Metal Braces in Henderson: Affordable, Effective Orthodontic Treatment  

Popular Alternatives to Metal Braces

There are a few alternatives to metal braces that you may want to consider as well. Each offers their own strengths and weaknesses. If you’re unsure, you can always speak with your dentist about which option may be right for you.

Keep in mind, not all styles may work for your degree of misalignment.

Clear Braces (Ceramic Braces)

Clear ceramic braces are similar to metal braces in that they use brackets bonded to the teeth and connect with an archwire. However, the brackets are made of tooth-colored ceramic, which blends in better with the teeth and helps to hide the archwire.

These are good options for image conscious clients who still need the straightening power of traditional metal braces. They are, however, slightly less durable than metal and cost slightly more.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners have been a wonderful addition to braces options in recent years. They use a series of clear plastic trays to straighten the teeth. They are almost invisible, can be taken out to eat and for special occasions, and are very easy to clean.

Unfortunately, they don’t work in all cases of misalignment, working best in mild to medium cases. They are also often the costliest option.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are braces placed on the inside, or lingual, face of the teeth. They are nearly invisible but aren’t situated for all cases of misalignment. Some people also find they have a longer adjustment period than traditional braces that are attached to the front face of the teeth.

These braces are a great option for the image conscious but can have comfort issues for some and are more costly than traditional metal.

Why Metal Braces Often Win

Metal braces often win over their counterparts for their value, because they work in almost all cases, and they are the tried-and-true option. When you select traditional metal braces, you know exactly what you’ll be getting into, and almost everyone is a good candidate.

Traditional metal braces also are the most durable and have a range of customization options. For those who don’t mind the look of traditional metal braces, they are often the best option.

What’s Involved With Metal Braces Treatment?

At Absolute Dental, we strive to make the metal braces treatment process in Henderson as easy as possible. After an initial consultation, your braces will be fitted, then tightened every six to eight months or so. The whole process lasts about 12 months to two years, and after, you’ll be able to enjoy your smile for a lifetime.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Your treatment will begin with a comprehensive oral and orthodontic assessment. At your consultation, you’ll be able to ask your orthodontist any questions you may have, and you can discuss what treatment options and style of braces may be best for you, including traditional metal braces.

Customized Treatment Plan

Once initial decisions have been made and your oral health has been assessed, we’ll create a custom treatment plan just for you. This plan will outline goals and milestones and give you an idea of the timing for the entire process.

Bracket Bonding and Wire Placement

For the final part of the first phase of treatment, your brackets will be bonded to your teeth, and the wire will be placed between them. At this appointment, you’ll get to make your first decisions about customization. You may feel some discomfort afterword, but this usually goes away in a few hours to a few days.

Regular Adjustment Visits

After your brackets are installed, you’ll return for regular orthodontist visits, where your wires may be tightened, and your orthodontist will check your progress. You’ll also be able to ask any questions or express any concerns you might have. Again, you may experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, but this should subside shortly.

For most people, these appointments happen every four to eight weeks. Importantly, you should not stop seeing your regular dentist during this time and continue to see them every six months (or as directed).

Bracket Removal and Retention

After a period of approximately 12 months to two years (your treatment may be longer or shorter based on your unique situation), you’ll have the brackets and archwire removed. Rejoice! You’ll now be able to experience your new smile fully and enjoy the fruits of your treatment.

In most cases, you’ll receive a retainer to wear at night or at times during the day that will help keep your teeth in place and from moving further.

Special Considerations With Metal Braces

There are some potential challenges with traditional metal braces you’ll want to consider before deciding on this style. Keep in mind, many of these considerations are not unique to metal braces themselves, but to all braces in general.

Discomfort and Adjustment Period

With all braces, there can be some discomfort and a small adjustment period. Traditional metal braces are no different (nor generally any worse) than other styles.

Food Restrictions

With metal braces, you’ll have to watch what you eat more often. You should avoid particularly hard foods that could break your wires or brackets, such as chewing on ice or popcorn kernels. You should also avoid particularly sticky foods, like chewing gum and caramel.

Oral Hygiene Challenges

Overall, teeth with braces are slightly harder to clean than teeth without. You’ll have to pay some extra attention to brushing and flossing, but your orthodontist and dentist can give you helpful suggestions and tools to keep your teeth and braces clean.

Daily Activities and Sports

Compared to many other types of braces, traditional metal braces are rather durable, but you’ll still need to take particular care when playing sports or other kinetic activities. You may even want to consider a special mouth guard to protect your investment and braces from damage.

Visibility and Appearance

Let’s be honest, not everyone likes the appearance of braces. You should always remember, though, braces are temporary. Most patients find a few months of aesthetic discomfort for a lifetime of beauty and healthy teeth is preferable to the alternative.

Caring for Your Metal Braces

Caring for your metal braces is much like caring for your natural teeth — brush twice per day, floss in the evening, and remember to see your dentist every six months or as directed.

Flossing is often more difficult with braces, but there are many tools available to help with the process, including super flossers, water flossers, and waxed floss. Your dentist and orthodontist will make recommendations for what may be best for you and what you can try.

While caring for braces may be slightly more difficult than natural teeth, after the braces process, your teeth will actually be easier to clean than before, as straight teeth are easier to clean and offer fewer places for bacteria and plaque to hide.

Make an Appointment With an Orthodontist

If you or another member of your family is ready to take your smile and oral health to the next level, and you’re considering braces, make an appointment at Absolute Dental for a consultation. We offer a convenient Henderson location, as well as locations across Nevada for your convenience.

Patients love our commitment to patient-centered care, our excellent orthodontists, our commitment to emergency services, and our exceptional facilities. We think you will, too.

Make an appointment in Henderson now for a metal braces consultation