Metal braces

Lake Jackson braces

Traditional braces are a tried and true treatment. That’s why they’re the most recognizable symbol of orthodontics in Lake Jackson and the surrounding area! These orthodontic workhorses have a long history of successful treatment and are great at correcting many oral issues, from simple to complex.

At Lake Jackson Orthodontics, metal braces continue to be the top orthodontic treatment option for patients of all ages.

All about Lake Jackson braces

Traditional braces work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might, potentially shortening your treatment time! Metal braces are also a cost-effective option since they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that many newer treatments do. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. Now you can choose brackets that are clear or metallic colors. You can even choose the color of ties that hold the wire in the brackets!

Brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth and connect to one another by an archwire, helping to guide your teeth where Dr. McGrory wants them to move. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.

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What are braces made of?

  • Brackets

    The brackets Dr. McGrory uses are durable and made from a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other metals. Brackets have little hooks or doors where Dr. McGrory will thread a wire. The bracket can then be secured by closing the door, or by placing an elastic over the top of the wire.

  • Glue

    Dr. McGrory will attach the brackets to your teeth. He does this using a special glue that adheres the bracket directly on the tooth.

  • Wire

    This thin piece of metal runs from one bracket to another. Dr. McGrory will change the shape and curvature of the wire to move your teeth in the right direction. In many cases the wire will attach all of your bottom or upper teeth together. We might occasionally cut the wire if connecting just a few teeth is better for your treatment plan.

  • Elastics

    If Dr. McGrory determines that you need bite correction, elastics are essential. They're generally strung between an upper bracket hook and a lower bracket hook. This will pull the upper jaw backward to correct an overbite, or the lower jaw back to correct an underbite. We may use rubber bands for many different situations, especially when we want to put extra pressure on the teeth or jaws.

  • Orthodontic bands

    These are stainless steel rings that are cemented to your teeth using dental bonding agents. These bands can provide an anchor for your braces and orthodontic appliances, but they're not used for all treatment plans. At your initial consultation, Dr. McGrory will determine if your treatment will benefit from orthodontic bands.

  • Spacers

    These small elastic "donuts" or rings can be used by Dr. McGrory to create space in between your teeth when needed, typically before bands are placed. They're also referred to as separators.

  • Elastic ties/o-rings/ligatures/colors

    These tiny rubber rings or bands are used to attach the archwire to the brackets. They're less rigid than spacers and at Lake Jackson Orthodontics, they come in dozens of colors.

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Metal braces FAQ