Typodont wearing metal braces hidden smiles

Metal Braces

Timeless, Effective Orthodontic Treatment in Melville, NY

Metal braces are a longstanding symbol of orthodontics and boast a rich history of effective treatment. They are a popular option for patients of all ages, and can be used to address a wide array of bite issues and orthodontic concerns.

What Your First Visit May Look Like

When you come to visit us at Hidden Smiles Orthodontic Studio, expect to be greeted by our warm, friendly team. From there, you will meet Dr. Parikh where she will answer any questions you may have and discuss your concerns. She will also do a full assessment and evaluation of your teeth, jaw and bite. At this appointment, Dr. Parikh may take x-rays to get the entire picture of your smile to determine the complexity of your case. From there, she will present you with treatment options and prescribe a customized plan that is tailored to you and your unique situation.

Components Of Your Metal Braces

Your modern, comfortable braces are more comfortably designed than ever before. They are created from the following parts:

Brackets

The brackets are composed of a blend of stainless steel, nickel, and other metals and feature small hooks or doors for threading a wire. Dr. Parikh utilizes these components to attach the brackets to your teeth, typically using glue for direct placement.

Dr. Parikh uses special orthodontic glue to bond your brackets directly to the surface of your teeth, keeping them in place!

A thin wire connects the brackets, facilitating gradual tooth movement under Dr. Parikh’s expert guidance. Typically, this wire will connect all of your upper teeth and all of your lower teeth, but may vary depending on your personalized treatment plan.

These are small rubber bands that can be essential in correcting your bite. In these cases, elastics are positioned between upper and lower bracket hooks to realign the jaw.

Typodont wearing metal braces side view

Caring For Your Braces

It is crucial that you take proper care of your new metal braces to ensure your treatment plan goes exactly as Dr. Parikh prescribed. Here are some factors you will need to keep in mind while on the path towards perfecting your smile!

It is important that you thoroughly brush your teeth after every meal. Food tends to get stuck in those brackets and wires, so it is vital you remove any leftover particles to prevent plaque build up and cavities.

Use a floss threader to weave in and out of the wires. Do not try to use regular floss, as that can damage your braces.

You will have to avoid certain foods that can damage your braces such as hard candies, popcorn, nuts, caramel and toffee. Hard foods have the tendency to damage brackets or loosen your wires.

To really flush out any food particles, use a mouthwash with fluoride. This will help keep your braces clean and your breath fresh!

Metal Braces FAQs

Before bracket application, our team captures comprehensive photos and X-rays of your mouth, sometimes utilizing our iTero digital scanner for a precise 3D view. This data informs your customized treatment plan, dictating the strategic placement of brackets to achieve optimal tooth positioning.

After attaching your brackets, Dr. Parikh inserts the wire, incorporating bends to apply specific pressures for targeted tooth movements. This process, known as remodeling, entails minor alterations in the surrounding bone to facilitate alignment.

While traditional metal braces were once perceived as bulky and conspicuous, advancements in orthodontic technology have resulted in sleeker, more comfortable appliances. With smaller brackets and lighter wires, these braces minimize mouth irritation and offer improved aesthetics and comfort. Additionally, patients who choose this type of treatment can personalize their braces with colorful elastics to showcase their individuality.

Metal braces excel in correcting complex dental issues, often achieving faster results than alternative treatments. Their cost-effectiveness, strength, and durability maintain their status as a popular orthodontic option.

Treatment duration with metal braces typically spans 18 to 22 months on average, but varies depending on individual factors. Some patients complete treatment in as little as six months, while other, more complex cases can take up to three years. Despite the duration, patients will be able to see visible progress during their treatment, instilling confidence and fostering a positive treatment experience!

Metal Braces SMILE TRANSFORMATIONS

Before braces showing misaligned teeth and spacing issues in new york orthodontic patientAfter braces treatment showing improved alignment and confident smile in new york
Before orthodontic treatment showing early alignment issues in a pediatric patient in new yorkAfter orthodontic treatment showing improved alignment and smile development in a child patient
Before braces showing significant crowding and bite misalignment in new york orthodontic patientAfter braces treatment correcting crowding and bite alignment at hidden smiles orthodontics
Before braces showing crowded and misaligned teeth in a teen patient at hidden smiles orthodontics in new yorkAfter braces treatment showing straightened teeth and improved smile alignment at hidden smiles orthodontics new york
Before orthodontic treatment showing spacing and alignment issues in a young patient in new yorkAfter braces treatment correcting spacing and alignment for a balanced smile in new york
Before braces showing crowding and uneven teeth alignment at hidden smiles orthodontics new yorkAfter orthodontic treatment showing straight teeth and improved bite alignment in new york

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation in
Melville, New York Today!

meet the doctor

our treatments

your first visit

contact us