Metal braces are the oldest, most time-tested, and most versatile method of smile correction. They use a series of metal brackets, wires, and bands to move your teeth. Once your braces are attached, Dr. Chris Carter can gently adjust them to place pressure on each tooth. Over time, the tooth will move and permanently adjust to its new position. Through multiple adjustments, Dr. Carter can use your braces to completely transform your smile. Contact us now to learn more about orthodontics, see if you’re a candidate, and get started with treatment in Mission Viejo.
To begin your treatment, you’ll need to meet with Dr. Carter for an orthodontic consultation. Everyone’s orthodontic challenges are different. Some people are good candidates for traditional metal braces. Others may be better off with Invisalign or another treatment. Together, you and Dr. Carter can decide on the right treatment for your budget, your oral health, and your personal preferences.
If you're approved, your braces will be placed at your next appointment. Dr. Carter will glue metal brackets to your teeth and attach metal bands to your rear teeth. He will thread special wires between the brackets and use elastic bands to hold them in place. Once your braces are in place, he will adjust them for the first time. This places pressure on your teeth, encouraging them to move to the proper position.
Most people need to have their braces adjusted every 6 weeks. However, some people need more frequent adjustments, while others may need less frequent adjustments. Each adjustment takes only a few minutes. Dr. Carter will perform a quick exam to check on your oral health and progress. Then, he’ll adjust your braces to ensure your teeth keep moving properly. This same basic process will repeat until you’re completely finished with your treatment. The average treatment time is around 12 months.
To begin your treatment, you’ll need to meet with Dr. Carter for an orthodontic consultation. Everyone’s orthodontic challenges are different. Some people are good candidates for traditional metal braces. Others may be better off with Invisalign or another treatment. Together, you and Dr. Carter can decide on the right treatment for your budget, your oral health, and your personal preferences.
If you're approved, your braces will be placed at your next appointment. Dr. Carter will glue metal brackets to your teeth and attach metal bands to your rear teeth. He will thread special wires between the brackets and use elastic bands to hold them in place. Once your braces are in place, he will adjust them for the first time. This places pressure on your teeth, encouraging them to move to the proper position.
Most people need to have their braces adjusted every 6 weeks. However, some people need more frequent adjustments, while others may need less frequent adjustments. Each adjustment takes only a few minutes. Dr. Carter will perform a quick exam to check on your oral health and progress. Then, he’ll adjust your braces to ensure your teeth keep moving properly. This same basic process will repeat until you’re completely finished with your treatment. The average treatment time is around 12 months.
Metal braces are typically the most affordable type of orthodontic treatment, though costs may vary for each patient. Some insurance plans may even contribute to the cost of treatment for teenagers and children.
Braces are durable and are hard to damage, though you will need to take some precautions like avoiding certain foods. They're also always on your teeth, unlike Invisalign aligners, which could be misplaced, lost, or damaged while they're out of your mouth.
Braces are the most versatile type of orthodontic treatment. Along with other orthodontic procedures and surgeries, they can be used to correct almost any problem with the alignment of your teeth and jaws. If you have complex orthodontic issues, braces are almost certainly your best option.