Metal Braces in Fort Worth, TX

A Tried and True Orthodontic Treatment for a Straighter Smile

portrait of a girl smiling with her metal bracesWhether you’re looking to improve your first impressions or oral health, traditional metal braces are an effective and trusted way to help achieve that perfect smile. At Lake Country Dental, Dr. Ray Snider can fit you with personalized braces to straighten your smile and get your oral health back on track.  Discover how our affordable dentist in Fort Worth, TX, can help you resolve your orthodontic problems with one reliable treatment! We proudly welcome patients from River Oaks, Haltom City, and Westworth Village.

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into their proper position. The brackets are attached to each tooth using a special adhesive, and the wires are threaded through the brackets and adjusted regularly to apply gentle pressure and move the teeth. In recent years, metal braces have become more comfortable and less noticeable than in the past. The brackets are smaller and more streamlined, and the wires are made from advanced materials that require fewer adjustments.

Who Needs Metal Braces?

Metal braces are suitable for patients of all ages with mild to severe orthodontic problems. They can be used to correct a wide range of issues, including: 

  • Crowded or crooked teeth 
  • Gaps between teeth 
  • Overbite 
  • Underbite 
  • Crossbite

In some cases, we may recommend metal braces over other orthodontic treatments because they are more effective or affordable. For example, metal braces are often the best option for patients with very crooked or misaligned teeth or for those who need significant bite correction.

Benefits of Metal Braces

dentist showing patient model of teeth with metal bracesThere are many advantages to choosing metal braces for your orthodontic treatment. Here are a few of the top benefits:

  • Affordable – Metal braces are often the most affordable option for orthodontic treatment, especially compared to newer alternatives like clear aligners.
  • Effective – Metal braces are a highly effective way to straighten teeth and correct bite issues.
  • Durable – Metal braces are strong and durable, and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
  • Customizable – Braces can be customized with different colored bands to make them more fun and personalized.
  • Fast – For some patients, metal braces can produce results faster than other orthodontic treatments.

The Path to a Straighter Smile with Metal Braces

If you choose to get metal braces from Dr. Snider in Fort Worth, TX, here is what you can expect during your treatment:

  • Consultation – Your first appointment will involve an evaluation to determine if metal braces are the right option for you.
  • Placement – At your second appointment, Dr. Snider will place the brackets on your teeth and attach the wires.
  • Adjustments – You’ll need to return to the office periodically to have your braces adjusted, typically every four to six weeks.
  • Completion – After your treatment is complete, Dr. Snider will remove your braces and provide you with a retainer to help maintain your new smile.

Caring For Your Metal Braces

To keep your metal braces in good condition and ensure that your treatment progresses as planned, it’s important to follow these care tips:

  • Brush and Floss Regularly – You’ll need to brush and floss more frequently than usual to remove food particles and plaque from your braces and teeth.
  • Avoid Certain Foods – Sticky, hard, or chewy foods can damage your braces and prolong your treatment.
  • Be Aware of Discomfort: It’s common to experience some discomfort or soreness after your braces are first placed or after an adjustment. If you experience discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers and use orthodontic wax to ease the discomfort.
  • Clean Your Braces: In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth, you should also clean your braces regularly. Use an interdental brush or a special orthodontic brush to clean the brackets and wires, and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove any remaining debris.
  • Attend Routine Appointments – Attend all of your scheduled appointments with Dr. Snider to ensure that your braces are adjusted properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do metal braces take to work?

The length of time it takes for metal braces to work depends on the individual patient’s needs and the severity of their orthodontic issues. In general, treatment with metal braces can take anywhere from 18 to 36 months. However, it’s important to keep in mind that each patient’s case is unique and may require more or less time to achieve the desired results.

What can I eat with metal braces?

While wearing metal braces, it’s important to avoid certain foods that can damage the braces or prolong treatment. Some foods to avoid include hard candy, gum, popcorn, nuts, and sticky or chewy foods. You can still enjoy a variety of other foods, such as soft fruits, cooked vegetables, pasta, and lean proteins.

Are braces available for children and adults?

Yes, metal braces are available for both children and adults. More and more adults are choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment with metal braces to improve the appearance and function of their teeth. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to learn how you may benefit from metal braces.

How often do you see the orthodontist with braces?

The frequency of orthodontic appointments depends on the individual patient’s needs and the stage of treatment. During the initial stage of treatment, patients typically visit the orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments and to check the progress of their treatment. As treatment progresses, appointments may become less frequent. It’s important to attend all scheduled appointments to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.

Metal Braces: Creating a Lifetime of Stunning Smiles

With their affordability, durability, and effectiveness, metal braces are a tried and true solution to various orthodontic issues. Dr. Snider is a trusted provider of metal braces in Fort Worth, TX, and is committed to helping his patients achieve their best possible smile. Contact our office today at 817-236-8771 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation and learn more about how metal braces can improve your oral health and appearance.