Traditional Braces in St. Paul
Even with many types of braces available today, traditional metal braces remain one of the most popular and dependable orthodontic options. At Thayer Orthodontics in St. Paul, MN , we use modern traditional braces that are more comfortable and effective than ever, helping children, teens, and adults correct crooked teeth, crowding, gaps, and bite problems with excellent, reliable results.
request an appointmentHow Traditional Braces Work
Traditional braces use small stainless steel brackets bonded to the front of each tooth and connected by an archwire. At each adjustment appointment, our orthodontist fine-tunes the wire to apply gentle, consistent pressure that gradually moves teeth into their proper positions. Great strides in orthodontic technology have made today’s brackets smaller and more comfortable than the braces of the past.
Benefits of Traditional Metal Braces
- Highly effective for simple and complex tooth movements and bite corrections
- Durable stainless steel brackets designed to withstand daily wear
- Fixed in place, so there is nothing to remember to wear
- Often the most cost-effective orthodontic option
- Fun to customize with colorful bands
Personalize Your Smile With Colors
Many children and teens love decorating their braces with different colored rubber bands to create a colorful, unique smile. You can choose a new color, or combination of colors, at every adjustment appointment to celebrate holidays, school colors, or favorite sports teams.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces are suitable for patients of nearly every age. They are commonly used for braces for children and braces for teens and are an excellent choice for adult orthodontic treatment as well. Patients who prefer a more discreet look may consider clear braces or clear aligners.
Caring for Your Braces
When your braces are placed, we provide special toothbrushes, hands-on cleaning instruction, and a written list of foods to avoid. Clean teeth and healthy gums support efficient tooth movement and can help reduce treatment time. After treatment, retainers help keep your new smile in place. Explore all of our orthodontic services or visit our orthodontic FAQs.
Traditional Braces FAQs
What are traditional braces made of?
Traditional braces use stainless steel brackets bonded to the teeth and connected with an archwire that gently guides teeth into position.
How long will I need to wear traditional braces?
Comprehensive orthodontic treatment generally takes 18 to 24 months, though your exact timeline depends on your individual needs.
How often will my braces be adjusted?
Adjustment appointments are typically scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks once treatment begins.
Do traditional braces hurt?
Teeth may be sore for a day or two after braces are placed and after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually manage this easily.
Can I choose colors for my braces?
Yes. You can choose new colored rubber bands at every adjustment appointment to personalize your smile.
Are traditional braces better than clear aligners?
Traditional braces are highly effective for a wide range of cases, including complex bite problems. Clear aligners are a great alternative for some patients, and our orthodontist will recommend the best option for you.
What foods should I avoid with metal braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can break brackets or bend wires. We provide a written list of foods to avoid when your braces are placed.
Start Your Traditional Braces Treatment
Find out if traditional braces are right for you or your child. Call Thayer Orthodontics at (651) 488-5622 or request your complimentary initial exam online.
