Traditional metal braces are the most common type, more comfortable today than ever, and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. Today’s metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable than those in the past. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile. Patients of all ages choose metal braces to help them achieve straight, beautiful smiles.
What Are Braces Made From?
Brackets
Brackets are attached to the teeth using a special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.
Archwire
The archwire is the thin metal wire that connects each bracket and puts pressure on the teeth to help guide them into place.
Rubber Bands (a.k.a. Ligature Elastic)
Elastics, or rubber bands, are the colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. Dr. Roeder will change the elastics at each appointment. Elastics may come in a variety of colors.