Metal Braces

The total active treatment time varies based on the complexity of your alignment needs, but most patients wear metal braces for anywhere between 12 to 24 months. After an initial examination, a customized timeline tailored to your specific jaw structure will be designed for you.

Having the brackets bonded to your teeth is entirely painless. Over the first few days following your placement or routine adjustments, your teeth will feel tight or mildly tender as they begin to shift. This minor discomfort is temporary and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or orthodontic wax.

To avoid bending wires or breaking loose brackets, you should avoid sticky foods (like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum) as well as exceptionally hard or crunchy items (such as popcorn, nuts, ice, and hard pretzels). Whole apples and raw carrots should be sliced into small pieces before eating.

Absolutely. Athletes can safely play any sport by wearing a protective orthodontic mouthguard designed to fit comfortably over brackets. Musicians playing wind or brass instruments will go through a brief adjustment period but can absolutely continue playing.

Regular adjustment appointments are typically scheduled every 4 to 8 weeks. These short office visits allow our team to track your progress, change out your colored elastics, and adjust the archwires to keep your treatment progressing smoothly.