Braces
Reliable, Durable & Affordable
Traditional braces have been around for a very long time, and are probably the most recognizable symbol of orthodontics. Metal braces have a well-established history of successful treatment and are incredibly efficient at correcting oral issues ranging from mild to complex.
How Braces Work
Before applying the brackets, Dr. Kaplan and our team will collect photos and X-rays of your mouth. Sometimes we'll use our iTero Element scanner to scan each of your teeth and the layout of your gums and mouth. If necessary, this process takes 5 minutes and provides an extremely accurate 3D view of your mouth.
Once the records and optional scan are complete, the data will be used to help formulate a customized treatment plan, including how each tooth needs to be moved in order to get it in the best possible position. We will then decide how to place the brackets based on this information.
For example, if you have some teeth that need to be tilted, the positioning of those brackets will be different than the positioning of brackets for teeth that need to be turned.
Once the brackets have been attached, the wire will be inserted. Bends in the wire are used to provide different types of pressure on different teeth. A bend in the wire is how most orthodontists encourage specific and precise movements.
This process is only able to occur if constant pressure is put on the tooth. As bone is resorbed on one side and then deposited on the other side, the tooth can move. Once the pressure stops - like when we remove your braces - the tooth will begin to settle into its new position.
Most teeth will start to drift back to their old positions over time. This is why patients are given retainers. When worn as directed, a retainer will help keep teeth in their new, improved positions and prevent this natural drifting.
Modern Metal Braces
In the past, metal braces had a reputation for being a bit awkward and obvious, but modern orthodontics has produced versions that are smaller, less conspicuous, and more comfortable than ever. Sleeker brackets and lighter wires improve the appearance and feel of these braces, and help keep irritation in the mouth to a minimum.
Traditional metal braces also come with a fun new twist without any extra cost - you can customize them with pops of color. The elastics that fit around brackets come in a wide variety of colors, and let you showcase your personality whenever you want. Pick your favorite color combination, the colors of your favorite sports team, even your school colors.
Braces are incredibly efficient at fixing complex tooth issues and can work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might, potentially shortening your treatment time. They don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments might, often making metal braces a cost-effective option.
The strength, durability, and affordability of traditional metal braces keep them the top treatment for orthodontic patients, year after year.
Treatment Length
Every mouth is different, and every patient responds to treatment in their own way, so treatment time with metal braces will vary on a case-by-case. The average time spent in metal braces tends to be around 18 to 22 months, but could be shorter or longer, depending on the individual.
We have patients in braces for as little as six months, and for complex issues, it can take over three years to complete the braces process. Remember, though, that with metal braces, signs of improvement can often be seen in just a short period of time, which can help give you confidence during the treatment process.
Champagne Braces
Iconix® Aesthetic Braces
Iconix stainless steel champagne colored brackets truly offer the best of both worlds - the durability of stainless steel and the aesthetics of "white" gold. A unique proprietary process ensures these brackets will stay champagne for the duration of treatment. When matched with gold wire and clear ligatures, Iconix offers a complete patient pleasing cosmetic system that requires literally no sacrifice on your part.
