Sturdy & Reliable
Traditional metal braces are probably the most recognizable symbol of orthodontics. They have a long history of successful treatment and are proven to correct oral issues ranging from mild to complex.
The Different Parts of Your Braces
Brackets
The brackets are typically made from a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other metals, and are very durable and long-lasting. Brackets have little hooks or doors, over which the wire is threaded. A bracket can be secured by closing the door, or by applying an elastic over the top of the wire.
Glue
This is what we will use to attach the brackets to your teeth. Although some orthodontists may attach the brackets to a metal band which is then crimped around the tooth to hold it in place, it’s much more common these days to attach the bracket directly to the tooth with glue. In cases that require more serious treatment, metal bands may be used together with glue to give the braces more leverage and stability.
Wire
This thin piece of metal runs from one bracket to another. We'll change the shape and curvature of the wire in order to move your teeth in the desired direction. Today's braces are much more comfortable than the past, thanks to shape-memory NiTi wires. Using the same technology as NASA, NiTi wires exert a continuous force against the teeth to move them in the right direction, eliminating the need for wire tightening, thus reducing a patient's overall time in braces –and much of the discomfort.
Elastics
For patients who need bite correction, elastics are essential. Most often, they're strung between an upper bracket hook and a lower bracket hook, pulling the upper jaw backward to correct an overbite, or the lower jaw backward to correct an underbite. You may also need rubber bands to help bring your front teeth together or to increase the number of teeth you show when you smile.
More Comfortable Than Ever
In the past, metal braces had a reputation for being a bit awkward and obvious, but modern orthodontics has produced versions that are smaller, less conspicuous, and far more comfortable than ever before.
Sleeker brackets and lighter wires improve the appearance and feel of these braces and help keep irritation in the mouth to a minimum.
More About Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces also come with a fun new twist without any extra cost - you can customize them with pops of color. The elastics that fit around brackets come in a wide variety of colors, and let you showcase your personality whenever you want. Pick your favorite color combination, the colors of your favorite sports team, even your school colors. We also offer silver, gray, white, black, and tooth-colored elastics for patients seeking a more subtle look.
A Great Treatment Choice
Braces are incredibly efficient at fixing complex tooth issues and can work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might, potentially shortening your treatment time. They don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments might, often making metal braces a cost-effective option. The strength, durability, and affordability of traditional metal braces keep them the top treatment for orthodontic patients, year after year.
Watch Your Progress
Because metal braces get right down to work, you’ll often be able to see some signs of progress in a relatively short period of time. It may not seem like much, but sometimes seeing even a slight improvement in your smile can give you a boost of encouragement on your orthodontic journey.
How Long Treatment Lasts
Every mouth is different, and every patient responds to treatment in their own way, so treatment time with metal braces will vary on a case-by-case. But, with our hyper-efficient techniques, most of our patients spend between 12-15 months in braces.
We have patients in braces for as little as six months, and for complex issues, it can take up to two years to complete the braces process. With metal braces, you can often see signs of improvement to your smile in just a short period of time, and that can help give you confidence inspiration during your treatment.
