Traditional Braces – Heath & Mt. Vernon
A Time-Tested Way to Correct Misaligned Smiles
When it comes to straightening the teeth and fixing jaw-alignment problems, one of the most trusted and reliable treatments is traditional metal braces. They have been used for decades to correct a wide array of orthodontic issues for patients of all ages, and thanks to the latest advancements, they are now smaller, sleeker, and more effective than ever.
When you get traditional braces in Heath, Mt. Vernon, or Columbus, we won’t just consider the alignment of your teeth when formulating your treatment plan. We’ll also take into account the function of your bite as well as the proportions of your face. That way, you won’t just achieve a straighter smile, but a result that’s spectacular for both your health and overall appearance as well. Give us a call to schedule a consultation with us today.
Why Choose Wigal Orthodontics of Heath or Mt. Vernon for Traditional Braces?
- Two Esteemed Orthodontists with an Attention to Detail
- In-Network with Many Dental Insurance Companies
- We Use Cutting Edge Dental Technologies for Greater Efficiency
How Do Traditional Braces Work?
Traditional metal braces straighten the teeth using a system of metal brackets and wires. A bracket is applied to each tooth, and these are connected to a wire that runs along each row of teeth that will slowly guide them into the proper position over the course of treatment. This wire is held in place using a small elastic band on each bracket, and it will be regularly tightened every month. If a patient has a bite misalignment (such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite), larger elastic bands can be attached to the brackets to help correct this problem as well.
The treatment time for braces can vary depending on each patient’s particular situation, but the average treatment time is usually about 1-2 years. In most cases, they will move the teeth in two phases. During the first, the crowns of the teeth (the portion that shows above the gums) will be shifted, and that will be followed by moving the roots. This will straighten crooked teeth, close gaps, and make sure a person can eat, speak, and smile with ease.
What Orthodontic Issues Can Braces Fix?
Traditional braces are one of the most popular options for correcting misaligned teeth due to all of the orthodontic problems they can successfully address. Here are the most common ones that we run into.
Bite Misalignment
If the jaws don’t come together as they should, you find issues like overbites, underbites, crossbites, and other issues. This can distract from your appearance and make it more challenging for you to speak, eat, and move the jaw. Traditional braces, sometimes paired with elastics, are able to guide the jaws into alignment.
Crowded & Crooked Teeth
When the teeth become crooked, overlapping, uneven, or crowded, they can trap plaque and bacteria, making it easier to develop oral health problems, like cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. Traditional braces can be used to realign the teeth to be the ideal distance apart.
Gapped Teeth
Many people are self-conscious of gaps between their teeth. These gaps also put the teeth and gums at higher risk of becoming damaged. Traditional braces can guide your teeth closer together to give you a more uniform smile.
Caring for Your Braces
When you have braces, it is essential that you take some extra steps to care for your smile. Here are some tips that we recommend helping your treatment go as smoothly as possible.
- Brush twice, floss, and rinse with mouthwash every day.
- Use a threaded flosser or water flosser to clean beneath the wires.
- Stay away from foods that are hard or sticky.
- Don’t chew on hard objects or use your teeth as tools.
- See us for periodic checkups so we can monitor your treatment.
Clear/Ceramic Braces
One of the biggest concerns with traditional braces is their noticeable appearance, and this causes many patients to avoid getting the orthodontic care they need. Fortunately, we can offer a much more cosmetically minded, subtle option with clear/ceramic braces. Rather than metal, the brackets are made of a clear ceramic, and the wires and elastics are transparent or tooth-colored as well. What you get is the same reliability as braces without the concern for your appearance. Clear braces are barely noticeable on the teeth, assuring you’ll be able to smile with confidence during your treatment.
Learn More About Clear/Ceramic Braces
Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontics
Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontic treatment can help a child who still has some of their baby teeth and none of their permanent teeth yet. It can be used to not only straighten the baby teeth, but also assist in the development of the jaw, correct its alignment, and even help the permanent teeth come in straight as well. With this, a child’s permanent teeth will require much less treatment in the future, which will help shorten their overall treatment time and improve their overall experience.
Learn More About Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontics
Understanding the Cost of Traditional Braces
The cost of traditional braces varies from patient to patient, as there are a variety of factors that are considered, and every patient is different. During your consultation with us, we will go over the estimated cost of your treatment and payment options in detail, so you won’t run into any surprises. Until then, here are some things to take into account.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Traditional Braces
The cost of braces varies on multiple factors. Here are the most notable ones.
- Severity of Misalignment: The greater the distance that the teeth need to shift, the longer your treatment will take.
- Length of Treatment: In many cases, the longer you wear braces, the higher your treatment costs.
- Age: As an adult, your teeth are more firmly set in your jawbone than they were during childhood and adolescence. They take more time to move, so your treatment may cost slightly more.
- Number of Appointments: Throughout your treatment, braces need to be adjusted and tightened every two to eight weeks.
- Other Devices: Many patients with braces also need to wear other supplies, like space maintainers, palatal expanders, elastics, headgear, and retainers.
- Compliance with Treatment: For instance, if you have to wear rubber bands on your braces, but you don’t wear them enough, your teeth won’t move as expected, lengthening your treatment.
Professional Braces vs. “DIY” Braces: Which Costs More?
It can be tempting to try to save some money by opting for a “do-it-yourself” approach. There has been recent trend online of people trying to straighten their teeth using household items, like fishing line, earring backs, superglue, rubber bands, and more. These items may sound like they would do the job, but they are likely to cause some serious problems that will need to be addressed by an orthodontist anyway. This can spell disaster for your wallet!
Without the guidance of a dental professional, you should accidentally shift your teeth in the wrong direction, throw off your jaw alignment, and damage the soft tissues in your mouth. Ultimately, you could end up with some serious problems that need to be corrected. By seeing your dentist for traditional braces from the start, you can save your wallet!
Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces?
Some dental insurance plans include coverage for orthodontic treatment. It is more likely to be covered if you need them for an oral health issue, like a misaligned jaw or difficulty chewing. Additionally, some plans only cover braces for patients under the age of 18. If your insurance covers braces, you can typically expect up to 50% coverage. However, this can vary from plan to plan. You should check with your insurance provider ahead of time so that you know what you can expect.
Options for Making Braces Affordable
If you don’t have dental insurance, this doesn’t mean that you are completely out of luck. We are happy to accept payments through CareCredit – a third-party financing company that can split the cost of your treatment into manageable monthly installments with little to no interest. If you have any questions or need help applying, we would be happy to assist you!
Traditional Braces FAQs
Am I Too Old to Get Braces?
Absolutely not! There’s no age limit for improving your smile. Many adults choose traditional braces to correct long-standing alignment issues or bite problems, especially if they’re unhappy with the appearance of their smiles.
As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, braces can work effectively at any age. At Wigal Orthodontics, we create custom treatment plans for every patient, regardless of age. In fact, adult patients often see fantastic results because they’re more consistent with care and follow-up visits. So, whether you're 17 or 70, it's never too late to invest in a healthier, straightened smile.
Can I Get Traditional Braces on Just My Top or Bottom Teeth?
It is possible, but the practicality of it depends on your unique bite and alignment. In some cases, treating just one arch (top or bottom) can correct minor cosmetic concerns. However, for more complex bite issues, most people benefit from treating both arches at once. This ensures that your teeth are properly aligned at the end of your treatment and the results last.
When you arrive for your consultation, we’ll perform a detailed evaluation to decide what’s best for your smile and function. If single-arch treatment is an option, we’ll explain the benefits and risks so you can make an informed choice.
What Happens After You Get Your Braces Off?
Once your braces come off, the next step is retention. This means wearing a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Without it, your smile may slowly shift back, undoing the progress you've made.
Once your treatment is complete, we’ll provide a custom retainer and instructions on how and when to wear it. We might also schedule a few follow-up visits with you so we can monitor your results.
The day your braces come off should be an exciting event without worrying about more work ahead. But don’t think of wearing a retainer as more treatment—it’s just a precaution to keep your smile looking great for years to come!
How Long Do Traditional Braces Take?
Treatment times vary, but most patients wear traditional braces for 18 to 24 months. Some mild cases may take as little as a year, while complex issues might take up to three years. It all just depends on your needs.
At Wigal Orthodontics, we’ll give you a personalized estimate after your initial consultation. The length of your treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of your case, your age, and how closely you follow care instructions. Regular checkups and good hygiene habits can help you stay on track and even finish faster!
