Metal Braces in Long Beach, CA
If you want a tried-and-true way of fixing crooked teeth to create a uniform smile, traditional metal braces might just be the best option for you or your child. At Orthodontics of Long Beach, we can provide metal braces, along with some fashion colors for your kids, to enhance and beautify the smile.
What Are Metal Braces?
Metal braces have been the main go-to treatment for misaligned teeth for many decades. Today’s modern metal braces are actually smaller and more lightweight than the ones you might have grown up with. They also come with fashionable elastic bands in various colors, which makes them “fun” for kids to wear (unlike in yesteryear).
Metal braces use a small metal bracket, adhered to the teeth, which then connects to other teeth with wires. The wires are slowly tightened to draw the teeth together in the proper formation.
Why Are Braces Needed?
Metal braces are used for common malocclusions, i.e., misalignments, of the teeth and jaw. These include:
· Crooked teeth
· Gaps between teeth
· Teeth that are too close together
The spacing between the teeth can also affect the bite, so metal braces can help improve the bite, which can make it easier to chew food as well as to speak.
What Are the Benefits of Traditional Metal Braces?
Traditional metal braces may be unsightly to some, but kids today actually get excited about using different colored elastic bands to customize their braces. An alternative to metal braces is porcelain ceramic braces, which use clear or tooth-colored brackets, but they are a little more fragile and take longer to work.
InvisalignⓇ clear aligners is another option that tends to work better with older, more mature kids and teens as well as adults. This is because clear aligners are removable and can be easily lost or broken by a fickle or distracted child.
Thus, metal braces are a reliable way to fix misaligned teeth and they can be customized to the “look” your kids want.
What Is the Process for Getting Traditional Metal Braces?
First, we will schedule an initial consultation that includes a comprehensive oral examination of the oral cavity, including the jaw, bite, teeth, and gums. Digital images and X-rays will be taken to look at the structures of the teeth and jaw.
One the orthodontist has looked at the teeth and reviewed the information, a plan of treatment will be established. If braces are recommended, we will go over them with you and what is entailed. A second appointment will be scheduled to install the braces if they are necessary.
How Long Do You Need to Wear Metal Braces?
You or your child will need to wear braces for probably a year if not two to move the teeth into place. How long exactly depends on the level of correction that is needed. If you opt for porcelain ceramic braces, they will take a little longer because the wires cannot be tightened as much with ceramic brackets.
What Do Traditional Metal Braces Cost?
Traditional metal braces typically cost a few thousand dollars, and the total cost will depend on whether you need them on just one row or two rows of teeth. They are typically more affordable than porcelain ceramic braces, and your family dental insurance may cover some of the cost. Additionally, at Orthodontics of Long Beach, we offer affordable monthly payment plans through our generous financing options.
If you think you or your child might benefit from metal braces in Southern California, contact us today at Orthodontics of Long Beach for a consultation.
Ash Emrich 