Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are an orthodontic system that uses bonded brackets and archwires to move teeth into alignment. Each bracket is attached to a tooth and the archwire applies gentle, continuous force to guide movement. Regular adjustments change the wire tension and direct teeth toward their ideal positions.

Modern metal brackets are smaller and more comfortable than older designs, providing precise control for complex tooth movements. Elastic ties or built-in clips secure the wire while allowing controlled sliding and rotation. This mechanical, predictable method makes metal braces effective for a wide range of orthodontic needs.

Metal braces are suitable for children, teens and many adults who need correction for crowding, spacing or bite discrepancies. They are particularly recommended when predictable tooth movement and strong anchorage are required to address moderate to severe alignment issues. Your dentist or orthodontist evaluates oral health, jaw development and treatment goals to determine the best approach.

Patients must have healthy gums and teeth before starting orthodontic treatment, so any decay or periodontal concerns are treated first. Metal braces can be used alongside other dental procedures when coordinated with your dental provider. The practice in Laurel, NE can help assess suitability and explain alternatives based on your individual needs.

Treatment length with metal braces varies by case complexity, patient age and the specific movements required, but many treatments take between 18 and 30 months. Simple cases may finish sooner while more complex bite corrections or jaw growth issues can extend the timeline. Your orthodontic provider will estimate duration at the initial consultation and update that estimate during treatment.

Regular adjustment appointments are essential to maintain progress and keep the treatment on schedule. Compliance with care instructions, such as avoiding damaging foods and maintaining excellent oral hygiene, can help prevent delays. Periodic X-rays and photos allow the team to track results and make timely adjustments to the plan.

Initial visits include a full orthodontic assessment, records such as X-rays or scans, and placement of brackets and wires. Adjustment visits, typically every four to eight weeks, involve checking tooth movement and changing wires or elastics to continue progress. Each visit is usually brief and focused on fine-tuning the forces applied to the teeth.

It is normal to feel some pressure or mild soreness for a few days after an adjustment as teeth respond to new forces. Your care team will provide guidance on pain management, soft-food suggestions and when to contact the office for unusual discomfort. The office of Lesley Holloway the Dentist emphasizes clear communication so patients understand what to expect at each step.

Good oral hygiene is critical while wearing metal braces to prevent decay and gum problems around brackets and wires. Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled brush, use interdental brushes to clean between brackets, and floss daily with a floss threader or specialized orthodontic floss. Regular professional cleanings and routine dental checkups help maintain gum health and detect any issues early.

Avoid hard, sticky or very chewy foods that can bend wires or dislodge brackets, and consider cutting fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces. Wear protective mouthguards for contact sports to prevent injury to braces and teeth. Following these care steps helps keep treatment on track and supports long-term oral health.

Mild to moderate discomfort is common after initial placement and after adjustments as teeth shift, but severe pain is uncommon. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods and cold compresses can help manage soreness during the first few days after a change in wire or force. Orthodontic wax can reduce irritation from brackets or wires rubbing against the inside of the lips or cheeks.

If pain is persistent, sharp or associated with swelling or fever, contact your dental provider promptly to rule out complications. Regular follow-up visits allow the team to modify appliance components to improve comfort while preserving treatment progress. Clear instructions and support from the practice help patients manage normal discomfort safely.

Yes, metal braces are effective for addressing both tooth alignment and many bite problems, including overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites. By applying targeted forces, braces can move teeth and, in coordination with elastics or auxiliary appliances, guide jaw relationships toward a healthier bite. In growing patients, braces may be combined with growth-modifying appliances to influence jaw development.

Comprehensive diagnosis, including clinical exams and imaging, determines whether braces alone or a combined approach is needed to correct a bite issue. Collaboration between your dentist and, if needed, an orthodontic specialist ensures a treatment plan that addresses both function and stability. Properly corrected bites improve chewing efficiency, reduce wear and contribute to long-term oral health.

Metal braces offer predictable control for a wide range of tooth movements and are often preferred for complex cases that require precise rotations, vertical changes or significant bite correction. Clear aligners can be an excellent choice for many mild to moderate alignment concerns and offer the advantage of removability and a lower visual profile. The choice between braces and aligners depends on clinical needs, patient lifestyle and the orthodontist's assessment of which system will achieve the best results.

Metal braces require adherence to dietary restrictions and careful hygiene, while aligners require discipline in wearing them for the recommended daily hours. Some patients combine approaches, starting with braces for major corrections and finishing with aligners for refinement, depending on clinical judgment. Discussing goals and expectations with your provider helps identify the optimal treatment pathway for your smile.

Most traditional braces are made from high-grade stainless steel or, in some cases, nickel-titanium alloys for archwires that provide flexible, continuous force. These materials have a long history of safe use in orthodontics and are biocompatible for the vast majority of patients. If you have known metal sensitivities or allergies, your provider can discuss alternative materials or assessment steps before starting treatment.

All orthodontic appliances are manufactured to meet medical device safety standards and are applied using established clinical techniques. Your dental team monitors oral tissues throughout treatment to ensure healthy responses and will address any concerns promptly. Open communication about medical history and sensitivities helps maintain a safe treatment experience.

After bracket removal, your teeth are usually polished and final records such as photos or retainers are provided to protect the new alignment. Retention is essential because teeth naturally tend to shift back toward their original positions; retainers stabilize the results while supporting the surrounding bone and gum adaptation. The initial retention period typically requires full-time wear, transitioning to nighttime wear as directed by your provider.

Follow-up visits allow the team to monitor stability and adjust retainer recommendations over time based on your specific case. Many patients wear retainers long term to maintain alignment and protect their investment in treatment. Your orthodontic team will provide a clear retention plan and instructions for cleaning and caring for retainers to support lasting results.