Metal Braces Reading, MA

These are Not Your Parent’s Braces

When people think of braces, they typically imagine the clunky metal braces from decades ago. While metal braces are still in use, they are much different than those worn in the past. Modern metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable, making them a great choice for perfecting your smile.

As a bonus, they are also more effective than they used to be, so you get your perfect smile much faster!

What are Metal Braces Made of?

The metal used to manufacture metal braces is high quality stainless steel or titanium. Both metals exhibit superior strength and durability and provide high biocompatibility — that is, they are resistant to corrosion and they don’t irritate the delicate tissues of the mouth’s interior.

Metal brackets are applied to the teeth with a special glue that bonds them to the tooth’s surface and connected with an archwire that works to apply gentle force to move the teeth into alignment. The wire is held to the braces using elastic ties, which come in a range of colors to choose from so you can change the look of your braces at each orthodontic appointment.

To keep your teeth moving properly, your orthodontist will adjust the wire every 4 to 8 weeks.

What Are the Benefits of Metal Braces?

Metal braces are great for patients who are forgetful because, unlike aligners such as Invisalign, they are not removable and you don’t have to remember to wear them — or worry about losing them. Here are some other good reasons to choose metal braces:

• Very efficient at moving teeth into place
• No changes in speech as your mouth “gets used to” an appliance
• The need for patient compliance is reduced
• Most affordable option
• Most durable
• Colored bands make wearing fun

However, metal braces do require a high level of oral hygiene to keep them properly clean.

How Metal Braces Work

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, your orthodontist may tighten the archwires. In addition to braces, some 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 the teeth are done moving this feeling will go away.

Ready for a New Smile?

At Reading Orthodontics, we offer the latest in metal braces to help our patients achieve their best smile quickly and cost-effectively. If you are ready to enhance your smile, schedule an appointment with our office and we will help you determine if metal braces are the right choice for your smile goals.