Preserving Your Natural Arc
The science behind smiles that truly pop
At The Art of Braces, Dr. Benson uses a technique called SAP (Smile Arc Protection). This means we intentionally place brackets higher on the tooth than with traditional orthodontic methods.
If you're not used to seeing braces placed this way, it can look unusual at first—but this is very intentional. Dr. Benson uses SAP to design smiles with optimal aesthetics and a truly WOW-worthy result, not just straight teeth.
The difference is best understood by seeing real patient results.
See the Difference
Drag the sliders to compare bracket placement vs. finished result
Traditional
SAP Smile
The Traditional "Flat" Smile
In the first photo, you'll see how our patient arrived from a previous orthodontic setup using a more traditional, flat bracket positioning technique. While her teeth were straight, the overall smile appeared flatter and less dynamic.
To the untrained eye, this may look "just fine." But aesthetically, it lacks the natural, flowing arc that makes a smile truly stand out.
The SAP Smile Arc Transformation
In the second photo, Dr. Benson repositioned her brackets using SAP bracket placement. The difference is striking.
The teeth don't just line up—they now follow the curve of the lower lip, allowing the lips to frame the smile beautifully. What was once a good smile is now an AMAZING smile that truly pops.
See SAP In Action
Watch Dr. Benson demonstrate the bracket positioning technique
The Takeaway
SAP isn't about doing braces differently for the sake of being different. It's about designing smiles intentionally, protecting the smile arc, and delivering results that look natural, confident, and unforgettable.
Straight teeth are good. A beautifully designed smile arc is next-level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my brackets look higher than normal?
We use a specialized technique called SAP (Smile Arc Protection), which involves placing brackets higher on the teeth than traditional orthodontic methods.
This approach allows us to preserve and enhance your natural smile arc. By positioning the brackets higher, we can guide the teeth to follow the curve of the lower lip—so the lips naturally frame the smile beautifully once treatment is complete.
While this bracket placement may look different at first, it is completely intentional. Our goal isn't just straight teeth—it's a smile that looks natural, balanced, and aesthetically stunning.
SAP helps transform a good smile into an AMAZING, WOW-worthy result.
How is SAP treatment tailored for my specific smile?
While in most cases, the SAP technique involves placing the brackets slightly higher than normal, the overall bracket positioning may be altered depending on your desired results and current smile. Additionally, your bite may play a role in the positioning of the brackets. For example, if you have an overbite, the position of the lower anterior and posterior brackets can be adjusted to correct the bite.
Does SAP work with all types of braces?
Yes! Dr. Benson utilizes Smile Arc Protection (SAP) when treatment planning for all patients receiving braces, including metal braces and clear ceramic braces.
Experience the SAP Difference
Schedule a consultation to learn how Smile Arc Protection creates smiles that truly stand out.