Braces

Braces use constant, gentle pressure over time to move teeth into their correct positions. They consist of two main parts: the brackets that are fastened to your teeth and the main arch wire that connects them. The wire threads through the brackets and, as it tries to return to its original shape, it applies pressure to slowly move your teeth.

Orthodontists use braces to align teeth by applying constant pressure in a desired direction. This pressure can be adjusted at prescribed intervals over the course of the treatment, which usually lasts from one to three years or more. There are several types of orthodontic braces available to consumers, including the traditional metal braces and new clear braces.

Metal Braces

Silver metal braces are the type that are most often used in orthodontic treatment. They are constructed of a durable mixture of stainless steel, nickel and other metals. There are hundreds of variations of these materials, but all have the similar characteristic of having overhanging edges, or “wings”, around which a metal or elastic tie is used to hold the orthodontic wire in place.

Elastic ties come in many different colors for young patients’ teeth. Metal braces allow the wire to be tied in very tightly to the bracket, allowing better control in aligning crooked teeth. In addition, metal braces cost less than clear braces or other options.