Metal braces - Dental Procedures

Metal braces are the most common and widely used braces for teeth correction. Metal brackets are very strong and can withstand most types of treatment. They may be irritating at first, but after a few weeks patients usually get used to having them.

Traditional metal wired braces are stainless steel, sometimes in combination with titanium, and are the most widely used. The fact they are still used, next to all modern material and esthetically more pleasing braces, speaks how effective metal braces are in orthodontistry.

Metal braces include conventional braces, which require ties to hold the wire in place, and newer self-tying (self-ligating) braces. Self-ligating braces may reduce friction between the wire and the slot of the bracket, which makes it easier for the patient. The friction and esthetics are the only cons against using metal braces.

For people who are allergic to nickel in steel, titanium braces are a better option. Titanium braces resemble stainless steel braces but are lighter and just as strong, but they are more expensive than stainless steel braces.