Metal Braces
When teeth are severely overcrowded, traditional metal braces are usually recommended because they allow the dentist to have greater control over the movement of the teeth by shifting them in small increments.
Braces in Bartow, FL
Braces help fix dental issues like crowding, crooked teeth and misalignment. Metal braces use brackets attached to the front of teeth or bands around each tooth, connected by flexible arch wires. Rubber bands or metal ties may be used to create extra pressure and improve alignment. Clear brackets and tooth-colored wires can help make braces less noticeable.
Our doctors will discuss your options and decide if braces fit your needs. Success depends on your commitment—wearing elastics, attending appointments and maintaining excellent home care is essential. Preventative visits with your hygienist will also help ensure a positive outcome.
At Peak Dental in Bartow, FL, we specialize in orthodontic care and supporting patients throughout treatment for a healthy, beautiful smile. It’s never too late to explore ways to enhance your smile. Contact us to see if braces are right for you!
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How do I take care of my braces?
If you have metal dental braces, taking proper care of them is important to ensure that they work effectively and to avoid complications. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid eating chewy or sticky foods, which can get stuck in your braces. If you do eat these foods, cut them into smaller pieces to reduce the risk of them getting stuck.
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly, paying extra attention to the braces and the areas around them. With braces, there are more spaces and crevices for food to get stuck, so keeping your teeth as clean as possible is important.
- Keep up with your regular appointments with your dentist or orthodontist. They will need to adjust and maintain your braces over time to ensure that they are working correctly and to monitor your progress.
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What are the different types of braces?
- Metal/traditional braces: Traditional braces are made of metal. They include brackets attached to the front of your teeth, bands that fit around each tooth, and flexible wires or archwires that hold the brackets or bands together. Some braces include rubber bands or metal ties linking the brackets to the wire. These bands create more pressure to help straighten and align your teeth.
- Ceramic braces: Traditional brackets are now also made of tooth-colored ceramic, so you don’t notice them as much. They can also be made of stainless steel, clear materials or gold.
- Lingual braces: The brackets on these braces are attached to the backs of your teeth, facing your tongue. Lingual braces are more rigid to see.
- Clear aligners: These are clear plastic trays that fit snugly onto your teeth, using pressure to gently move your teeth into the correct positions and straighten your smile. You remove the aligners to eat, brush and floss, but you should keep them for at least 22 hours each day for them to work. The orthodontist may also place tooth-colored attachments onto your teeth to hold the aligners in place.
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How much do braces cost?
The cost of braces and aligners depends on the severity of the problem, the treatment options discussed with your dentist, individual insurance coverage and dental office payment options. On average, these solutions range from $2,000 to $5,000.
More questions?
If you have questions on metal braces, contact our office today.
