Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are still the most popular orthodontic treatment—and for good reason. They’re durable, cost-effective, and can effectively treat almost any orthodontic condition. Additionally, modern metal braces of today are much smaller and more comfortable than braces of the past.
When you schedule a consultation at Alamo City Orthodontics, Dr. Roy Gonzalez, Jr. can help answer your questions about orthodontics, work with your insurance provider and offer a transparent cost of traditional braces, and help you achieve a straighter smile.
Traditional Braces Defined
When you think of braces, you probably think of traditional metal braces. This style of braces consists of brackets, wires, and elastic bands. With traditional braces, stainless steel brackets are affixed to the teeth with a sticky, specialized dental cement dotted in the center of the tooth.
Then, wires are carefully threaded through the slots in the brackets. These wires deliver constant yet gentle pressure on the teeth, which moves the teeth in the desired direction. Typically, the wires are held to the brackets with “ligatures” or “O-rings, which are tiny rubber bands.
The Treatment Process
At your first appointment, Dr. Gonzalez will take x-rays, examine your smile, and discuss your health history to guide treatment decisions. If our orthodontist deems traditional braces as the most appropriate orthodontic treatment for your situation, he will go over metal braces cost, duration of treatment, and other treatment expectations.
When you come in for your traditional braces fitting, our team will polish, condition, air-dry, and prime your teeth for bracket placement. Next, dental cement is applied to the enamel in the exact position the brackets need, and any excess is gently removed. Afterward, Dr. Gonzalez uses high-intensity light to bond the brackets directly to the teeth. Once the brackets are placed, the dental arch wires are laced and put in place.
You’ll need to regularly visit the orthodontist’s office for adjustments throughout the orthodontic process. The point of these periodic appointments is to ensure that the teeth are continuing on the path to perfect alignment. At each appointment, the wires and elastic bands are removed and replaced.
Eventually, the conclusion of traditional braces treatment is signified by the removal and repairing any damaged enamel. Also, we strongly suggest wearing retainers after orthodontic treatment to ensure that the teeth do not drift back to their original position.
FAQ
- Traditional braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which is better?
Both treatments can effectively straighten teeth, but they have advantages and disadvantages. Some advantages traditional braces have over clear aligners is that braces can handle most orthodontic cases and can affectively straighten teeth for patients of all ages.
- Do traditional braces hurt?
With all orthodontic treatments, it’s normal to feel mild discomfort. Most patients feel tightness or soreness in their mouth shortly after each orthodontist appointment, which can last for a few hours to several days. Sometimes, wires and brackets can irritate the soft tissues in the mouth. Thankfully, over-the-counter pain medication and dental wax can typically mitigate this discomfort.
Meet with the Best Orthodontist Near Alamo Heights, Castle Hills, and the San Antonio Area
Metal braces are an excellent option for almost anyone seeking orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about your first appointment, orthodontic treatments, or candidacy, contact us at (210) 344-9295 or message Alamo City Orthodontics online. A staff member will be happy to help you get the answers you need.
Dr. Gonzalez and his team hope this information is helpful to you! We look forward to answering any questions and helping you stay on track to achieve the smile of your dreams.
