What Is LightForce Orthodontics in Gorham, ME?

LightForce Orthodontics is a custom braces system that uses digital planning and 3D printing to create brackets for each patient. The braces still use brackets and wires to move teeth. The main difference is that the bracket design and placement are planned around your teeth and bite before treatment begins.

At Southern Maine Orthodontics, Dr. Christopher Murphy, and Dr. Lake Seymour help patients in Gorham, ME and surrounding communities compare treatment options based on their smile, bite, and goals. LightForce can be an option for patients who want fixed braces with treatment planned around their individual teeth and bite. 

What Makes LightForce Different From Standard Braces?

LightForce is different because its brackets are made for the individual patient instead of coming only from a standard set. A digital model of your teeth helps the orthodontist plan how the brackets should fit and where they should be placed.

Standard braces and LightForce braces still work in a similar way. Both use brackets and wires to apply gentle force and move teeth over time. The American Association of Orthodontists explains more about how braces work and how these parts guide tooth movement.

With LightForce, the orthodontist reviews the digital setup before the brackets are made. This lets the doctor plan the bracket positions around the goals for your teeth and bite.

What Happens Before LightForce Braces Are Placed?

Before LightForce braces are placed, a digital scan creates a 3D model of your teeth. Your orthodontist uses that model to review your alignment, bite, and treatment goals.

The digital setup helps show where the brackets should go and how the teeth are expected to move. Your orthodontist can review the plan and make changes before the brackets are produced.

Once the setup is approved, custom brackets and bonding trays are made for your case. The trays help place the brackets in the planned spots on your teeth.

After the brackets are bonded, a wire is added so tooth movement can begin. You will still need regular orthodontic visits. These visits let your orthodontist check how your teeth are responding and adjust treatment when needed.

What Is It Like to Wear LightForce Braces?

Wearing LightForce braces is much like wearing other fixed braces. The brackets stay attached to your teeth during treatment, so you do not remove them for meals, brushing, or sleep.

LightForce can use clear or white brackets for a less noticeable look, while metal brackets may be used on the back teeth. This can make the braces look more subtle than a full set of metal brackets.

You may feel pressure or mild soreness after the braces are placed or adjusted. This often improves as your mouth gets used to the change. If a bracket or wire breaks or keeps rubbing your mouth, contact the orthodontic office for help.

Because the braces stay on your teeth, you do not have to remember to put trays back in after meals. You do, however, need to keep the brackets and wires clean each day.

What Should You Know About Cleaning and Eating With LightForce?

Good brushing and flossing are important with LightForce braces. Food and plaque can collect around brackets and wires, so you need to clean those areas carefully.

A floss threader, small interdental brush, or another orthodontic cleaning tool may make it easier to clean between your teeth and around the braces. Your orthodontic team can show you which tools may help.

Food choices also matter. Hard, sticky, or very chewy foods can damage brackets or wires. Cutting firm foods into small pieces and avoiding chewing ice can lower the chance of a broken bracket or wire.

These care steps are common with fixed braces. Good daily cleaning also helps protect your teeth and gums while your smile is changing.

How Can You Find Out If LightForce Is Right for You?

An orthodontic exam is the best way to find out if LightForce fits your needs. Your bite, tooth positions, treatment goals, and the type of movement needed all help guide the choice.

LightForce may be a good option for patients who want fixed braces that are customized to their teeth and bite. Other patients may be better suited to another type of braces or Invisalign clear aligners. The right choice depends on what needs to be corrected and how your orthodontist plans to treat it.

Schedule a consultation with Southern Maine Orthodontics in Gorham, ME to compare your options. Dr. Murphy or Dr. Seymour can examine your smile and bite, explain how LightForce could work for your case, and help you choose a treatment plan that fits your needs.