When it comes to orthodontic care, metal braces are a tried-and-tested solution. With a reputation for being strong and effective, these braces are a great choice for correcting a wide range of dental alignment issues.

As a specialist orthodontist in Hawthorn, Dr. Carolyn Ng, offers metal braces to help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles with confidence

How Do Metal Braces Work?

Metal braces work by using a system of brackets, wires, and elastic bands to gently shift teeth into their ideal positions over time. Here’s a breakdown of each component:

Bracket

Brackets are small, square attachments made from stainless steel. There brackets are attached to the front surfaces of teeth with dental adhesive and act as anchors for the archwires. Each bracket has a slot where the archwire fits, allowing precise control over the movement of your teeth.

Archwire

The wire that connects all the brackets together is known as the archwire. This wire is passed through the brackets and periodically adjusted by the orthodontist to create the required tension and pressure to move the teeth. The arch wire can be made of different materials, including stainless steel or nickel-titanium, with the latter being more flexible and responsive to body heat.

Accessory components

Along with the bracket and archwire, accessory components are used which can include modules, ligature wires, springs, coils, loops and elastics all of which play a part in helping the bracket and wire do their job.

Wearing Metal Braces

The process of wearing metal braces in Hawthorn includes regular visits to your orthodontist, typically every 4–6 weeks. During these appointments, the archwire is adjusted or replaced, and elastic bands are changed. These adjustments allow for continuous, controlled tooth movement, ultimately leading to a perfectly aligned smile.

Benefits of Metal Braces

While metal braces are more noticeable than other options, they remain a top choice due to their proven effectiveness. Here are some advantages

• Durability: Stainless steel brackets and wires can handle even complex orthodontic cases.
• Precision: Metal braces allow for highly controlled tooth movement, ensuring optimal results.
• Affordability: Compared to other options like ceramic braces or clear aligners, metal braces are often more cost-effective

Modern designs have made metal braces smaller, more comfortable, and less invasive than earlier versions, making them a practical choice for patients of all ages.

Considerations

While metal braces are highly effective, there are a few things to bear in mind:

• Visibility: Metal braces are more noticeable than other options like ceramic braces or clear aligners. However, modern designs have made them smaller and more comfortable.
• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid hard or sticky foods to prevent damage to the brackets or wires.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential to avoid plaque build-up around the brackets.

Despite their visibility, metal braces remain a top choice for orthodontic treatment due to their strength, reliability, and ability to address even the most complex dental issues.