Orthodontic care
Metal and Ceramic Braces in NW Portland
Braces remain one of the most reliable, versatile ways to work toward a healthy, well-aligned smile. At Bridge City Orthodontics in NW Portland, you'll find both traditional metal and discreet ceramic options for every age.
Braces work by gently and steadily guiding your teeth into better positions using brackets and a thin archwire. They can address a wide range of cases — from simple crowding to more complex bite issues — which is part of why they remain a go-to choice for orthodontists treating kids, teens, and adults alike. At Bridge City Orthodontics, Dr. Alex Vo offers two main paths: classic metal braces, which are durable and efficient, and clear ceramic braces, with tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your natural smile for a more subtle look.
Our approach is tech-forward and built around your comfort. We start with a quick, goop-free 3D digital scan instead of messy impressions, so we can plan your treatment with precision from day one. From there, your plan is tailored to your goals, your bite, and your life here in NW Portland — and we'll walk you through what to expect at every visit.
Why patients choose it
- Effective for a wide range of cases, from mild crowding to more complex bite correction
- Metal braces are durable, efficient, and a great fit for active kids and teens
- Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend in for a more discreet look
- No goopy impressions — we use comfortable, goop-free 3D digital scans
- A fixed appliance means there's nothing to remember to wear or take out
- A well-established treatment, overseen by Dr. Vo, a residency-trained orthodontist
What to expect
- 1
Free consultation and 3D scan
You'll meet Dr. Vo, talk through your goals, and get a comfortable, goop-free 3D digital scan. We'll review your options and what braces could look like for you — no pressure, no cost.
- 2
Your personalized plan
We map out your treatment, help you choose between metal and ceramic, and explain the expected timeline. Because every smile is different, your estimated length of treatment depends on your individual case.
- 3
Placing your braces
At your bonding appointment, we attach the brackets and archwire. It's a straightforward visit, and you'll go home knowing how to care for your braces and which foods to favor or avoid.
- 4
Adjustments and progress checks
You'll come in periodically so we can adjust your wires and track progress. Once your teeth reach their goal, we remove the braces and move you into retainers to help protect your results.
A good fit if…
- Kids and teens who need anything from straightforward to more involved alignment and bite correction
- Adults who want a proven, reliable treatment and don't mind visible or subtle hardware
- Patients with more complex cases that may be better suited to braces than aligners
- Families looking for a durable, low-maintenance option for active kids
- Anyone who prefers a fixed appliance they don't have to remember to wear
Common questions
How long does treatment with braces take?
Most patients wear braces about 12–24 months. Simpler cases can finish sooner, and more complex cases — including those that require coordination with other providers — can take longer, sometimes up to roughly 30 months. Your timeline depends on your bite, your goals, and how your teeth respond. After a comfortable 3D scan, Dr. Vo gives you a personalized estimate. (Timelines are estimates and vary by case.)
Do braces hurt?
Braces shouldn't be painful. It's normal to feel some pressure or tenderness for a few days after they're placed and after adjustments, since your teeth are gently moving. Most people manage easily with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief, and the soreness fades quickly. If a wire is poking or anything feels sharp, call or text us and we'll help.
What's the difference between metal, ceramic, and self-ligating braces?
Metal braces are the classic, durable option. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend in for a more discreet look. Self-ligating braces hold the wire without elastic ties, which can mean fewer parts and sometimes quicker visits. All three move teeth effectively; Dr. Vo helps you choose based on your bite, your goals, and your preferences.
Should I choose braces or clear aligners?
It depends on your bite and your daily life. Braces handle a very wide range of cases and don't rely on you remembering to wear them. Clear aligners are removable and discreet, which many adults and teens prefer. Some cases do best with a combination. At your free consultation, Dr. Vo reviews your 3D scan and recommends the option that fits you.
Can adults get braces?
Absolutely — a large share of orthodontic patients are adults, and it's never too late to improve your bite or smile. Many adults choose discreet options like ceramic braces or clear aligners, and we build treatment around your work and schedule. The best way to see your options is a free consultation.
How often will I have appointments?
Most patients in braces come in every several weeks for a quick check and any adjustments, though the exact schedule depends on your plan. We do our best to fit appointments around school and work, and your treatment plan will spell out what to expect along the way.
What should I avoid eating with braces?
It helps to skip very hard, sticky, or chewy foods — like hard candy, ice, caramel, and crunchy raw items — which can damage brackets and wires. Cutting firmer foods into smaller pieces makes them easier to manage. We'll give you a simple list at your appointment so your day-to-day doesn't have to be a guessing game.
Related care
Clear Aligners
Invisalign, Spark, and Angel — plus in-office BCO aligners. We fit the system to your bite, instead of limiting you to one brand.
Teen Orthodontics
Braces or clear aligners built around school, sports, and real teen life.
Retainers
Custom fixed and removable retainers to protect the smile you worked for.
Curious whether Braces is right for you?
Find out at a free consultation with Dr. Alex Vo — a clear plan and honest pricing, with no pressure.