Braces 101: Everything You Need to Know
From how braces work to what to eat, costs, and timelines — your complete guide from the orthodontists at Cool Smilez in Hialeah and Miami Gardens, FL.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to your teeth over time, gradually moving them into the correct position. The system consists of three main components:
As the wire is tightened at each monthly visit at our Hialeah or Miami Gardens office, it exerts pressure that slowly moves teeth into alignment over 12–24 months.
Braces Can Fix:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite (upper teeth too far forward)
- Underbite (lower teeth in front of upper)
- Crossbite (teeth don't align side to side)
- Open bite (teeth don't touch when closed)
- Misaligned jaw
- Crooked teeth
Types of Braces Available in Hialeah & Miami Gardens
Cool Smilez offers three orthodontic treatment options at our Hialeah and Miami Gardens offices. Your orthodontist will help you choose the best fit.
Traditional Metal Braces
From $2,988.88
Pros
- Most affordable option
- Fastest treatment time
- Works for all cases
- Durable and reliable
Considerations
- Most visible option
- Some food restrictions
Ceramic (Tooth-Colored) Braces
Ask for pricing
Pros
- Less visible than metal
- Same effectiveness as metal
- Great for adults & teens
- Comfortable brackets
Considerations
- Slightly more expensive
- Can stain if not cared for
ClearCorrect Clear Aligners
From $3,588.00
Pros
- Virtually invisible
- Removable — eat anything
- Easy to clean teeth
- Comfortable, no wires
Considerations
- Must be worn 22 hrs/day
- Not for severe cases
Your Braces Journey — Step by Step
What to expect from your first visit to your final smile at Cool Smilez in Hialeah or Miami Gardens.
Consultation
Day 1Free exam, X-rays, and photos at our Hialeah or Miami Gardens office. Your orthodontist reviews your case and presents treatment options.
Records & Planning
Week 1–2Digital scans or impressions taken. A custom treatment plan is created specifically for your teeth and bite.
Braces Placed
Appointment 2Brackets are bonded to teeth and wires are threaded through. Takes about 1–2 hours. Mild soreness for 2–3 days is normal.
Monthly Adjustments
Every 4–8 weeksQuick visits to our Hialeah or Miami Gardens office to tighten wires and monitor progress. Each visit takes about 20–30 minutes.
Braces Removed
12–24 monthsBrackets are removed and teeth are polished. You'll see your new smile for the first time!
Retainer Phase
OngoingA retainer is worn to hold your teeth in their new positions. This is critical — skipping the retainer can cause teeth to shift back.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Certain foods can damage brackets or get stuck in wires. Our Hialeah and Miami Gardens orthodontists recommend avoiding:
Braces Care Tips
Brush after every meal
Food gets trapped in brackets easily. Brush for 2 minutes after each meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Floss daily with a floss threader
Regular flossing is harder with braces. Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between teeth and under the wire.
Use fluoride mouthwash
Rinse daily to prevent white spot lesions (decalcification) around brackets.
Wear your rubber bands
If your orthodontist prescribes rubber bands, wear them as directed. They're critical for correcting your bite.
Keep all adjustment appointments
Missing appointments at our Hialeah or Miami Gardens office extends your treatment time.
Braces FAQ — Hialeah & Miami Gardens
How much do braces cost in Hialeah and Miami Gardens?
At Cool Smilez, full braces treatment starts at $2,988.88 — significantly below the national average of $5,000–$7,000. ClearCorrect clear aligners start at $3,588.00. We offer no credit check financing from $99.88/month.
How long do braces take?
Most patients at our Hialeah and Miami Gardens offices complete treatment in 12–24 months. Minor cases can be done in as little as 6 months. Complex cases may take up to 30 months.
Do braces hurt?
Getting braces placed is painless. You may feel soreness for 2–4 days after placement and after each adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods help. Most patients adapt quickly.
Can I get braces with Medicaid in Florida?
Yes! Cool Smilez accepts Florida Medicaid at both our Hialeah and Miami Gardens locations. Medicaid covers orthodontic treatment for children who meet medical necessity criteria.
What is the difference between braces and Invisalign / ClearCorrect?
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires bonded to teeth. ClearCorrect uses a series of removable clear plastic trays. Braces are generally more affordable and work for all cases. Clear aligners are more discreet but require discipline to wear 22 hours per day.
Ready to Start? Book a Free Consultation
Visit our Hialeah or Miami Gardens orthodontic office. Braces from $2,988.88 — no credit check, Medicaid accepted, bilingual staff.