Traditional Braces

Metal braces aren’t the most attractive option for straightening teeth, but they are the most effective. What metal braces lack in aesthetic quality, they make up for in their ability to correct most bite and crowding issues. Forgoing prettier or more discreet options like clear aligners can improve treatment time & results. In more complicated or severe cases of misalignment, traditional braces may be the only orthodontic option that can do the job. Fortunately, recent advancements in orthodontics have also given us better-looking, more affordable & more effective metal braces.

If you are not familiar with the construction of metal braces, here is a quick overview:

A small square metal bracket is attached to the front of each tooth with special bonding cement. Some teeth, such as your back molars, may need a metal band that wraps around the whole tooth instead of a bracket. Wires are then placed onto the brackets, tightened & kept in place with coloured rubber bands called ligatures. You may also need separate removable rubber bands that move your jaw into place. At each appointment, the orthodontist will check your progress, adjust the wires & replace your ligatures.