If you look back over the centuries of dental and orthodontic technologies, you’ll note that metal braces were actually the first type of orthodontic treatment to be developed. It’s a testament to their efficacy that they remain popular today. While many people are familiar with the general idea of metal braces, however, most are not aware of just how much their technology has changed since it was first developed. In fact, the technology behind braces has improved by leaps and bounds just within the past decade!
Why Choose Metal Braces In Our Manhattan Orthodontics Office?
Braces consist of two components: brackets and wires. Research and development has led to changes in both parts in recent years, making braces more comfortable, as well as more aesthetic.
The low-profile brackets in today’s metal braces are smaller and thinner, making them far less visible on the teeth, as well as more comfortable on the cheeks and lips. In some cases, the brackets have clips on them that hold the wires, removing the need for colored elastic bands. That being said, some patients (particularly children and teens) still enjoy being able to choose the colors of their bands each month and thus may prefer brackets designed to use elastic bands.
In addition to improvements with brackets, the heat-activated archwires in braces have been made possible by advances in material science. These wires are pliable when cold, but they slowly spring back into their original form when exposed to body heat. The result is a wire that increases the tension on the teeth slowly after placement, rather than all at once, making the days after placement of a new wire far more comfortable.
Braces are able to move teeth very efficiently, and they allow our Upper West Side orthodontist to control the forces applied to the teeth with incredible precision. This allows virtually any type of orthodontic condition to be treatable with braces. It also means that braces provide the fastest possible treatment for a number of conditions. Of course, keep in mind that braces do not have to be metal braces to have this advantage; clear braces (with brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic) are also a highly efficient mode of treatment.
Metal braces are ultimately the most economical form of orthodontic treatment. For those patients concerned about cost, metal braces are the most accessible way to achieve your perfect smile.
Are Metal Braces Right For You?
While braces do move teeth efficiently, their treatment still takes an average of one to two years for most patients. You’ll need to stay committed to the idea of braces throughout this time. If you feel that this could be difficult for you, then you should consider a more discreet form of orthodontic treatment, such as clear braces or Invisalign. For patients who are strongly motivated by the desire for that perfect smile, however, staying committed to their metal braces treatment might seem easy.
5-Star Orthodontic Care With Your Manhattan Orthodontist For Metal Braces
If you’re interested in improving your smile, then you need professional advice from a qualified orthodontist to help you evaluate your treatment options. Dr. George Pliakas, our 5-star rated Manhattan orthodontist can provide you with the guidance you need and deserve. At his Upper West Side orthodontics office, you will receive the benefit that comes from his years of Ivy League education and his additional years of training in a top orthodontic specialty program. Throughout the process, you will feel confident that you’re getting advice you can trust. Call our Upper West Side orthodontics office or book your appointment with Dr. Pliakas online now!
Come experience Central Park Orthodontics on the Upper West Side of NYC. You will see we offer 5-star rated orthodontic treatment to patients in Manhattan, including on the Upper West Side (UWS), Upper East Side (UES), New York City (NYC), Midtown West, Harlem, Morningside Heights, Chelsea, Columbus Circle and Washington Heights – and we do it with a smile!
