Metal Braces – Dr. Matteo Clinics

Metal braces are the most common type of braces for orthodontic patients. Today’s metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable than in the past. Patients of all ages choose metal braces to help them achieve straight, beautiful smiles.

Traditional metal braces are made of high quality stainless steel or titanium. The three main parts of your braces are:

BRACKETS – Brackets are attached to the teeth using special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.
ARCHWIRE – The archwire is the thin metal wire that connects each bracket and puts pressure on the teeth to help them guide into place.
LIGATURE ELASTIC (RUBBER BANDS) – Elastics, or rubberbands, are colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. Our specialist will change the elastics at each appointment and you may choose different colors.

Once placed on your teeth, braces place constant pressure on your teeth, and the force of the pressure helps move teeth into proper position. At each appointment, our specialist my lighten the archwires. In addition to braces, some of our patients may need to wear rubber bands or headgear. Patients wearing braces may notice their teeth feeling a little loose. This is normal and temporary. Once teeth are done moving this feeling will go away.

Traditional metal braces are still the most popular, quickest, and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. Our specialist will help you determine what treatment is best for your individual case.