metal braces
All patients who need orthodontic treatment are candidates for traditional braces. Today's metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable than in the past. They are made of high quality stainless steel or titanium, and use elastic ties to hold the wire to the bracket. These ties come in a variety of colors that can be changed to fit each patient’s style at each visit.
What Braces are Made Of
The three main parts of your braces are:
- Brackets — Brackets are attached to the teeth using special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.
- Archwire — The archwire is the thin metal wire that connects each bracket and puts pressure on the teeth to help guide them into place.
- Ligature Elastic (also known as the “rubber bands”) — Elastics, or rubber bands, are the colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. Your orthodontist will change the elastics at each appointment. Elastics may come in a variety of colors.
How Braces Work
Once placed on your teeth, braces place constant pressure on your teeth, and the force of the pressure helps move teeth into proper position. At each appointment, your orthodontist may tighten the archwires. In addition to braces, some patients may need to wear rubber bands or headgear. Patients wearing braces may notice their teeth feeling a little loose. This is normal and temporary; once the teeth are done moving this feeling will go away.
Metal Braces for All Ages
Traditional metal braces are still the most popular and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. Your orthodontist can help you determine what treatment is best for your individual case. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about how braces can enhance your smile.
Please keep in mind that with metal braces you’ll need to visit our orthodontic office every six weeks so Dr. Wong can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment.