What Are Metal Braces?
Metal braces remain one of the most effective and versatile orthodontic systems available. Using a combination of stainless steel brackets bonded to the teeth and a series of archwires that guide tooth movement, metal braces can correct a wide range of alignment issues including crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. They are especially well suited for complex cases that require precise, controlled movement of multiple teeth simultaneously.
Metal Braces: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | Every 4 to 8 weeks |
| Time needed | Usually 12 to 24 months |
| Anesthesia | None |
| Recovery time | Tenderness for a few days after fitting and adjustments |
| How long it lasts | Permanent with retainers |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Who Metal Braces Are For
Metal braces are a particularly strong option for patients with severe crowding, significant bite discrepancies, or rotations that require the level of control that fixed brackets and wires provide. For patients who prefer a less visible option, ceramic braces offer similar mechanics with tooth-colored brackets, while Invisalign and clear aligners provide a removable, nearly invisible alternative for qualifying cases.
Metal braces give the greatest control over tooth movement and do not depend on remembering to wear anything. They suit all ages and nearly every type of orthodontic problem.
- Severe crowding or large gaps
- Significant overbite, underbite or crossbite
- Teeth that need rotating or moving vertically
- Younger patients who might not wear aligners reliably
- A preference for the most cost-effective fixed option
Metal Braces at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, metal braces are provided by Dr. Marina Rubinshtein, who oversees each case from initial evaluation through final retention. Dr. Marina designs the treatment plan based on the patient’s specific alignment needs, bite relationship, and aesthetic goals. Adjustments are made at regular intervals to progressively guide the teeth into their ideal positions. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than the systems of previous decades, delivering excellent results with a more refined patient experience.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Records. Photos, X-rays and a scan are taken and a plan is made.
- Bonding. Brackets are bonded to the teeth and the first wire is placed, in one to two hours.
- Adjustments. Wires are changed or adjusted every four to eight weeks.
- Finishing. Small bends and elastics refine the bite.
- Removal. Brackets are removed and the teeth are polished.
- Retention. Retainers are fitted the same day or soon after.
Braces and aligners compared
| Appliance | Visibility | Removable | Suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | Most visible | No | All cases, including complex ones |
| Ceramic braces | Less visible | No | Moderate to complex cases |
| Lingual braces | Hidden behind the teeth | No | Most cases |
| Invisalign and clear aligners | Nearly invisible | Yes | Mild to moderate cases, and some complex ones |
Metal braces are still the benchmark. When a case is difficult, they are usually what gets it done.
Living with Your Appliance
Day-to-day care
The first week
- Expect tenderness for three to five days after fitting and after adjustments
- Eat soft foods and use orthodontic wax on any spot that rubs
- Rinse with warm salt water for sore cheeks
Throughout treatment
- Brush after every meal and clean under the wire daily
- Avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods
- Wear elastics exactly as instructed
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- A bracket comes loose or a band slips
- A wire is poking and wax does not help
- You have pain that does not settle after a week
Cost and Insurance
Orthodontic fees are usually quoted as one amount for the whole course of treatment, including adjustments and the first set of retainers.
What affects the cost
- The complexity of the tooth movement needed
- The type of appliance chosen
- The expected length of treatment
- Retainers and any replacement aligners
Some dental plans include an orthodontic benefit with a lifetime maximum. Payment is often spread across the months of treatment. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
For typical price ranges, read our guide to how much braces cost in Brooklyn.
