What are Metal Braces?

At Haven Dental in Jersey City, NJ, we understand that as a parent, you want the best for your child’s health, including their dental health. One of the most common orthodontic treatments for children is metal braces, which have been a trusted solution for correcting misaligned teeth for decades. While there are various orthodontic options available today, metal braces remain one of the most effective and reliable methods for straightening teeth and ensuring a healthy, beautiful smile.

Metal braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into the correct position. This treatment is commonly recommended for children with a variety of dental issues, including:

Crowded Teeth: When there isn’t enough space in your child’s mouth for all their teeth, they can become crowded and overlap. Metal braces help to align teeth properly, creating enough space for each tooth to sit comfortably.
Overbite, Underbite, and Crossbite: Braces can correct bite issues where the upper and lower teeth do not align properly. These problems can cause difficulty in chewing, speaking, and even breathing, so early treatment is important.
Gaps Between Teeth: Metal braces are also effective at closing gaps between teeth, which can result from missing teeth or teeth that are smaller than the available space.
Jaw Alignment: Beyond straightening teeth, braces can help with the alignment of the jaw, preventing future problems with jaw pain or dysfunction.

Here’s how metal braces work:

Brackets: Small metal brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth. These brackets are the anchors for the rest of the orthodontic system.
Archwires: A thin metal wire, known as an archwire, runs through the brackets and applies gentle pressure to the teeth. Over time, this pressure moves the teeth into the desired position.
Bands and Elastics: Small rubber bands, known as elastics, may be used to connect the brackets to the archwire, helping to adjust the teeth and bite more precisely.

The process of moving teeth with braces is gradual, and treatment typically lasts between one to three years, depending on the complexity of the case.

How Haven Dental can help

At Haven Dental, we are committed to providing top-quality orthodontic care in a supportive and caring environment. Here’s how we can help guide your child through their journey with metal braces:

Comprehensive Assessment: Before recommending braces, our team conducts a thorough evaluation of your child’s teeth, jaw, and overall oral health. We use advanced diagnostic tools, such as digital X-rays and 3D imaging, to create a detailed treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Every child is unique, and so is their orthodontic treatment. We take the time to explain the process, answer any questions you or your child may have, and develop a customized plan that addresses all of their dental concerns. Our goal is to ensure that your child receives the best possible care with the least amount of discomfort.
Comfortable and Caring Environment: We understand that getting braces can be an intimidating experience for children. At Haven Dental, we prioritize your child’s comfort, offering a welcoming and friendly environment. Our experienced team is skilled at working with children, making sure they feel at ease during each visit.
Ongoing Support and Adjustments: Once the braces are in place, your child will need regular check-ups to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. We schedule these appointments to fit your family’s busy life and ensure that your child’s treatment stays on track.
Education and Hygiene Guidance: Proper oral hygiene is crucial when wearing braces. Our team will provide your child with detailed instructions on how to care for their braces, including tips on brushing, flossing, and maintaining a braces-friendly diet. We also offer advice on how to handle any issues that may arise, such as discomfort from the braces or broken brackets.
Affordable and Flexible Payment Options: We believe that every child deserves a healthy, beautiful smile, and we strive to make orthodontic care accessible to all families. At Haven Dental, we offer flexible payment plans and work with you to find a solution that fits your budget.

At Haven Dental, our goal is to ensure that your child’s experience with metal braces is positive, comfortable, and effective. We are here to support you and your child every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the day the braces come off and reveal a confident, radiant smile. If you think your child may need braces or if you have any questions about our orthodontic services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can help your child achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they deserve.