There is some evidence that braces date back to around 300-400 BC, and that metal braces were actually the first type of orthodontic treatment to be developed. It’s a testament to their efficiency and one of the reasons that they remain popular today. While many people are familiar with the general idea of metal braces in New York City, however, most are not aware of just how much their technology has changed since it was first developed. Just in the past decade, the technology behind braces has improved by leaps and bounds!
Metal Braces Offer More Comfort
There are two parts to braces: brackets and wires. In recent years, research and development have led to positive changes in both – and today’s modern braces are more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than in the past.
Today’s metal braces feature low-profile brackets, which 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. However, some patients (especially children and teens) still enjoy being choosing the colors of their bands each month and may prefer brackets designed to use elastic bands.
In addition, advances in material science have led to heat-activated archwires in braces. These wires are pliable when cold but 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 New York City orthodontist to control the forces applied to the teeth with incredible precision. This means virtually any type of orthodontic condition can be treatable with braces and that braces provide the fastest possible treatment for a number of conditions. Of course, be aware that braces do not have to be metal braces on the front of the teeth to have this advantage. Clear braces (with brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic) and lingual braces (applied behind the teeth) are also highly efficient modes 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.
A Commitment to Metal Braces Brings Great Results
While effective and efficient, treatment with braces still takes an average of one to two years for most patients, so staying committed throughout this time is important. If you feel that this could be a challenge for you, you might consider a more discreet form of orthodontic treatment such as clear braces, lingual braces, or Invisalign. However, if you are strongly motivated to achieve the perfect smile, staying committed to your treatment might seem easy.
5-Star Orthodontic Care With Metal Braces in New York City
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 New York City orthodontist can provide you with the guidance you need and deserve. At his NYC 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 NYC orthodontics office or book your appointment with Dr. Pliakas online now!
Come experience Central Park Orthodontics in NYC. You will see we offer 5-star rated orthodontic treatment to patients in New York City (NYC), including on the Upper West Side (UWS), Upper East Side (UES), Manhattan, Midtown West, Harlem, Morningside Heights, Chelsea, Columbus Circle, and Washington Heights – and we do it with a smile!