What Are Traditional Metal Braces?
Traditional metal braces consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets that are carefully bonded to each tooth, connected together by a thin archwire. This archwire applies gentle, continuous pressure over time, guiding your teeth safely into their ideal positions. Today’s metal braces are a far cry from the bulky designs of decades ago. They feature smoother edges, a sleeker build, and less bulk, reducing irritation to your cheeks and gums. Plus, they offer a fun opportunity for self-expression—patients can customize their braces at every appointment with colorful elastic bands (o-rings) to match their personality, school colors, or upcoming holidays.
Why Choose Traditional Metal Braces?
While there are many modern orthodontic options available today, traditional metal braces remain incredibly popular for several clear reasons. Dr. Kendrick evaluates each patient's unique dental structure to determine if they are the most effective choice. They are typically recommended because:
For specific structural rotations and complex adjustments, metal brackets often achieve results more efficiently.
With more than 45 years of experience, board-certified orthodontist Dr. James Kendrick uses traditional metal braces to treat a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including:
- They can correct many orthodontic issues, from simple crowding to more complex bite misalignments.
- Made from strong stainless steel, metal braces are durable and reliable during treatment.
- Unlike removable aligners, braces stay attached to your teeth 24/7, meaning you don't have to worry about losing them or forgetting to wear them.
- Metal braces are generally the most affordable and budget-friendly orthodontic treatment available.
Common Orthodontic Problems Treated with Metal Braces
- Crowding — when there is not enough room in the jaw for teeth to fit naturally.
- Spacing — closing wide or uneven spaces between teeth.
- Overbite and underbite — correcting bite problems where the upper and lower teeth do not line up properly.
- Crossbite and open bite — helping the teeth meet correctly for better chewing, function, and long-term tooth protection.
How Your Metal Braces Journey Works
Dr. Kendrick carefully cleans and prepares your teeth before safely bonding the metal brackets. The archwire is then threaded through and secured with tiny bands. This first visit is usually quick and comfortable.
Routine Adjustments
Every 6 to 8 weeks, you will visit our Kissimmee office for brief adjustments. Dr. Kendrick will check your progress, tighten or replace the archwire to keep teeth moving, and let you pick fresh new colors.
Once your teeth are perfectly aligned, the braces are safely removed to reveal your brand new smile! We will then custom-craft a retainer to ensure your teeth stay securely in their gorgeous new positions permanently.
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Complete Comfort and Care
Modern metal braces are designed with rounded corners to feel smooth against your lips and cheeks. Your teeth may feel slightly tender for a few days after an adjustment, but this is temporary. Our team gives you clear instructions and orthodontic wax to help you adjust to braces as comfortably as possible.
Personalized and Reliable Results
At Kendrick Orthodontics, we believe no two smiles are identical. Dr. Kendrick customizes the exact position of every bracket based on advanced imaging to give you a smile that balances perfectly with your unique facial features. Metal braces give us the absolute highest level of physical control over tooth movement, ensuring your finished smile is stable, functional, and beautiful.
Orthodontic FAQs
Have questions about metal braces? Here are a few common questions we hear from patients and parents.
Yes. Metal braces are still one of the most reliable orthodontic options for correcting crowded teeth, spacing, and bite problems.
Your teeth may feel sore for a few days after braces are placed or adjusted, but this is temporary and usually easy to manage.
Most patients visit our Kissimmee office every 6 to 8 weeks so Dr. Kendrick can check progress and adjust the braces.
Yes. Metal braces can be a strong option for children, teens, and adults who need dependable orthodontic correction.
Many insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, but coverage varies by plan. Our team can review your benefits and explain your payment options, including no-interest monthly plans.
Dr. Kendrick will evaluate your teeth, bite, and jaw development and give you a clear, honest recommendation.
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