Metal Braces

About Metal Braces

The most common type of braces – and the one you’re likely most familiar with – comes in the form of metal braces. Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and are cemented onto the fronts of a patient’s teeth. Over time, they will gently pull on the teeth and gradually shift them to give a patient a straighter smile. Braces aren’t only used for straightening teeth, though; they can also treat a variety of malocclusions (bad bites). These can include overbites, underbites, and other jaw abnormalities.

The best part is that modern metal braces are now more convenient than ever! They’re lighter, smaller, more durable, and they’re even customizable. Patients will have the ability to personalize their braces by choosing the color of the elastics to give themselves unique looks.

The Parts of Metal Braces

Modern metal braces are composed of these main parts:

• Brackets – These small, steel, square-shaped pieces are cemented to the fronts of a patient’s teeth.
• Archwire – This is a thin wire that runs through each of the metal brackets. It puts pressure on the brackets in order to guide the teeth into a straighter position.
• Rubber Bands or Elastics – These ties are used to ensure that the archwire is held to the brackets.

The Advantages of Metal Braces

Despite being the most traditional form of orthodontic treatment, metal braces still offer many great qualities that can make them a preferable option in comparison with alternatives. Some of the advantages that they provide include the following:

• Metal braces are better at treating some of the more complex orthodontic problems.
• This orthodontic treatment will often offer a quicker treatment time.
• Because they’re cemented onto a patient’s teeth, there’s never any worry about forgetting to wear them.
• They’re a time-tested and trusted way of straightening a patient’s smile.
• They’re less expensive than other types of orthodontic treatment.