What Are Metal Braces?
Metal braces are the type of braces most people think of when they hear the word “braces”. They are a set of brackets and wires that apply pressure to the teeth to move them very gradually through the matrix of the jaw. You might be surprised to learn that your jaw bone is not solid like your other bones, but rather made of a dense substance that allows the teeth to move through it, much like drawing your finger through sand. The material then rebuilds behind the root of the tooth.
Metal braces can be used in conjunction with a number of different appliances that can attach to tubes on the brackets to help correct significant jaw alignment issues. These can include headgear and reverse pull headgear. Other treatment plans may use elastics to connect to posts on your brackets to pull your jaws into proper alignment.
Metal braces are one type of braces. Other types include ceramic braces which have brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic material, and the clear plastic trays used in treatments like Invisalign.
What To Know About Metal Braces
Metal braces are made of a series of small metal brackets that are applied to either the front or the back of the teeth. If they are applied to the back of the teeth, they are called lingual braces. Not every orthodontist is skilled enough to apply these, so if they are something you want to consider, you should ask your orthodontist near me if they are able to treat you with lingual braces. These are advantageous because they are completely hidden so no one will see your orthodontic treatment at all.
Braces of yesteryear were big bands that went around every tooth, but modern materials make it possible for you to get lightweight brackets and wires that are made from space age metals. These new materials are lighter and work with the heat of your mouth to provide constant tension. They work faster than the older styles and may even shorten your overall treatment time.
The wires are usually held in place by elastics, which may be applied individually or in a chain, depending on what you need. Because these elastics come in every color of the rainbow, they can give you a chance to express your personality by changing colors or you can stick with one color theme. Some braces, called self-ligating, use a clip on the brackets to hold the wires instead. These allow for the teeth to move and adjust without the wire having as much friction with the elastics.
What Are The Advantages Of Having Metal Braces?
Metal braces near me have one distinct advantage over any other type of braces and that is the speed at which they work. They are on the teeth and working all the time so they are generally considered to be the primary solution for people looking to get their orthodontic work done fast.
They have another advantage and that is the metal braces cost near me. They are the least expensive option, usually running between $3,000 and $7,000. Your location and treatment plan will determine the exact cost.
Are Metal Braces Painful?
Braces can be painful, especially when they are first put on and after each tightening appointment. This is when they are applying the most tension. You are likely to experience some discomfort in your jaw, or your teeth might feel “itchy” as they start to move. This can be eased using over the counter pain relievers, or you can apply ice packs gently to your jaw.
The other issue you might have with metal braces is that the brackets can be rough and they can rub against the inside of the cheeks. If you do have this happen, you can ask your orthodontist for some wax to apply to the brackets and help make them feel smoother. Over time, your cheeks will get slightly tougher and you probably will not experience much more discomfort as you go through your treatment.
How Are Metal Braces Put On?
Metal braces near me are put on in one of two ways. If you have bands that need to go around your molars to use as anchors for elastics or for other appliances, you will likely receive some spacers a few weeks before your actual appointment to get the braces put on. They help create a little more room between the teeth to allow for the bands to fit properly. The bands are then slid over the tooth and held with some adhesive.
The brackets themselves are affixed to the teeth with a dental-safe adhesive. Once they are set, the metal arch wire is run through them to connect all of the teeth, and the excess is clipped off at the back. The archwire is held in place by either elastics or, if you went with self-ligating braces, little clips that snap down. The elastics are changed at every tightening appointment, so you can change colors if you wish.
How Much Do Metal Braces Cost With Insurance?
Braces cost with insurance will depend upon the plan you have and what kind of coverage you have. Many dental plans that offer orthodontic coverage will cover teens and kids, but adults might only have 50% coverage, or even less in some cases. Medically necessary metal braces for adults may have more coverage than cosmetic ones do. The best way to know for sure is to ask your orthodontist for a coverage review. They will be happy to check your plan and to see what types of affordable metal braces near me are included.
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