Braces & Aligners
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Traditional Metal
When most people think of braces, they associate them with the traditional metal brackets and archwires that are attached to the front of your teeth, slowly shifting them into alignment. Traditional metal brackets are still the most common and predictable solution for patients of all ages. The average time for our metal braces to complete treatment is 12-24 months depending on the patient’s needs
For any questions you may have regarding our traditional metal braces, contact Central Illinois Orthodontic Associates today at 309.692.2700.
3M™ Clarity™ Advanced Ceramic Brackets
3M™ Clarity™ Advanced Ceramic Brackets are individual pieces of ceramic technology that are aligned on the center of your teeth, just like traditional metal braces, but are made of ceramic and nearly invisible. This allows you to have the same look as traditional braces with the convenience and visual appeal that come with the 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners. Brackets enhance your comfort without compromising the strength of your teeth and affecting the straightening process. If you’re looking for the benefits of metal braces without the appearance of steel brackets, contact Central Illinois Orthodontic Associates to learn more about our ceramic braces options.
If you’re looking for the benefits of metal braces without the appearance of steel brackets, contact Central Illinois Orthodontic Associates at 309.692.2700 to learn more about our ceramic braces options.


3M™ Clarity™ Clear Aligners
Our 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners are made of a flexible, 5-layer material that is nearly invisible and the perfect, minimally invasive way to correct the spacing and alignment of your teeth. These transparent plastic aligners are crafted from a digital mold of your current bite and act in stages to align your teeth. For individuals of all ages, our 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners are the perfect solution for correcting underbites, overbites, spacing, crooked teeth, and more. Clear aligners are invisible, removable, and extremely comfortable, making them a great option for kids and adults.
Life With Braces
Whether you have chosen traditional metal braces or our 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners, life with braces is initially going to be slightly different than you’re used to. The inability to eat certain foods, soreness, and the feeling of loose teeth after treatment are a few of the most common experiences you will face once your braces are installed. Fortunately, any uncomfortable sensations are only temporary and should go away within the first week or so of the beginning of your braces treatment. One of the most important things to consider when it comes to having braces is eating foods that will not damage your brackets or wires. At Central Illinois Orthodontic Associates, our orthodontist recommends the following foods to enjoy and avoid:
Foods to Enjoy
There are several foods you can consume regularly including:
Cheese
Pudding
Pasta
Pancakes
Muffins
Rice
Chicken
Meatballs
Lunch Meats
Tuna
Salmon
Mashed Potatoes
Spinach
Beans
Applesauce
Bananas
Ice Cream
Jell-O
Foods to Avoid
Avoid chewy, crunchy, sticky, and hard foods including:
Popcorn
Chips
Ice
Chewing Gum
Licorice
Bagels
Nuts
Hard Candies
Apples
Carrots

Kids

Teens
