) of your teeth. This means that no one sees them when you smile. You get the power of traditional braces without the brackets showing on the front of your teeth.
Dr. Humphrey and our Humphrey Orthodontics team offer InBrace lingual braces. They’re especially helpful if you like the idea of braces but don’t want the visible hardware. Keep in mind that lingual braces can sometimes affect the way your tongue feels against your teeth at first. Most patients get used to them quickly, though.
Common Questions
Got questions about customizing your treatment at Humphrey Orthodontics in Wentzville or St. Peters? Dr. Humphrey has the info you need!
- Will my insurance cover orthodontic care?
Many dental insurance plans offer orthodontic coverage, though the amount varies. We’ll confirm your benefits and let you know your estimated costs.
- How long does treatment take?
It depends on what you need. Limited treatment might last a few months, while full braces or aligners might last over a year or more. Consistently wearing your appliances and keeping up with appointments helps things go faster.
- Do I need to change my diet if I choose braces?
If you have metal, clear, or lingual braces, you may want to stay away from super-hard or sticky foods. This helps you avoid broken brackets or wires. With Invisalign, you can remove your aligners to eat, so you can still enjoy your favorite meals.
- Is Invisalign as good as braces?
It’s a solid choice for many people, but not everyone. If your case is more complicated, braces might be a better fit. After looking at your bite and spacing, Dr. Humphrey can let you know your best option.
Get Started On Customized Treatment
Ready for your customized orthodontic experience? Go here to schedule your free exam. From kids who need early treatment to adults returning for a long-awaited tune-up, there’s no limit on who can benefit from a straighter smile. Dr. Humphrey looks forward to meeting you and creating a plan that fits like a glove. Humphrey Orthodontics is proud to serve families in Wentzville, St. Peters, and the surrounding communities.