Traditional Metal Braces in Wyomissing, PA

Thanks to modern technology and countless orthodontic advances, traditional metal braces are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than ever. Conventional braces offer unique customizations and are ideal for a wide range of orthodontic needs, from minor tooth misalignment to severe issues with the bite. A number of Wyomissing and Reading, PA patients choose metal braces, as this option allows them to show off their personality and team spirit through colorful elastic ties. Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics is pleased to provide traditional braces and full-service orthodontics to accommodate the varying needs of our Wyomissing and Reading, PA patients and their families. To find out more about traditional braces for you or your child, schedule an appointment with our friendly team of orthodontists today!

Traditional braces can a good choice for children, teenagers, and adults. Our traditional metal braces are crafted from top-grade stainless steel archwires and brackets that are strategically placed to give you the beautiful and functional smile you desire. Conventional braces may be a preferred option for patients with jaw alignment issues, crowded or gapped teeth, under- or over-bites, and protruding teeth, among other orthodontic concerns. In addition, we use high-quality elastics that do not readily break and are easy to apply. During your consultation at our practice, our well-trained orthodontists will present your options for braces and help you select the method that best matches your needs and goals.

After your initial consultation, an individualized treatment plan will be created for your particular case. When you return to get your orthodontic braces, your teeth will be professionally prepped and cleaned before applying your metal braces. Once we have applied the bonding agent to your enamel, your brackets will be precisely positioned and attached to the teeth. An archwire will then be threaded through your brackets and held in place by elastic ties (in the color of your choice). The bracket and wire application procedure generally moves fairly fast and usually is a comfortable process. We will have you schedule visits at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics about once a month for adjustments to your braces and progress exams so that we can monitor your tooth movement.

Traditional braces can make cleaning and flossing your teeth more challenging. However, maintaining proper oral hygiene each day is essential to both your orthodontic treatment and the health of your teeth and gums. After your braces are placed, our team will show you how to brush and floss and provide you with helpful hints, including additional tools that may better assist you in oral care. As a general rule, we suggest that you floss and brush your teeth after each meal. Maintaining regular dental cleanings and appointments is also important to ensure optimal results. On average, most patients wear braces for 1 – 2 years, but your treatment time will depend on your unique orthodontic needs. After your treatment is complete, we will remove the braces and help you select the right retainer to fit your new smile. Your retainer can keep your teeth in their location and should be worn as recommended to maintain your results.

When you have a problem with your braces, do not panic. You might be able to fix many problems temporarily by yourself until you can arrive at our office for a repair. These issues do not need to create a delay in your treatment. Anytime you have an issue with your braces, please contact our team right away. Until then, you can try one of these temporary solutions:

Loose band or bracket
If the bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. To minimize any discomfort, place orthodontic wax or sugarless gum over the affected area. You may be able to remove the elastic using tweezers, allowing you to detach the bracket from the archwire.
Loose wire
Attempt to push the wire into position using tweezers or a Q-tip. If that is not working, clip the wire with fingernail clippers or small wire cutters behind the tooth to which it is securely fastened. If it is causing you discomfort, place a piece of sugarless gum or orthodontic wax over the area.
Poking wire
Place orthodontic wax or sugarless gum on the portion of the wire that is poking into your soft tissues.
Soreness
There may be discomfort for a few days following your orthodontic visits. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water and/or take nonprescription pain medication as directed.
Loose appliance
If the appliance is poking your soft tissues or causing discomfort, then place orthodontic wax or sugarless gum over it to stabilize the device.

The cost of traditional metal braces is generally comparable with other treatment methods. Following your initial consultation, our office staff will review your insurance benefits and provide information about any uncovered costs. Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics offers an array of convenient financial solutions for those in need of orthodontic braces, including interest-free payment plans through Wells Fargo and CareCredit.

Are traditional braces as effective as clear aligners?
Both types of braces, traditional metal braces and trays such as Invisalign® aligners, work to straighten and correct your teeth by applying pressure in different areas. Clear aligners are more flexible as you can remove these for eating, drinking, and flossing. However, depending on the issues you need braces to correct, traditional braces may be able to provide more severe corrections.

How long will my braces be on?
The majority of our Wyomissing, PA patients have braces between 1 — 2 years. Depending on your specific goals and your prescribed needs with braces, your time could vary. We promise to make your treatment as effective and efficient as possible here at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics.

What foods should I avoid eating with braces?
Everyone talks about food restrictions with traditional braces. These limits are in place to prevent breaking of brackets and wires from snapping. Some foods you can anticipate being off limits include caramel, hard candy, gum, nuts, popcorn, and carrots, although this list might expand according to your provider.

In recent years, there have been several advances in dental and orthodontic care for individuals of all ages. However, traditional braces are still one of our most popular methods at Grove Dental Group and Orthodontics. Contact our practice in Wyomissing or Reading, PA to schedule a consultation with our skilled orthodontists and learn more about straightening your smile with traditional metal braces and other orthodontic options.