Metal Braces

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces are orthodontic appliances made from high-grade stainless steel. They consist of small brackets affixed to the teeth and connected by an archwire that applies consistent pressure to guide teeth into their correct positions.

Benefits of metal braces:

• Strong and long-lasting
• Effective at straightening teeth
• Affordable compared to some other options

Components of Metal Braces:

• Brackets: Attached to the teeth with dental cement.
• Archwire: Connects brackets and exerts pressure for tooth movement.
• Elastics/Ligatures: Hold the archwire in place, sometimes colorful for personalization.

How Do Metal Braces Work?

Braces work by constantly applying pressure onto your teeth for an extended period of time. While one assumes that the teeth are directly fixed onto our jawbones, there’s actually a fiber below that connects teeth to jawbones. These are known as periodontal ligaments and one can assume them to be similar as shock absorbers for forces applied onto teeth. They also help in holding the tooth into its place. As these fibers are connected to the tooth roots, it reacts to the forces applied by braces by molding itself and thus allowing gradual movements.

Metal braces cause tooth movements by applying continuous & controlled forces to shift teeth. The Orthodontist upon examination plans for desired alignment and adjusts the wires periodically. This ensures that the necessary forces are maintained for safe & effective tooth movement. The law of force that every action has an equal and opposite reaction is not foreign to any of us and this is what happens in our oral cavity as well. In response to the forces, the bone and soft tissues around the teeth slowly adapt to applied pressure & remodel to allow teeth to move into their desired position.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Braces

Advantages:

• Cost-effective: Generally more affordable than alternatives like ceramic braces or clear aligners.
• Durability: Sturdy materials handle complex orthodontic cases.
• Customizable Appearance: Colorful bands allow for personalization.

Disadvantages:

• Visibility: Metal brackets and wires are more noticeable than ceramic braces or aligners.
• Discomfort: Some soreness during adjustments.
• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods to prevent damage.

How to Care for Metal Braces

Proper care ensures effective treatment and prevents oral health issues like plaque buildup:

Brushing and Flossing:

• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean around brackets and wires carefully.
• Interdental brushes or water flossers can reach tight spaces.

Dietary Adjustments:

• Avoid hard foods like nuts or candies that can damage braces.
• Limit sugary snacks to prevent decay around brackets.

Routine Checkups:

• Regular visits to the orthodontist ensure progress and allow for adjustments.

The Role of an Orthodontist

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who helps straighten teeth. They play an important role in the metal braces treatment process.

Pre-Treatment:

• Evaluates the patient’s teeth and bite to determine the best course of treatment.
• Discusses treatment options, including metal braces, with the patient and recommends the most suitable approach.

Treatment:

• Attaches the small metal brackets to the patient’s teeth.
• Connects the brackets with a wire.
• Adjusts the wire over time to gradually move the teeth into the correct position.
• Monitors the patient’s progress and tightens the wire at regular appointments, typically every 4-8 weeks.

Post-Treatment Care:

• Ensures the teeth are properly aligned and the patient achieves the desired results.
• Provides guidance on maintaining the new tooth positioning, which may include wearing a retainer.
• Schedules follow-up appointments to monitor long-term stability of the treatment.

Metal Braces vs Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are a popular choice for ones who prioritize aesthetics and are looking for less visibility when it comes to braces. Whereas metal braces are ideal for complex orthodontic needs as they can withstand greater pressure and are more durable.

Conventional Metal Braces vs. Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces are a modern alternative that eliminates the need for elastics. Instead, they use a sliding mechanism to hold the archwire.

Advantages of Self-Ligating Braces:

• Reduced friction leads to smoother tooth movement.
• Fewer dental visits for adjustments.

However, conventional metal braces remain a proven, cost-effective choice for most patients.

Factors Affecting the Age for Braces

Orthodontic evaluations are recommended by age 7. However, braces are suitable for all ages:

• Children: Early intervention for structural issues.
• Teens: A common time for treatment as most permanent teeth have erupted.
• Adults: Increasingly popular, though treatment may take longer due to denser bone structures.

The Procedure of Getting Metal Braces

Alternative Orthodontic Treatments

Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign, Straumann, Whistle):

• Nearly invisible and removable.
• Suitable for mild to moderate misalignments.

Lingual Braces:

• Hidden behind the teeth, but more costly and harder to clean.

Forsus Appliances:

• Correct overbites without the need for headgear.

Cost of Metal Braces

The cost varies widely, influenced by factors such as location, severity of misalignment, and insurance coverage:

• Average Cost: ₹31,400 to ₹73,400
• Payment Plans: Flexible options are available at your nearest Clove Dental Clinic.

Key Takeaway

Braces made of metal have stood the test of time. No alternative therapy has overtaken them, despite their evolution into lighter, more accurate, and more compact versions. They are still a flexible and dependable way to straighten out misaligned teeth.

For complex cases, metal braces remain the preferred option, though other options such as ceramic braces and clear aligners can accommodate particular preferences. Because of their dependability, efficiency, and adaptability, they are a reliable option for teeth straightening.

An orthodontic consultation is the best way to start forward if you’re thinking about getting your teeth alignment corrected. Be it metal braces or anything else, they are trained to help you choose the best course of action as per your circumstances. Just search for “Orthodontist Near Me” and one of our Clove experts will be there to meet you, evaluate your health and help you choose the best for yourself. Our combined efforts will help you achieve that straight, healthy smile that you’ve forever wanted.

Braces FAQs

1. Are metal braces better?

Yes, for many patients. Metal braces are highly effective, especially for complex dental misalignments. They offer precise control, durability, and comprehensive correction that other treatments might not achieve.

2. Are metal braces more expensive?

Generally more affordable compared to alternative treatments. Costs range from ₹31,400 to ₹73,400, with many insurance plans offering partial coverage and flexible payment options.

3. Are braces painful?

Getting braces is not usually painful, but some discomfort is common. This is felt when first getting them on or after adjustments. Any soreness typically goes away within a few days as you adjust. Over-the-counter pain medicines can help manage any discomfort. While braces don’t feel completely painless, the benefits of straighter teeth make the minor discomfort worth the trouble.

4. What can I eat with braces?

Best foods:

• Soft foods (yogurt, mashed potatoes)
• Cooked vegetables
• Soft breads and pasta
• Smoothies

Avoid:

• Hard candies
• Nuts
• Popcorn
• Chewy gum
• Raw hard vegetables

5. What age is the best age to get braces?

The ideal age for getting braces is 10-14 years old because this is when:

• Permanent teeth have erupted
• Jaw is still growing
• Bone density supports realignment

However, braces are effective for all ages.

6. How can I minimize the appearance of metal braces?

• Choose smaller brackets
• Use tooth-colored ligatures
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Consider ceramic or lingual braces
• Use orthodontic wax

7. How often do I need to visit the orthodontist for adjustments?

Every 6-8 weeks. These appointments involve:

• Checking tooth movement progress
• Adjusting wires and bands
• Addressing any discomfort

8. What happens after the metal braces are removed?

• Custom retainers provided
• Retainers worn as prescribed
• Follow-up appointments
• Monitoring teeth stability
• Preventing teeth from shifting back

Medically Reviewed

Last Reviewed by Clove Clinical Team on Nov 27, 2024 | Written by Dr. Shreya BDS, PGDCC.