I had my braces when I was 10 years old back in 1999, it is now 2011 and my teeth are still prefectly straight. I have met people recently who stated that they have had braces before (with a diff orthodontist) and I cant tell because their teeth look so messed up. Dr. Merz is amazing. I know reside in Texas and work in an ortho office. A few of my patients moved to southern CA so I refer them to her office. She is great and gave me the confidence I have today. I cannot stop smiling because my teeth are so prefect!