Braces are designed to improve the position of the teeth and the way the bite fits together, but that does not mean every set has to look the same. WildSmiles braces use specially shaped metal brackets that allow patients to personalize the appearance of their treatment while the brackets and wires perform the work expected of fixed braces.
For children or teenagers who feel uncertain about getting braces, choosing shapes and elastic colors can make treatment feel more personal. Adults can enjoy the designs too. The important question is not simply which style looks the most fun, however. An orthodontist must first determine which appliance can safely and predictably complete the movements your smile needs.
At Parker Wentz Orthodontics, we offer WildSmiles braces for suitable patients in Lubbock and help families compare them with our other treatment options.
What Makes WildSmiles Braces Different?
Traditional metal brackets usually have a small square or rectangular appearance. WildSmiles changes the visible bracket design by offering shapes that can be mixed and matched across the smile.
The practice’s current WildSmiles braces page features options such as:
- Super-Star
- Flower-Power
- Baller
- Wild-Hearts
- Footballer
- Super-Diamond
- Mickey Mouse designs
Patients may also be able to pair the brackets with different elastic colors. Current designs and availability can change, so ask the Parker Wentz Orthodontics team which choices are available when your braces are placed.
The bracket shape is the main visible difference. WildSmiles brackets still work with an archwire and, when prescribed, elastic ties or other components of fixed orthodontic treatment.
Do WildSmiles Braces Work Like Traditional Metal Braces?
Yes. According to the manufacturer, WildSmiles brackets function like traditional brackets. The brackets are bonded to the teeth, and an archwire connects them. The orthodontist uses the appliance to apply planned forces that gradually move the teeth.
The shapes do not create a separate diagnosis or treatment plan. Dr. Wentz still evaluates the teeth, roots, bite, jaw relationships, periodontal support, and treatment goals before recommending an appliance. Depending on the correction needed, treatment may also involve elastics, an expander, or another orthodontic component.
WildSmiles braces should not be expected to make treatment automatically faster than conventional braces. Treatment time depends on the starting problem, the movements required, biological response, appliance care, appointment attendance, and patient cooperation.
Who May Be a Candidate for WildSmiles Braces?
WildSmiles may be considered for children, teenagers, or adults who are candidates for fixed metal braces and want a more expressive appearance. They may appeal to someone who:
- Likes the idea of selecting or combining bracket shapes
- Wants braces that reflect a favorite interest or personal style
- Prefers a fixed appliance that cannot be forgotten at home
- Enjoys changing elastic colors during treatment
- Is willing to follow brushing, food, and appliance-care instructions
Choosing the bracket design comes after the diagnosis. Some patients may benefit from another fixed-braces system, ceramic brackets, clear aligners, or treatment that includes additional appliances. Review the available types of braces and let the orthodontist explain which choices are appropriate for the movements you need.
Are WildSmiles Only for Children?
No. The playful shapes are especially popular with children and teens, but age alone does not determine whether someone can choose them. An adult who enjoys a particular design may also ask about WildSmiles.
Younger children should not begin comprehensive braces simply because they like the brackets. Treatment timing depends on tooth eruption, growth, bite development, and the problem being corrected. If your child has not yet reached the right stage for comprehensive braces, Dr. Wentz may recommend observation or discuss whether early orthodontic treatment is needed for a separate developing concern.
An early orthodontic visit provides information and a plan. It does not automatically mean that braces should be placed immediately.
Can You Mix Bracket Shapes and Elastic Colors?
WildSmiles is designed to provide personalization. The manufacturer currently offers multiple collections and states that shapes can be mixed and matched. Patients can also pair many designs with colored elastics.
The available combination may depend on inventory, bracket prescription, tooth position, and the orthodontist’s clinical plan. Some teeth may require a particular attachment or component. Bring your favorite ideas to the consultation or placement appointment, and the team can explain what is possible for your treatment.
Elastic colors may be changed at certain adjustment visits when new ties are placed. The bracket shapes themselves generally stay in place until the orthodontist removes or replaces them.
Are WildSmiles Braces More Difficult to Clean?
Every fixed appliance requires careful cleaning. Brackets and wires create additional edges where plaque and food can collect, regardless of their shape. WildSmiles designs may give some patients a visible guide for checking the area around each bracket, but the shapes do not prevent cavities, gum inflammation, or permanent white marks by themselves.
Follow the personalized instructions from your orthodontist and dentist. Helpful habits generally include:
- Brushing carefully around the top, bottom, and sides of every bracket
- Using fluoride toothpaste
- Cleaning between the teeth every day with floss and any recommended threader, interdental brush, or water flosser
- Rinsing with water when brushing is not immediately possible
- Limiting frequent sugary or acidic drinks and snacks
- Continuing regular dental examinations and professional cleanings
If the shape is difficult to see because plaque is covering its edges, spend additional time brushing that area. Tell the orthodontic team if your gums bleed frequently, remain swollen, or if you are struggling to clean around the appliance.
Do WildSmiles Braces Have Different Food Rules?
The food precautions are generally similar to those for conventional fixed braces. Hard foods can loosen brackets or bend wires, while sticky foods may pull on the appliance and become difficult to remove.
Patients should avoid chewing ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels, and other foods identified by the orthodontic team. Cut firm fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces rather than biting directly into them. Choose softer foods for a few days if the teeth feel tender after placement or an adjustment.
If a bracket becomes loose or a wire begins to irritate the mouth, call the office for instructions. Do not attempt to glue a bracket back onto the tooth.
Can You Play Sports With Shaped Braces?
Yes. Braces do not prevent participation in most sports, but an orthodontic mouthguard is important for activities where the face or mouth could be hit. An orthodontic mouthguard is designed to fit over brackets and allow room for tooth movement.
Bring the mouthguard to an appointment if you are unsure about the fit. Replace it when it becomes damaged, too tight, or no longer provides adequate coverage. A mouthguard reduces injury risk, but it cannot prevent every dental or facial injury.
How Do WildSmiles Compare With Ceramic Braces or Clear Aligners?
These appliances offer different kinds of customization.
WildSmiles are visible metal brackets designed for patients who want to make braces part of their style. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored materials to make fixed treatment less noticeable. Clear aligners are removable trays that may be suitable for selected patients who want a discreet option and can wear the trays consistently.
Appearance is only one consideration. The orthodontist must also evaluate:
- The tooth and root movements required
- The complexity of the bite correction
- Growth and dental development
- Gum and bone support
- Existing restorations or missing teeth
- The patient’s ability to follow appliance instructions
- Personal preferences and daily routine
If more than one appliance can reasonably accomplish the plan, the consultation is an opportunity to compare appearance, responsibilities, limitations, and cost.
Do WildSmiles Braces Cost More?
The fee depends on the individualized treatment plan and the financial policies in effect when treatment begins. Specialty bracket options may affect the fee, but online averages cannot determine what a specific patient will pay.
At a complimentary exam, the team can provide the proposed treatment fee, explain what it includes, review estimated insurance benefits when applicable, and discuss available payment arrangements. Ask whether selecting WildSmiles changes the cost compared with standard metal brackets and whether any design choices involve an additional charge.
What Happens at a WildSmiles Consultation?
The first visit is about diagnosis before design. The orthodontic team will listen to your concerns and evaluate your teeth, bite, and facial relationships. Digital photographs, scans, and appropriate imaging may be recommended as part of treatment planning.
Dr. Parker Wentz will explain:
- Whether orthodontic treatment is recommended now
- Which tooth and bite concerns should be addressed
- Whether WildSmiles brackets are suitable for the proposed plan
- Which other braces or aligner options may be reasonable
- The estimated treatment process and timeline
- Appliance-care responsibilities
- The individualized fee and payment options
If treatment is not yet appropriate, the recommendation may be to monitor growth and tooth eruption rather than place braces immediately.
Will Retainers Be Needed After WildSmiles Braces?
Yes. After the brackets are removed, retainers help hold the teeth in their corrected positions while the surrounding tissues adapt. Teeth can continue to shift over time, so following the prescribed retainer schedule is important for protecting the result.
The retainer design depends on the patient’s treatment and needs, not on the decorative shape of the previous brackets. Learn more about orthodontic retainers and what happens after active treatment.
Explore WildSmiles Braces in Lubbock
WildSmiles can make fixed braces feel more personal without changing the need for thoughtful diagnosis, careful treatment planning, good oral hygiene, and patient cooperation. If you or your child likes the idea of stars, hearts, sports-inspired designs, or other shaped brackets, an orthodontic evaluation can determine whether WildSmiles fits the clinical plan.
Visit our Lubbock orthodontic office at 4013 98th Street or request a complimentary orthodontic exam. The Parker Wentz Orthodontics team will help you compare WildSmiles with other braces and clear-aligner options and choose an appropriate treatment plan for your smile.