Modern Traditional Metal Braces
Great Neck, NY Orthodontist
Traditional metal braces are a popular and effective orthodontic treatment option. They use brackets, wires, and bands to gradually shift teeth into their proper position, and can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues.
Brackets are cemented onto the surface of your teeth and connected by a wire that is gradually tightened over time. The tension on the wire slowly moves your teeth into their proper position.
Dr. Danoff is a Board Certified Orthodontist
There is a difference between a licensed orthodontist and a board certified orthodontist. Only about 30% of practicing orthodontists in the United States are board certified. Certification involves significantly exceeding the educational and achievement requirements and is rewarded after completing 3 additional years of education along with a qualifying examination.
Advantages of Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces have several advantages over other orthodontic options. They are more versatile and can be used to treat a wider range of orthodontic issues. They are also more affordable than some other options, making them a great choice for many patients.
Who Can Benefit from Traditional Metal Braces?
Traditional metal braces are great options for patients with complex orthodontic issues that require more precise movements or even extractions.
Patients who are good candidates for metal braces include those with severe tooth crowding or crooked teeth, overbites, or underbites and can treat children, teens, and adults.
Metal braces also carry the option for colored bands making them somewhat of a fashion statement particularly with our younger patients.
Putting On Your Braces
Getting braces is an exciting step towards achieving a straighter, healthier smile. At Danoff Orthodontics, we strive to make the process of getting braces a fun experience that's comfortable and as stress-free as possible.
Here's what you can expect when you come in for your braces placement appointment:
Step 1: Cleaning and Prepping the Teeth
Before placing the braces, we will thoroughly clean and dry your teeth and then we'll apply a conditioning solution to help the brackets adhere to the teeth.
Step 2: Placing the Brackets
Using a special adhesive, we will carefully place each bracket on your teeth. Once it's in just the right spot, we use a special light to cure the adhesive, ensuring that the brackets stay securely in place.
Step 3: Attaching the Arch Wire
After the brackets are in place, it's time to attach the arch wire across the brackets. The arch wire is what exerts gentle pressure on the teeth to move them into the correct position. Once the arch wire is in place, we attach small elastics, called ligatures, to hold the arch wire in place.
Step 4: Adjusting the Braces
Once the braces are in place, we will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that they are properly aligned. We'll also go over instructions on how to care for your braces and what foods to avoid while wearing them.
After your braces are placed, you may experience some discomfort as your teeth adjust to the pressure of the arch wire. This discomfort usually subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
Braces Cost, Insurance, and Financing
The cost of traditional metal braces is often more affordable than other orthodontic options, such as clear braces or Invisalign. Some insurance plans can cover all or part of the cost of orthodontic treatment. We will work with you to see if your specific plan covers any costs for traditional braces.
If you need to finance braces treatment, our office offers CareCredit financing which offers low interest affordable monthly payments for those who qualify.
Metal Braces vs. Other Ortho Options
Metal braces and other orthodontic options each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Metal braces are more affordable and effective in treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, but they are also more noticeable than other options.
During your initial consultation, we will discuss which treatment option is best for your individual needs.
Oral Hygiene with Braces
Oral hygiene is important for everyone, but it's especially important for patients who are wearing braces. Braces can make it harder to keep your teeth and gums clean, which can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. That's why it's important to follow a good oral hygiene routine while you're wearing braces.
Brushing with Braces
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is important for removing plaque and food particles that can get stuck in your braces. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and braces. Start by brushing the outer surfaces of your teeth, then the inner surfaces, and finally the chewing surfaces. Be sure to brush around your brackets and wires to remove any food particles that may be stuck there. Consider using an interdental brush to clean between the brackets and wires.
Flossing with Braces
Flossing is also important for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and braces. Use a floss threader to get the floss under the wires and between the teeth. Gently slide the floss up and down the sides of each tooth and along the gum line. Be sure to floss every day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Eating with Braces
While wearing braces, it's important to avoid certain foods that can damage your braces or get stuck in them, such as hard candies, popcorn, nuts, and chewy or sticky foods. Cut your food into small pieces and chew with your back teeth to avoid damaging your braces.
Mouthwash with Braces
Once the braces are in place, we will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that they are properly aligned. We'll also go over instructions on how to care for your braces and what foods to avoid while wearing them.
At Danoff Orthodontics, we are proud to offer traditional metal braces as an effective orthodontic treatment option. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how metal braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
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