Metal Braces in York
From Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics
Traditional braces have been around for a long time, and they’re probably the most recognizable symbol of orthodontics in York, PA and the surrounding areas.
Efficient, inexpensive, and smaller than ever, metal braces are a great option for accomplishing all sorts of orthodontic adjustments.
All About Braces
These orthodontic workhorses have a long history of successful treatment and are great at correcting many oral issues. At Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics, metal braces continue to be the top orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages.
They can work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might, shortening overall treatment time without compromising on quality.
Metal braces are a cost-effective option because they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do.
Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive than ever.
Metal braces are built from high-grade stainless steel and are the most common type of braces you’ll see.
Brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth and connect to one another by an archwire, helping to guide your teeth where Dr. Pedersen wants them to move.
What Are My Braces Made Of?
Brackets
The brackets that Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics uses are durable and made from a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other mouth-safe metals.
Brackets have little hooks or doors through which Dr. Pedersen will thread a wire. The bracket can then be secured by closing the door, or by placing an elastic over the top of the wire to secure the wire in place while allowing for tightening or adjustment at future appointments.
Elastics
If Dr. Pedersen determines that you need bite correction, elastics are essential. They’re generally strung between an upper bracket hook and a lower bracket hook, and will gently pull the upper jaw backward to correct an overbite, or the lower jaw back to correct an underbite.
We may use rubber bands for many different situations, especially when we want to put extra shifting pressure on the teeth or jaws.
Wire
This thin piece of metal runs from one bracket to another. Dr. Pedersen will change the shape and curvature of the wire to move your teeth in the right direction.
The wire will attach all of your bottom or upper teeth together in many cases. We might occasionally shorten the wire if connecting just a few teeth is better for your treatment plan.
Orthodontic Bands
These are stainless steel rings that are attached firmly to your teeth using dental bonding agents. These bands can provide an anchor for your braces and orthodontic appliances, but they’re not needed in every case.
Dr. Pedersen will determine if your treatment will benefit from orthodontic bands at your initial consultation.
Elastic Ties/O-Rings/Ligatures/Colors
These tiny rubber rings or bands are used to hold the archwire to the brackets. They’re less rigid than spacers andthey come in dozens of colors at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics.
Style however you want—from the colors of your favorite sports team to subdued, tooth-colored hues, braces have never been this easy to integrate into your life.
Orthodontic Glue
This is what Dr. Pedersen will use to attach the brackets to your teeth. It’s common to attach the bracket directly to the tooth with mouth-safe, non-toxic glue. This glue will be fully and safely removed at the end of your orthodontic procedure without damage to your teeth or mouth.
Spacers
These small elastic “donuts” or rings can be used by Dr. Pedersen to create space in between your teeth when needed, typically before bands are placed. They’re also referred to as separators.