Metal braces are used to correct a wide range of bite issues. They have been the most iconic treatment option to improve overall oral health, create better smiles, and fix crooked teeth. Specifically, we offer Damon Braces, a more modern type of metal braces that typically cause less discomfort, are easier to clean, and may require fewer adjustments. Braces are usually worn by kids and teens, but some adults choose to wear them as well.
Braces correct an overbite or underbite, crooked teeth, gaps, crowded teeth, or overlapping teeth, for both personal and dental health reasons. Poorly aligned teeth make it difficult to speak, bite, and chew. Braces slowly move your teeth into the proper position and give you a natural, more confident smile.
How Traditional Braces Work
The first step is to decide what type of braces are right for you. Metal or “traditional braces” use a combination of stainless steel brackets, arch wires, and elastic ties or bands to gently move your teeth into a better alignment.
Before you get metal braces, our team performs a full orthodontic examination and takes X-rays to determine the current position of your teeth. We then map out a plan to gently move your teeth into more desirable alignment.
With traditional braces, brackets are attached to your teeth. Small bands are placed between and around your molar teeth, which are then connected to the brackets with a flexible wire. This wire is tightened to create sufficient tension to gently pull each tooth to a more desirable position. Spacers, rubber bands, and in some cases, a Carriere® Motion Appliance or other temporary anchoring devices may also be used to apply pressure.
As your teeth move, the bone in the jaw dissolves in front of the moving tooth and reforms behind it. So during treatment, you will have regular appointments with your local orthodontist to check the movement of your teeth. They might make adjustments to your braces by tightening or bending the wires.
In between these adjustment appointments, you may use the Smile Doctors Anywhere app to scan your smile and update your orthodontist on progress—saving you the time and energy you’d normally spend in our clinic.
When to Consider Metal Braces
Once your local orthodontist has a chance to examine your smile and talk with you about a plan, you might agree metal braces are the right option for you. Metal braces work for anyone who wants better oral health and a more confident smile.
Some of the dental conditions metal braces may treat most effectively include:
- Speech impediments caused by misaligned teeth
- Severe jaw pain or Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
- Teeth that interfere with biting, chewing, and swallowing
- Loud snoring, mouth breathing, and sleep apnea
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (also called Bruxism)
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite or underbite issues
- Gum disease caused by misaligned teeth that are hard to clean
Frequently Asked Questions About Traditional Braces
Q: How long will metal braces take to straighten my teeth?
Depending on the adjustments that need to be made to your smile, the average orthodontic treatment for braces usually lasts anywhere from 1½-2 years.
Q: Are metal braces expensive?
The cost of braces depends on the amount of adjustment needed to create your ideal smile. Taking care of your teeth between adjustments helps to reduce orthodontist visits. Because of the length of time involved and the hands-on care provided by your orthodontics team, most patients agree that the end result is well worth the investment. Insurance may cover a portion of your costs, and we also offer affordable payment plans—because everyone deserves a great smile!
Q: Do traditional braces hurt more than ceramic braces?
A: Some patients choose clear or ceramic braces for aesthetic purposes, although they may be slightly more expensive than metal braces. Clear braces are also generally less painful because the ceramic material is not as abrasive as metal. However, you might be amazed at how quickly the mouth can adapt to braces, and many times the discomfort is minimal and temporary.
Talk to your local orthodontist about the different types of braces available today to find the best choice based on your needs, goals, and budget.
Find a Local Orthodontist for Metal Braces Near You
Smile Doctors is the fastest-growing network of trusted orthodontists in the country. We customize treatment plans for kids, teens, and adults. Schedule a FREE consultation today with a skilled orthodontist at your local Smile Doctors clinic, and find out whether metal braces can help you smile with confidence!