A Reliable Option for Straightening Teeth
Traditional braces have been used for many years to effectively correct tooth alignment and bite problems. They use brackets, wires, and sometimes elastics to gradually move teeth into better position and improve how the teeth and jaws work together.
Because braces stay in place throughout treatment, they provide consistent tooth movement and precise control. This makes them a reliable option for correcting crowding, spacing, bite issues, and more complex orthodontic concerns.
When Traditional Braces May Be Recommended
Traditional braces can correct a wide range of orthodontic problems involving tooth position, bite alignment, and jaw development. They are especially effective when treatment requires precise control and steady movement over time.
Traditional braces are commonly used to treat:
- Crowding
- Spacing issues
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Crooked or rotated teeth
- Teeth erupting out of position
- Jaw alignment concerns
- Bite problems that affect long-term function
Treatment planning depends on how the teeth, bite, and jaws are developing, along with the level of correction needed for long-term stability.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are one of the most reliable and effective ways to correct tooth alignment and bite problems. They offer strong, consistent tooth movement and work well for both simple and more complex orthodontic cases.
Benefits of traditional braces include:
- Affordable treatment compared to some other orthodontic options
- Durable brackets and wires designed for long-term treatment
- Continuous tooth movement without needing to remember to wear aligners
- Reliable correction for crowding, spacing, and bite problems
- Versatile treatment for more complex orthodontic and jaw alignment concerns
Braces Options We Offer
The braces system we recommend depends on treatment goals, esthetic preferences, and the complexity of the bite.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional braces use medical-grade stainless steel brackets and archwires to gradually guide teeth into position. They remain one of the most versatile and effective options, especially for more complex tooth and bite corrections.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work similarly to traditional braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets for a less noticeable appearance. They are a popular option for teens and adults who want a more subtle orthodontic treatment.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces use a specialized clip system instead of elastic ties to hold the wire in place. This design can reduce friction, make cleaning easier, and allow smoother tooth movement throughout treatment.
Placing Traditional Braces
After your orthodontic treatment plan is finalized, a separate appointment is scheduled to place the braces. During this visit, the brackets and wires are carefully placed to begin guiding the teeth into better alignment.
- Prepare the teeth – The teeth are cleaned and dried so the brackets can bond properly.
- Place the brackets – Small metal brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth.
- Add the archwire – A thin wire is placed through the brackets to begin guiding tooth movement.
- Secure the wire – Small elastics hold the wire in place and may be changed at future visits.
- Make the first adjustment – The braces are adjusted to apply gentle pressure that begins moving the teeth into better alignment.
- Review home care instructions – Before you leave, we explain how to brush and floss with braces, what foods to avoid, and what to expect during the first few days.
There is a short adjustment period after braces are placed as the teeth, cheeks, and lips get used to the brackets and wires.
Follow-Up Visits
Most patients return every 6 to 8 weeks for adjustment visits. During these appointments, progress is checked and small changes are made to keep teeth moving efficiently.
This may include adjusting wires, replacing rubber bands, checking bracket stability, and making sure the bite is improving as planned. Regular visits are an important part of keeping treatment on schedule and supporting the best long-term result.
What Life With Braces Looks Like
Good daily habits help keep treatment on track and protect your teeth during the process.
Helpful habits during treatment include:
- Brush carefully around brackets and wires after every meal
- Floss every day using floss threaders or other braces-friendly tools
- Avoid sticky foods like caramel, gum, and chewy candy
- Avoid hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard nuts that can damage brackets
- Wear rubber bands or other appliances exactly as instructed
Keep Up With Routine Dental Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are still important during orthodontic treatment. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and buildup around brackets and wires in areas that are harder to reach at home.
If your child is a pediatric patient at South OC Pediatric Dentistry, routine cleaning appointments will be scheduled throughout braces treatment so preventive care stays consistent and treatment stays on track.
Download our helpful PDF to learn how to maintain good oral hygiene with braces.
Insurance
We are in-network with Aetna and Cigna and will gladly bill your insurance and help you maximize your benefits.
FAQs
How do I know if braces are the right option?
Braces may be the best option when there is crowding, spacing, a bite problem, jaw alignment concerns, or teeth erupting out of position. An orthodontic exam helps determine whether braces are the most predictable way to correct the issue and which type would be the best fit.
How long do braces usually take?
Most braces treatment takes about 12 to 24 months, though some cases are shorter and some are longer. The timeline depends on the amount of correction needed, growth, bite complexity, and how consistently visits and home care are maintained.
Can braces fix bite problems or just straighten teeth?
Braces can do both. They help align teeth, but they are also used to correct overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and other problems that affect how the teeth fit together.
Can braces move teeth at any age?
Teeth can be moved at almost any age as long as the gums and bone are healthy. Younger patients may benefit from growth guidance, but adults can still achieve excellent alignment with braces.
Does dental insurance cover braces?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that can help cover part of braces treatment, especially for children and teens. Coverage depends on your specific plan. We are in-network with Delta, Aetna, United Concordia and Cigna, and will gladly bill your insurance and help you maximize your benefits.
How much are braces without insurance in California?
The cost of braces without insurance in California usually ranges from about $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the type of braces and how complex the treatment is. More involved cases or other types of braces may cost more. During your orthodontic consultation, your treatment plan and cost estimate will be reviewed based on your specific needs.