Orthodontics

 If you look back over the centuries of dental and orthodontic technologies, you’ll note that metal braces were actually the first type of orthodontic treatment to be developed. It’s a testament to their efficacy that they remain popular today. While many people are familiar with the general idea of metal braces, however, most are not aware of just how much their technology has changed since it was first developed. In fact, the technology behind braces has improved by leaps and bounds just within the past decade!

Braces consist of two components: brackets and wires. Research and development has led to changes in both parts in recent years, making braces more comfortable, as well as more aesthetic.

The low-profile brackets in today’s metal braces are smaller and thinner, making them far less visible on the teeth, as well as more comfortable on the cheeks and lips. In some cases, the brackets have clips on them that hold the wires, removing the need for colored elastic bands. That being said, some patients (particularly children and teens) still enjoy being able to choose the colors of their bands each month and thus may prefer brackets designed to use elastic bands.

In addition to improvements with brackets, the heat-activated arch wires in braces have been made possible by advances in material science. These wires are pliable when cold, but they slowly spring back into their original form when exposed to body heat. The result is a wire that increases the tension on the teeth slowly after placement, rather than all at once, making the days after placement of a new wire far more comfortable.

Braces are able to move teeth very efficiently, and they allow our oceanside orthodontist to control the forces applied to the teeth with incredible precision. This allows virtually any type of orthodontic condition to be treatable with braces. It also means that braces provide the fastest possible treatment for a number of conditions. Of course, keep in mind that braces do not have to be metal braces to have this advantage; clear braces (with brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic) are also a highly efficient mode of treatment.



Metal braces are ultimately the most economical form of orthodontic treatment. For those patients concerned about cost, metal braces are the most accessible way to achieve your perfect smile.

While braces do move teeth efficiently, their treatment still takes an average of one to two years for most patients. You’ll need to stay committed to the idea of braces throughout this time. If you feel that this could be difficult for you, then you should consider a more discreet form of orthodontic treatment, such as clear braces or Invisalign. For patients who are strongly motivated by the desire for that perfect smile, however, staying committed to their metal braces treatment might seem easy.