Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of braces patients use to straighten their teeth today. At Dr. Scott Ralph Orthodontics in Liberty Lakes and Spokane, we can provide you with a full set of metal braces to give you the smile you have always wanted.

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces are an orthodontic appliance that corrects teeth and jaw misalignments, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, spaces between teeth, crookedness, and overcrowding. Brackets made of stainless steel or titanium are bonded to the front of each tooth using a dental adhesive. An archwire anchors the brackets and serves as the mechanism Dr. Ralph tightens in order to put pressure on the teeth to shift them into correct alignment.

Types Of Metal Braces

There are two main types of metal braces that we use to treat patients.

• Traditional

Traditional metal braces are no longer the clunky uncomfortable braces that patients had to wear decades ago. They now feature smaller brackets so patients can show more of their teeth and less of their hardware while smiling for the camera.

Again, stainless steel or titanium are the materials traditional braces are usually made of, making them stronger and more durable than other types of braces. Patients also have the option of customizing the color of their elastic bands, adding their own style to their treatment. Elastic bands secure the archwire to the brackets.

• Self-Ligating

Self-ligating braces are a technological innovation that has truly changed the game of orthodontics. They work the same way as traditional braces and they also look the same and are made of the same materials. However, the difference is how the archwire anchors to the brackets. Instead of elastic bands, each bracket has a special door built in to clip the wire into place.

This innovation allows Dr. Ralph to more easily access and tighten the wire, thus reducing the amount of time patients spend in the dentist’s chair during appointments.

Do Metal Braces Work Faster?

In some cases, metal braces can work faster, but it really depends on the severity of your misalignment and whether you want to use a device such as Propel to stimulate your teeth into shifting more quickly.

Are Metal Braces Uncomfortable?

There will be an initial period of discomfort and soreness during the beginning of your braces treatment. This is normal and can be alleviated by over-the-counter pain medication, cold compresses, warm salt water rinses, and a softer diet.

How Long Do Metal Braces Take?

The length of treatment generally takes 12-18 months to complete. Again, several factors come into play that will determine how much time you spend wearing your braces. The severity of your misalignment, the condition of your teeth, how well your teeth respond to treatment, and how well you take care of your teeth and braces all come into play.

How Do You Clean Metal Braces?

Cleaning metal braces is as simple as adhering to your normal dental care routine. You cannot remove braces, so cleaning can be more complicated. Brush your teeth like normal, but add an interdental toothbrush to clean the harder-to-reach nooks and crannies. Use a floss threader to help you clean between your teeth. Be sure to follow the dietary guidelines provided by your dentist to prevent food from getting stuck in your hardware.

What Is The Cost Of Metal Braces?

The cost of traditional metal braces ranges from $3,500 on the low end to $7,000-$8,000 on the high end. Self-ligating braces cost generally the same as well. The average cost of braces in Washington state is between $2,000 and $7,000. Dr. Scott Ralph Orthodontics offers patients affordable monthly payment plans. We also accept most dental insurance providers and all major credit cards.

Contact Dr. Scott Ralph Orthodontics Today!

Dr. Scott Ralph is currently accepting new patients. If you need or want metal braces to fix your smile, please contact our office in South Hill or Liberty Lake at 509-892-9284 today!