Night Braces Specialist | Smile and Face Medical Center

Types of Braces

For people with scoliosis, finding the right treatment is crucial. The most common non-surgical treatments are braces: night-time braces and full-time braces. Each type has its own benefits and considerations.

Traditionally, scoliosis braces are worn for up to 23 hours a day, especially for children and teens during their most active growth periods. This approach has proven very successful. Night-time braces are a newer option—they are only worn while sleeping, so they don’t interfere with daily activities and allow for a more flexible lifestyle.

Full-Time Braces: Cheneau Brace

The Cheneau Brace was invented by Dr. Jacques Cheneau in France in the 1970s. It uses pressure and expansion zones in three dimensions to positively influence the spine. The brace is asymmetrical and designed to allow corrective breathing exercises (Schroth method) while wearing it. The goal is at least to stabilize the curve, but ideally to improve it over time.

Full-Time Braces: Boston Brace

The Boston Brace is a classic design developed by M.E. Miller and John Hall at Boston Children’s Hospital in 1972. It has a long track record of controlling curve progression. The brace is symmetrical and works by compressing the irregular curve to straighten the spine, aiming to place the spine in an ideal position.

Night-Time Braces: Charleston Bending Brace

Wearing a full-time brace can be tough for many patients—body image, activity restrictions, and skin irritation are common concerns. In 1978, Ralph Hooper and Dr. Frederick Reed in Charleston, South Carolina, developed the Charleston Bending Brace, designed to be worn only at night. This innovation helps address many of the challenges of full-time bracing.

Proven Effectiveness

Recent studies show that night-time braces can be just as effective as other types of scoliosis braces, with higher patient satisfaction and compliance. Another night-time brace, the Providence Brace, was invented by Charles d’Amato and Barry McCoy at Rhode Island Hospital in 1992. Both night-time braces have been shown to be especially effective for growing children and teens.

These braces apply corrective pressure to the spine while the body grows, helping to gradually realign the curve and prevent further progression.

Daytime Freedom

Unlike traditional braces that must be worn 23 hours a day, night-time braces are only worn while sleeping. This means patients don’t have to wear a brace at school or during the day, so they can enjoy all their usual activities—sports, dancing, swimming, and more. Night-time bracing also reduces the psychological impact of full-time bracing, making it easier for patients to stick with their treatment.

Comfort and Flexibility

Night-time braces offer a comfortable and flexible alternative to full-time bracing, especially for growing children and teens. The main benefit is that there’s no need to wear a brace during the day, making treatment more comfortable and less disruptive. The best choice depends on your lifestyle and needs—both options have pros and cons. Support from family and guidance from specialists are key to successful treatment.

Precision Fit

Every brace is custom-made to fit each patient’s unique needs. We use precise measurements and detailed analysis of the spine to ensure the best possible correction for every individual.

Results-Focused Care

We understand that every brace can impact a patient’s life. Our customer service and multidisciplinary team are here to support you throughout your treatment journey.

Continuous Improvement

We are committed to providing high-quality braces as quickly as possible. Every department is dedicated to streamlining and improving our processes so you get the care you need, when you need it.

Advanced Technology

We use advanced CAD/CAM and 3D scanning technology to eliminate manufacturing errors and ensure a perfect fit. Each brace is digitally designed to match the patient’s unique curve, and our certified orthotists craft every brace for optimal comfort and correction. Every pressure and breathing point is personalized for each patient.