Metal Braces

The most common and economic type of braces, metal braces adjust the position of teeth and improve a patient's occlusion (bite). First, an orthodontist fastens semi-permanent stainless metal brackets to teeth with an orthodontic cement-like material. Second, the orthodontist strings a wire through the brackets. Once the application process is complete, regular appointments must be made for periodic adjustments to the wiring, gradually straightening and shifting teeth.

The orthodontist will typically tighten the wires every four to six weeks. Within two and a half years, depending on the degree of malocclusion, the patient should see a straight, even smile emerge. Once the metal wires and brackets are removed by the orthodontist, the patient commonly wears an orthodontic retainer for six months to a year to ensure continued straight teeth.

Traditional metal braces are a popular option for correcting malocclusion and repositioning abnormally spaced or crowded teeth. Metal braces can be used simultaneously with other orthodontic appliances such as bite guards, head gear, orthodontic elastics and plates to correct palate problems.