Conventional Metal Braces at Focus Orthodontics
Traditional Treatments in Burwood
Conventional metal braces aren’t just the most common choice of braces (particularly among teenagers), but they’re also often the most affordable. Despite their not-so-popular history some decades ago, metal braces have come a long way. They are a lot lighter in weight and structure than they used to be!
The stainless-steel brackets are attached to the patient’s teeth using a type of cement and these are then linked to one another using a thin wire. This then guides the teeth to move into their ideal positions. The wire is connected to each tooth bracket using o-rings or ligatures and these simply resemble tiny elastics. One of the most fun aspects of conventional metal braces is being able to choose what colour elastics you’d like each month. Some patients like to get very creative!
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Metal Braces?
Most of our traditional orthodontic patients are children and teens; however, adults make good candidates for this treatment as well. Because conventional bracket and wire systems allow us to address more serious bite issues, traditional designs are appropriate for everything from mild to more severe alignment needs.
Length of Treatment
Every patient’s smile is different from the next. During your consultation, we can provide you with a good estimate as to how long it will take to properly align your bite. Most individuals complete their treatment somewhere between 12-24 months. If the braces are for cosmetic purposes (meaning that we are only aligning the front teeth) as opposed to comprehensive, the duration is typically much shorter.
Caring for Your Braces During Treatment
There are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that your time spent in braces is effective and beneficial to your overall smile.
- Floss daily, using appropriate threaders or a water flosser to clean between teeth.
- Brush thoroughly around each bracket and along the gumline to prevent gingivitis and new cavity formation.
- Avoid sticky or hard, crunchy foods as these may damage your orthodontic appliances.
- Keep your regularly scheduled appointments, so that treatment can progress in a timely manner.
Book a consultation today to learn more!
Want to Learn More?
Would you like to smile with more confidence? Contact us today to find out if traditional braces are right for you!
