Braces 101 · About Braces
About Braces.
How modern braces work, who they're for, and what to expect from treatment.
5.0★ on Google · 67 reviews · LA Top Orthodontist 2025
How braces work
Braces use a set of brackets bonded to each tooth connected by a specially shaped archwire. The wire, held in place at each bracket, applies light, continuous force to guide teeth into position over time. It's the simplest, most predictable way we know to move teeth precisely.
Modern braces: Pitts21 PRO
At SmileHaus our preferred bracket system is Pitts21 PRO, a self-ligating system developed by OC Orthodontics. The short version: Pitts21 PRO is lower profile, more comfortable, and generally requires fewer adjustment visits than traditional elastic-tied braces. Treatment times are often shorter for comparable cases.
Am I a candidate?
Teens and adults with most common orthodontic concerns are candidates for braces. Whether braces or Spark™ clear aligners will give you the best outcome depends on your specific bite, case complexity, and your priorities around discretion and removability.
The fastest way to find out is a complimentary consultation with Dr. Thompson.
Typical treatment timeline
Comprehensive adult cases with Pitts21 PRO typically finish in 12–18 months. Less complex cases can be shorter; cases with significant bite correction may run longer. Your consultation includes a specific timeline estimate for your case.
Ready when you are.
Your complimentary consultation with Dr. Karla Thompson is exactly that — complimentary. No commitment, no pressure, just clarity on what's possible.