Metal Braces

A Proven and Effective Orthodontic Treatment
Metal braces remain one of the most reliable orthodontic treatment options available. Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than in the past and provide precise control over tooth movement, making them a good option for treating a wide range of orthodontic concerns.
Benefits of Metal Braces
Metal braces offer several advantages:
- Effective for a wide range of orthodontic concerns
- Provide precise control over tooth movement
- Durable and dependable
- Suitable for patients of many ages
- Fixed in place throughout treatment
Self-Ligating Metal Braces
At Burke Family Orthodontics, we offer self-ligating metal braces. Unlike traditional braces that use elastic ties to hold the orthodontic wire in place, self-ligating braces use specialized brackets with a built-in mechanism that holds the wire in place. This design allows the orthodontic wire to move through the brackets as the teeth gradually shift into position.
Our orthodontists will determine whether self-ligating metal braces are appropriate for your treatment needs.
What to Expect with Metal Braces
After your braces are placed, you’ll visit our office regularly so we can monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. You may experience some temporary tenderness when your braces are first placed or following certain adjustments as your teeth respond to treatment.
Our team will provide instructions for caring for your braces, maintaining good oral hygiene, and protecting your brackets and wires throughout treatment.
Caring for Your Metal Braces
Good oral hygiene is especially important while wearing braces. Food and plaque can collect around brackets and wires, so careful brushing and flossing can help keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment. You’ll also need to avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that could damage your braces.
Following your orthodontist’s instructions and keeping scheduled appointments can help keep your treatment progressing as planned.
Playing Sports with Braces
Having braces doesn’t mean you have to stop participating in the sports you enjoy. If you participate in sports or activities where a mouthguard is recommended, it’s important to use a mouthguard that fits comfortably over braces.
Our team can recommend an orthodontic-friendly sports mouthguard for use with braces. A properly fitting mouthguard can help protect your teeth, lips, and braces during athletic activities.
How Long Will I Need Metal Braces?
Treatment time varies depending on your individual orthodontic needs, the complexity of your case, and how your teeth respond to treatment. Following your orthodontist’s instructions, taking good care of your braces, and keeping scheduled appointments can all help keep treatment on track.
At your consultation, we’ll discuss your recommended treatment plan and provide an estimated treatment timeline.
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
Every smile is different, and choosing the right orthodontic treatment starts with understanding your individual needs. Our orthodontists will evaluate your teeth and bite, discuss your treatment goals, and determine whether metal braces may be right for you.
Schedule a complimentary consultation with Burke Family Orthodontics to learn more about metal braces and your orthodontic treatment options.



