Braces
Traditional metal braces are made of high quality stainless steel or titanium. The three components of your braces include brackets, archwires, and ligature elastics. Learn more about the roles each of these play in your braces journey below:
- 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 guide them into place.
- Ligature Elastic (also known as the “rubber bands”) — Elastics, or rubber bands, are the colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. These elastics will be changed at every appointment, so feel free to get creative with the colors when you come in!
Once placed on your teeth, braces continue to apply constant pressure to ensure your teeth continue to move into the proper position. Your archwires will be tightened at each appointment to keep this pressure in order to remain on schedule for the delivery of your dream smile. In addition to braces, some patients may need to wear rubber bands or headgear depending on your bite. Patients wearing braces may also notice their teeth feeling a little loose. This is normal and temporary; once the teeth are done moving, this feeling will go away. There is an important role for every type of movement, wire, and bend Dr Ammar is likely to make in order to achieve your picture perfect smile.
Learn More About Braces
Traditional metal braces are still the most popular, quickest, and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. We also offer many other options for you to explore at your consultation. Be sure to express your most desirable factors when looking into orthodontic treatment, and we will be more than happy to help you find the right fit for you.
Braces FAQ
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating teeth and jaw irregularities.
What is the best age to visit the orthodontist?
We recommend an orthodontist visit for as early as the age of 6-8 years old as this is the time when the teeth begins to emerge and can be guided accordingly towards proper alignment. This will help pre-empt any potential problems that a developing teeth may encounter.
How can I take care of my teeth if I'm wearing braces or a retainer?
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your braces and retainer will help keep your teeth healthy. You can still brush and floss your teeth even while you are wearing your braces. As for retainers, you can remove and clean them separately by gently brushing with toothpaste and washing them under lukewarm water.
What are braces?
Braces are dental tools used in orthodontics treatment that will aid in proper teeth alignment. This is most suitable for those with crooked teeth and overcrowded teeth.
Do braces hurt?
There is a mild discomfort that you may feel when you wear it for the first time and after regular brace tightening due to the adjustment and movement taking place in your teeth, but it should subside in a few days.
Alternatives to Traditional Metal Braces
Lingual Braces
Elite Orthodontics’ BRIUS® Lingual braces, a cutting-edge orthodontic solution, offer discrete treatment by adhering to the back of the teeth for a perfectly aligned smile.
Clear Braces
Elite Orthodontics offers clear braces, a visually appealing alternative to metal braces, designed with ceramic brackets for an effective and discreet orthodontic treatment.
Invisible Clear Aligners
Elite Orthodontics offers custom Invisible Clear Aligners. Our treatments deliver a clear, comfortable, and convenient solution for beautiful smile transformations across all ages.