A huge variety of braces are available today, but metal braces remain a popular and more traditional option. Metal braces are fixed orthodontic appliances that precisely straighten teeth and correct bite problems. Traditional metal braces can correct a wide variety of problems, including more complex ones. They are durable and produce reliable and predictable results.
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Most people are familiar with metal braces. The components are made from high-quality steel or titanium. These have metal brackets bonded onto teeth and remain in place for the duration of treatment.
Metal wires, called arch wires, are attached to the brackets. These archwires are secured in place by elastics, also called ligatures. The elastics are often brightly colored and help apply pressure to the brace brackets and wires, pulling teeth into the proper positions so they become correctly aligned.
The arch wires can be adjusted regularly to increase tension. The ligatures are changed at every appointment to continue applying more pressure onto the teeth.
Once your metal braces are fitted, they apply continual pressure onto your teeth. Sometimes, it may be necessary to wear springs to help increase the tension.
“ Best dental office hands down! My son and i came here regularly for my cleanings. I also just got my braces taken off. In love with my new smile! The staff is always so welcoming and will do everything in their powers to make you comfortable. Bella did my braces and always just a phone call away when I ever had any questions regarding my treatment.“
Jasmine Julien Invisalign Patient
Metal braces are particularly good at treating a wide range of orthodontic problems. They can correct misaligned teeth precisely. Common problems that can be addressed with metal braces include:
The controlled pressure metal braces produce gradually moves your teeth into their proper positions.
Metal braces can provide some significant benefits, including:
Metal braces remain popular because they can provide extremely precise tooth movements, realigning your bite correctly. They are ideal when more complex tooth movements are needed and work continuously to straighten your teeth.
Metal braces are a good choice if you want an affordable orthodontic solution. They are cost-effective and can provide transformative results.
It’s more likely that dental insurance will cover a greater percentage of the cost of metal braces.
The metal components used to straighten your teeth are durable and hard-wearing. The metal will not stain or discolor during treatment.
Straightening your teeth can benefit your oral health. When teeth are severely misaligned, it makes them harder to keep clean, so your risk of oral disease is higher. Teeth that don’t bite together properly can wear more quickly or cause problems with your jaw joints.
Metal braces can address these issues, giving you teeth that are nicely aligned and easier to keep clean while protecting your jaw joints.
Like any treatment, there are some disadvantages, including:
Metal braces are highly visible in the mouth, making it obvious to everyone that you are receiving orthodontic treatment. If you feel self-conscious about orthodontics, metal braces for adults are just one option. You may feel more comfortable choosing a more discreet treatment.
All fixed braces require dietary modifications, and metal braces are no exception. Although the brackets and wires are durable, they can easily trap food, and they may become damaged if you eat hard or sticky foods.
Oral hygiene with fixed braces takes longer to complete. You must use special tools to clean around the brackets and wires thoroughly.
Failing to clean around the brackets can cause discoloration and staining. When the brackets are removed, you may find white spots on your teeth that indicate the first signs of cavities.
You will need to see our orthodontist regularly during any orthodontic treatment. Appointments for fixed braces like metal braces take longer than for removable aligners like Invisalign. We need to adjust wires and ligatures rather than just monitor your treatment progress.
Metal brace components can break or become unbonded from your teeth. If a breakage occurs, it is essential to see us quickly for a professional repair. Delaying repairs could impact your treatment plan, prolonging it.
Metal braces are comparable with other orthodontic solutions like ceramic and clear braces.
Instead of metal brackets, ceramic braces have brackets made from a ceramic material that may be tooth colored or transparent. These braces are more discreet than metal braces as they are less noticeable in the mouth.
However, there are other important distinctions between them.
Clear braces can include systems like Invisalign and fixed clear braces. The clear aligners or brace brackets are virtually invisible compared with metal braces, making these systems very appealing.
Other distinctions between the two systems include the following.
Because there are multiple orthodontic systems available, it’s important to see an orthodontist so you can make an informed decision.
Many adults find metal braces a good, affordable solution. Although they are visible in the mouth, some people choose to make a feature of them by using brightly colored elastics or ligatures to express their personality.
If metal braces don’t appeal, then now you know there are other options worth considering.
When you see our orthodontist, we can examine your mouth and discuss your concerns, budget, and treatment aims before recommending suitable solutions. We can ensure you understand how each system works, give you a broad overview of the potential pros and cons, and help you make the right choice for your needs.
