Orthodontic Care for Children, Teens, and Adults

If you are considering braces treatment for yourself or your child, Jennifer MB Schau, DDS offers orthodontic evaluations and traditional braces in Saginaw, MI. Braces are a fixed orthodontic treatment that use brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into better alignment over time.

At Jennifer MB Schau, DDS, patients from Saginaw, Zilwaukee, Kochville, Carrollton Township, Swan Creek Township, Shields, Thomas Township, and nearby communities can discuss whether braces are the right option for crowding, spacing, bite concerns, or jaw alignment issues.

Call 989-799-0675 or schedule a braces consultation.

Traditional Braces for Children, Teens, and Adults in Saginaw, MI

Traditional braces remain a dependable orthodontic option for many patients because they stay in place and work continuously. For families searching for braces in Saginaw, dr schau provides personalized orthodontic evaluations to help determine whether braces, clear aligners, or another treatment option is most appropriate.

Braces may be recommended for children, teens, or adults who need help correcting tooth alignment, bite function, or spacing concerns. Because every smile is different, treatment begins with a consultation and exam at the Saginaw dental office.

What Dental Concerns Can Braces Correct?

Braces can help guide teeth into healthier positions and improve how the upper and lower teeth fit together. They may be used for both cosmetic and functional concerns.

Braces may help address:

• Crowded teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• Jaw alignment concerns
• Bite function issues
• Teeth that shifted after previous orthodontic treatment

Improving alignment may also make it easier to brush, floss, and maintain long-term oral health. Dr. Schau will evaluate your teeth and bite before recommending a treatment plan.

Why Patients Choose Traditional Braces

Patients searching for braces Saginaw or braces near me often want an orthodontic option that does not rely on remembering to wear removable trays. Since braces are attached to the teeth, they work throughout the day and night.

Traditional braces may be a good fit for patients who:

• Have moderate to more involved alignment concerns
• Need bite correction
• Prefer a fixed treatment option
• Are not ideal candidates for removable aligners
• Want orthodontic treatment for a child or teen
• Are adults who did not complete orthodontic care earlier in life

Braces can be customized to each patient’s needs, but treatment time and results vary based on the complexity of the case, oral hygiene, and appointment consistency.

Braces vs. Invisalign and Clear Aligners

Both braces and clear aligners can help straighten teeth. The better choice depends on your dental needs, lifestyle, age, and orthodontic goals.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces use brackets and wires to apply steady pressure to the teeth. They are fixed in place and adjusted periodically throughout treatment.

Potential advantages of braces include:

• Continuous tooth movement
• No need to remember removable trays
• Useful for many bite and spacing concerns
• Often appropriate for children and teens
• Helpful for patients with more complex alignment needs

Braces do require careful brushing and flossing, and patients usually need to avoid certain sticky, hard, or chewy foods that may damage brackets or wires.

Invisalign and Clear Aligners

Invisalign and clear aligners use removable trays to guide tooth movement. They are often selected by patients who want a less noticeable orthodontic option.

Clear aligners may be appropriate for mild to moderate alignment concerns, but they require consistent daily wear. Patients comparing orthodontic options can learn more about Invisalign and clear aligners.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Braces?

Braces may be appropriate for children, teens, and adults with alignment or bite concerns. They are often recommended when fixed orthodontic treatment may provide more consistent control than removable options.

You may be a candidate for braces if you have:

• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Bite alignment concerns
• Jaw alignment issues
• Difficulty cleaning between misaligned teeth
• Teeth that shifted after past orthodontic treatment
• A child or teen who needs orthodontic evaluation
• A preference for a fixed treatment option

Patients searching for orthodontist Saginaw MI may be looking for a provider who can evaluate treatment options close to home. Jennifer MB Schau, DDS offers orthodontic care in Saginaw, MI and can discuss whether braces are appropriate for your needs.

Who May Not Be Ready for Braces?

Some patients may need additional dental care before beginning braces. Healthy teeth and gums are important because orthodontic treatment places ongoing pressure on the teeth and supporting structures.

You may need to delay braces if you have:

• Untreated cavities
• Active gum disease
• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Dental infections
• Significant enamel concerns
• Restorative needs that should be completed first
• A case that may require referral to a specialist

If braces are not the right first step, Dr. Schau can explain what needs to be addressed before orthodontic treatment begins.

What to Expect During Braces Treatment

Orthodontic Evaluation

Your first step is an orthodontic evaluation. Dr. Schau will review your teeth, bite, oral health, and goals. Patients searching for an orthodontist Saginaw can use this visit to ask about braces, aligners, treatment expectations, and whether orthodontic care is appropriate.

You can also review the office’s broader orthodontics services to learn more about available treatment options.

Braces Placement

If braces are recommended, brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with wires. These wires help guide gradual tooth movement. The team will explain how to brush, floss, eat, and care for your braces at home.

Adjustment Visits

Braces require periodic appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments. During these visits, wires may be changed or adjusted to continue guiding tooth movement.

Mild pressure or soreness after an adjustment is common and usually temporary.

Retainers After Braces

After braces are removed, retainers help maintain the new tooth positions. Retainer wear is an important part of protecting your orthodontic results over time.

Dr. Schau will explain how often to wear your retainer and how to care for it properly.

How Long Do Braces Take?

Most patients wear braces for approximately 18–24 months, but treatment time varies. Some cases may be shorter, while more complex tooth or bite movement may require additional time.

Factors that can affect your timeline include:

• Severity of crowding or spacing
• Bite alignment needs
• Age and growth stage
• Oral hygiene
• Missed or delayed appointments
• Broken brackets or wires
• How teeth respond to movement

During your consultation, Dr. Schau can provide a more personalized estimate based on your exam.

How Much Do Braces Cost in Saginaw, MI?

The cost of braces in Saginaw, MI depends on your individual treatment plan. Pricing can vary because patients have different alignment needs, treatment timelines, and follow-up requirements.

Cost factors may include:

• Complexity of the case
• Estimated length of treatment
• Type of orthodontic treatment recommended
• Number of adjustment visits
• Retainers after braces
• Any dental care needed before starting

Families comparing braces places in Saginaw may be looking for clear information about options before starting treatment. Jennifer MB Schau, DDS can review your orthodontic needs and discuss next steps during a consultation.

Benefits and Limitations of Braces

Potential Benefits

Braces remain a commonly used orthodontic treatment because they are fixed, durable, and adaptable for a range of alignment concerns.

Potential benefits include:

• Continuous tooth movement
• No removable trays to track
• Useful for many bite concerns
• Appropriate for many children, teens, and adults
• Can help improve tooth alignment and bite function
• May support easier brushing and flossing after treatment

Possible Limitations

Braces also require commitment and careful home care. Dr. Schau will discuss what to expect before treatment begins.

Possible limitations include:

• More visible than clear aligners
• Temporary soreness after adjustments
• Food restrictions
• More detailed brushing and flossing routines
• Possible bracket or wire irritation
• Treatment time varies by case

Braces Near Saginaw and Surrounding Communities

Jennifer MB Schau, DDS provides braces consultations in Saginaw, MI for patients from nearby communities who want orthodontic care close to home.

The office serves patients from:

• Saginaw, MI
• Zilwaukee, MI
• Kochville, MI
• Carrollton Township, MI
• Swan Creek Township, MI
• Shields, MI
• Thomas Township, MI

If you live in or near Saginaw and are exploring orthodontic options for yourself or your child, Dr. Schau can evaluate your teeth, bite, and smile goals to help you understand whether braces are a suitable option.

Related Cosmetic and Orthodontic Options

Some patients choose braces as the first step in a broader smile plan. After alignment is complete, other cosmetic services may be considered depending on your goals and oral health.

Patients interested in additional smile improvements can explore smile makeover options, including treatments that may complement orthodontic care after braces are complete.

Schedule a Braces Consultation in Saginaw, MI

If you are considering braces in Saginaw, MI, Jennifer MB Schau, DDS can help you understand your options. Whether you are seeking orthodontic care for a child, teen, or adult, the first step is an evaluation of your teeth, bite, and treatment goals.

Jennifer MB Schau, DDS is located at:

5545 Colony Drive North #3
Saginaw, MI 48638

Call 989-799-0675 to schedule a braces consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do braces usually take?

Most patients wear braces for about 18–24 months, but treatment time varies. The timeline depends on crowding, spacing, bite concerns, oral hygiene, appointment consistency, and how teeth respond to movement. Dr. Schau can provide a more personalized estimate after evaluating your teeth and bite.

Are braces suitable for adults?

Yes. Many adults choose braces to correct alignment concerns that were never treated or that developed over time. Braces may be appropriate for adults with crowding, spacing, bite issues, or shifting teeth. A consultation helps determine whether braces or another orthodontic option is a better fit.

What is the difference between braces and Invisalign?

Braces are fixed to the teeth and work continuously with brackets and wires. Invisalign uses removable clear trays that must be worn consistently each day. Braces may be better for some complex cases, while Invisalign may be preferred by patients who want a removable and less noticeable option.

Do braces hurt?

Braces can cause mild soreness or pressure, especially after placement or adjustment visits. This discomfort is usually temporary and often improves within a few days. Dr. Schau will explain how to manage normal soreness and when to call the office if something feels unusual.

Can I get braces if I live near Zilwaukee, Kochville, Carrollton Township, Shields, or Thomas Township?

Yes. Jennifer MB Schau, DDS provides braces consultations in Saginaw, MI for patients from nearby communities, including Zilwaukee, Kochville, Carrollton Township, Swan Creek Township, Shields, and Thomas Township. A consultation can help determine whether braces are right for your needs.