Cary Orthodontics for All Ages
Serving Smiles to Kids,
Teens, & Adults
Our Foley Orthodontics offers our Cary neighbors metal and custom clear braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners for kids, teenagers, and adults.
Orthodontics for Children
Big Possibilities for Little Smiles
The American Association of Orthodontists and Dr. Foley recommend that kids in Cary visit an orthodontist for an evaluation by age seven. But don't worry—this doesn't mean they're guaranteed to get braces!
This early visit is just a check-in to see how your child's teeth and jaw develop. In most cases, we'll monitor their growth over the years and let you know if and when treatment is needed.
If we do spot anything that could lead to bigger issues, early orthodontics can help guide jaw growth and make future treatment easier. Think of it as giving your child's smile a head start!
How Early Treatment Works
Your child's mouth shows early signs of jaw development and permanent teeth by age seven. Dr. Foley will closely examine their growth, keeping an eye out for anything that could cause problems later on.
Catching potential issues early allows us to use simpler, more effective, and often more affordable treatments compared to waiting until they're older.
Laying the Foundation
After your child's first evaluation, Dr. Foley may recommend Phase 1 treatment to help correct any developing orthodontic concerns.
Phase 1 typically lasts eight to 12 months and uses personalized treatments to guide jaw growth and create space for incoming teeth. This approach can help avoid more complex treatments down the road.
After Phase 1, we'll monitor your child's smile to see if Phase 2 treatment is necessary when their adult teeth come in.
Precision With Phase 2
Most kids start Phase 2 treatment between ages 11 and 14 once their permanent teeth have arrived.
If your child needs extra help perfecting their smile, Dr. Foley will create a custom plan to align their teeth and bite, ensuring everything fits and functions just right.
Advantages of Early Treatment
Wondering if early orthodontic treatment is worth it? We totally get it! The idea of starting treatment young can feel like a big decision.
Here's why early orthodontic care can be an asset:
- Less invasive treatment: Addressing issues early can help avoid extractions or more extensive treatment later.
- Better long-term results: A well-aligned jaw and bite set your child up for a healthier, more confident smile.
- Smoother experience: Early treatment can shorten or simplify braces later on.
Plus, at Foley Orthodontics, we make the process fun, stress-free, and completely tailored to your child's needs.
Signs to Look for in Your Child’s Smile
Here are a few key indicators to look for to know if your child needs orthodontic treatment:
- Crowded or missing teeth
- Premature or delayed loss of baby teeth
- Challenges in biting or chewing
- Speech difficulties
- Prolong pacifier use
- Narrow palette
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
Orthodontics for Teens
Confidence That Lasts a Lifetime
The teenage years are the perfect time for orthodontic treatment.
Whether your teen is starting Phase 2 treatment or getting braces for the first time, Dr. Foley and our team are here to help them achieve a smile they'll love—without disrupting their busy lives.
The Importance of Treatment
Lifelong Healthy Smiles
A straight smile isn't just about looks—it's also about long-term health.
Properly aligned teeth help prevent:
- Cavities & gum disease: Straight teeth are easier to keep clean.
- TMJ issues & jaw pain: A well-aligned bite reduces strain.
- Wear & tear: When teeth fit together properly, it prevents future damage.
Investing in orthodontic treatment now means fewer dental issues (and fewer appointments!) down the road.
Emboldening Your Teenager
Teen years are full of big milestones, new friendships, and social media moments. A confident smile can make all the difference!
We do more than straighten teeth at Foley Orthodontics—we help your teen feel great about their smile during these formative years and beyond.
Treatments Just for Teens
Your teen has plenty of flexible treatment options to match their lifestyle.
Dr. Foley will work with your family to find the perfect fit, from classic metal braces to subtle clear braces to nearly invisible clear aligners.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a discreet, comfortable option for teens who want to straighten their smile without brackets or wires.
- Nearly invisible: No one will even notice them.
- Removable: Let your teen eat, brush, and floss with ease.
- Custom-fit for teens: We design aligners to accommodate growing molars.
- Built-in wear indicators: They help track wear time for best results.
- Extra aligners included: Carry an extra set just in case yours go missing!
Clear aligners make it easy for your teen to stay confident and on track—whether they're in class, at practice, or taking selfies.
Custom Braces + Custom Clear Braces
Braces have come a long way, and today's options are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than ever.
- Precise digital scanning: You won’t have to worry with messy molds!
- Customized brackets: You’ll enjoy faster, more efficient treatment.
- Fewer adjustments: Spend less time in our chair, more time doing what they love.
- Faster results: A high-tech approach gives you a shorter treatment time.
Whether they choose classic metal braces or clear ceramic ones, Dr. Foley will ensure your teen gets a straight, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Orthodontics for Adults
Solutions for Grown-Up Smiles
Braces and clear aligners aren’t just for kids and teens—you’re never too old to get the smile you’ve always wanted.
At Foley Orthodontics, we offer discreet, effective orthodontic solutions that fit seamlessly into your busy life. Whether you want a small tweak or a full transformation, Dr. Foley can help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile—on your terms.
Why Consider Adult Orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about looks—it can also improve your dental health, comfort, and confidence. Here’s why more adults are choosing to straighten their smiles:
Looking Good, Feeling Great
If you’ve been self-conscious about crooked teeth or gaps, orthodontic treatment can help you feel more confident in every aspect of life—from the boardroom to family photos.
At Foley Orthodontics, we straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably, so you can enjoy the process as much as the results.
Your Teeth Can Move
Think your teeth stopped moving after your teenage years? Not quite. Over time, teeth naturally shift, which can cause:
- Crowding & misalignment: Misaligned teeth make brushing and flossing harder.
- Bite problems: Bad bites lead to jaw pain or uneven wear.
- Changes in your smile: It's possible that it might not match what you see in the mirror.
Orthodontic treatment can correct these shifts and keep your smile looking (and feeling) its best.
Protecting Your Dental Health
If you leave misaligned teeth untreated, you may develop other dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
You may also notice abnormal wear on the surface of your teeth or that it’s difficult to chew normally.
A Better Smile, Your Way
At Foley Orthodontics, we know adults need subtle, effective treatment that fits their lifestyle. That’s why we offer:
Sophisticated Solutions
Want to straighten your teeth without the spotlight? We offer clear aligners, which are virtually invisible and removable. What about braces? Beyond metal, we have ceramic braces that blend right in with your smile.
These options give you all the benefits of traditional braces without drawing attention, so people only notice your new smile.
Personalized Care for Adults
Every smile tells a different story, and every patient has different goals.
Whether you’re fixing a long-ignored dental issue, improving oral health, or finally getting the smile you’ve always wanted, Dr. Foley will create a personalized treatment plan just for you.
Let’s Go
Start your journey towards a healthy new smile today and schedule your free consultation with our expert and friendly orthodontist, Dr. Foley.
Visit Foley Orthodontics, and we’ll discuss your options and develop an orthodontic treatment plan designed just for your needs and smile goals. Call us at 919-249-4900 to get started.