What are metal braces?

Metal braces are designed to move the teeth by putting controlled, continuous pressure on them. Metal braces consist of metal brackets that are strung together on wires. Today’s metal braces are much smaller than those that were used years ago. In addition, the archwires used with metal braces are designed to react to your body’s natural heat, which helps your teeth move into place quickly and with less discomfort.

Are metal braces better?

Metal braces are the least expensive teeth-straightening option available and, when compared to the other kinds of braces that are available, they also offer the fastest results.

A fun aspect of wearing metal braces is the ability to personalize your smile with colored, elastic bands. There are a lot of different colors, so you can choose elastics to represent your school colors, an upcoming holiday, or your favorite sports team.

What is a typical treatment like with metal braces?

The initial consultation

When you arrive at Geneseo Orthodontics, you will be asked to fill out several forms. Once you enter the treatment room, Dr. Mike will ask you questions about how it feels when you chew, bite down, and swallow. He will examine the inside of your mouth, from various angles. During this exam, Dr. Mike takes notes. After he examines your mouth, he may order X-rays and decide to take some photos of your teeth.

After reviewing your X-rays and considering the results of your examination, he can determine your diagnosis and then create a customized treatment plan.

At this point, Dr. Mike sits down with you to discuss your orthodontic health and to recommend the treatment he believes will provide you with the best results. Please feel free to ask questions.

Treatment time

The average orthodontic treatment time ranges from 16-18 months, however, some patients will need to wear their braces longer. The length of time you wear your braces depends on the complexity of the orthodontic issue being addressed. Dr. Mike makes sure that his patients’ orthodontic treatments are as comfortable and painless as possible.

Getting your braces

This procedure takes an hour to an hour and a half. Before applying your braces, your teeth are cleaned and primed. This step helps the adhesives that are used when applying the brackets stick to the teeth. Dr. Mike will then attach brackets to the fronts of your teeth, curing them with ultraviolet light.

After all the brackets are applied, your wires are placed through the brackets. You may also be able to choose colored elastic ligatures at this time. These colorful elastic ligatures keep your wires in place and make a fashion statement.

Initially, you will experience slight discomfort, however, this discomfort subsides once you get used to wearing your new braces.

Adjustment appointments

Adjustment appointments are quick, only taking from 15-20 minutes. These appointments are scheduled every six weeks. During an adjustment appointment, Dr. Mike evaluates the movement of your teeth, checks for any problems, and tightens your wires. Tightening these wires ensures that your teeth continue to move into their desired positions, with minimal discomfort.

How much do metal braces cost?

Each patient is unique, which makes it impossible to provide an estimate for treatment without performing an initial consultation. After your consultation, Dr. Mike discusses your treatment options with you, including how much treatment with metal braces will cost.

Insurance

If you have dental insurance, braces are probably covered, which reduces the amount you pay.

Do metal braces hurt?

Initially, you will experience some discomfort because your teeth aren’t used to the pressure that is being placed on them, however, this discomfort subsides rather quickly. Your mouth will adjust to your braces and as time passes, you may not even notice them anymore. Following your adjustments, since added pressure is being placed on your teeth, you will have some discomfort.

Easing discomfort

While your teeth adjust to the new pressure, eat soft foods, and take over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen.

What are Radiance braces?

Radiance braces consist of clear brackets, which means they are less noticeable than metal braces. Radiance brackets are made of crystal, they resist stains and are extremely durable.

What is the typical treatment length with Radiance braces?

The typical treatment time with Radiance braces is 16-18 months. However, depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issue being addressed, treatment time can increase.

Do Radiance braces hurt?

Just as with metal braces, discomfort is likely directly after Dr. Mike applies the braces and then every six weeks, following adjustments. This discomfort subsides within a day or two.

How much do Radiance braces cost?

Determining the cost of Radiance braces can only be accomplished following an evaluation.

Dental insurance

Dental insurance companies usually cover teeth-straightening procedures, including Radiance braces. Be sure to ask about your coverage for teeth-straightening procedures. That way you know ahead of time how much your insurance will cover.

Are Radiance braces better?

There are benefits to choosing Radiance braces over metal braces. Radiance braces are discreet and more resistant to stains than their metal counterparts, however, whether Radiance braces are the best teeth-straightening option for you depends on your individual needs.

At Geneseo Orthodontics, we offer a variety of teeth-straightening options. Once Dr. Mike determines your diagnosis, he recommends the teeth-straightening options that will provide you with the best results. Contact Geneseo Orthodontics today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mike.