Structures similar to braces have been around for a very, very long time, some say even as far back as ancient Egypt – with metal braces being the first type of orthodontic treatment to be developed. Their longevity is evidence of their effectiveness and one of the reasons that metal braces are still popular today. While many people are familiar with the general idea of metal braces, most are not aware of just how much their technology has changed since it was first developed. Even in the past decade, the technology behind braces has improved dramatically.
Improvements to Metal Braces
Braces are comprised of two parts: brackets and wires. Research and development in recent years have led to great progress – and today’s modern braces are more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than in the past.
The metal braces of today feature smaller, thinner, low-profile brackets, making them far less visible on the teeth and 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. Of course, some patients (especially children and teens) still enjoy choosing the colors of their bands each month and may prefer brackets designed to use elastic bands.
Moreover, 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 move teeth very efficiently, and they enable our Upper West Side orthodontist to control the forces applied to the teeth with incredible accuracy. This means virtually any type of orthodontic condition can be treatable with braces and that braces provide the most efficient mode of treatment for a number of conditions. There are several options to the types of braces that offer this advantage including traditional metal braces on the front of the teeth, clear braces (with brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic), and lingual braces (braces applied behind the teeth).
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.
Great Results Come from Patience & Commitment
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 not be an issue at all.
5-Star Orthodontic Care with Metal Braces on Upper West Side
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 Upper West Side 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 in New York City. 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!