Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common types of dental braces used in orthodontic treatment and they're safe for all ages. They're a straightforward and economical way to correct nearly all forms of tooth misalignment.

The brackets and wires used in traditional metal braces are made of hypoallergenic stainless steel material. These brackets are very durable and long-lasting because they're created with a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other metals.

Today's Metal Braces Are Better than the Past

Sturdy & Reliable

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.

Better 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.

The Different Parts of 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 are attached to the teeth using a special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.

Glue

This is what Dr. Bennett 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.

Wire

This thin piece of metal runs from one bracket to another. Dr. Bennett will change the shape and curvature of the wire in order to move your teeth in the right direction.

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

Elastics are generally 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.

Orthodontic bands

These are stainless steel rings that are cemented to the teeth using dental bonding agents.

These bands can provide an anchor for the braces and oftentimes orthodontic appliances, but they are not used with all patients.

Spacers

These small elastic “donuts” or rings can be used to create space in between the teeth when needed, typically before bands are placed. They are also referred to as separators.

Watch Your Progress

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.

The average time spent in metal braces tends to be around 18 to 22 months but could be shorter or longer, depending on the individual.

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.