Metal Braces
Proven Treatment
Not only are traditional metal braces incredibly common, but this is also probably what pops into most people’s heads when they think of the phrase “orthodontic treatment”.
That’s because metal braces have proven themselves durable and effective time and again as they faithfully correct a number of dental problems. Traditional braces continue to be the most popular treatment option for our patients in Newmarket, Aurora, Bradford, East Gwillimbury, and the neighboring communities.
What Are Braces Made of?
Brackets
Metal braces consist of durable brackets, which are made from surgical grade stainless steel
The brackets include hooks or doors through which a wire can be placed. The bracket can then be secured, either by closing the door or placing an elastic on top of the wire.
Glue
The glue is an adhesive that Dr. Miller uses when attaching brackets to your teeth. The glue is often used to attach the bracket directly to the tooth.
Wire
The wire runs between each bracket. During your visits, Dr. Miller will adjust the wire’s shape and curve to gradually ease your teeth in the right direction.
In many cases, the wire attaches each of the upper teeth or lower teeth together, but in other cases, we might cut the wire if we determine that it’s better in your case to connect only a few teeth.
Elastics
Elastics are an important part of correcting bad bites. Usually, the elastics are connected using a hook on an upper bracket and a hook on a lower bracket. It helps to pull the jaw in the appropriate direction to correct an overbite or an underbite.
Rubber bands might be used in a number of different scenarios, typically those in which we need to apply a bit of additional pressure on teeth or jaws to steer things in the right direction
What Are Braces Made of? Continued
Orthodontic Bands
Orthodontic bands refer to stainless steel rings attached to back teeth by dental bonding agents. Bands aren’t used in every case but are sometimes used to anchor braces or other orthodontic appliances.
Spacers
Spaces create space between teeth when needed, typically before we place bands on your teeth. These small elastic rings are also sometimes known as separators.
Elastic Ties/O-Rings/Ligatures/Colors
We sometimes use elastic ties to attach the archwire to your brackets. These “O-Rings” are less rigid than separators are and come in a wide variety of fun colors.