Methods for straightening teeth go back for generations. Traditional metal braces are still the go-to method for straightening smiles, especially for adolescents and teens. Dr. Cory Gaunt is an accomplished orthodontic dentist in Spokane, and he offers advanced options for traditional metal braces at Downriver Smiles.
Braces to straighten teeth rely on the application of pressure to the teeth to generate slow, strategically-designed movement. This pressure is applied through a series of brackets that are attached to the individual teeth to be moved, which are interconnected with metal wires for guidance. Various hardware attachments are tightened at each orthodontic visit to maintain the necessary amount of pressure. Some adjustments are also made here and there to ensure the teeth are moving into the correct positions.
While the basic premise is simple, the operation of dental braces is quite intricate and requires skilled and experienced planning and construction of the dental devices. Dr. Gaunt and the team at Downriver Smiles can use traditional metal braces to straighten smiles, even those requiring quite extensive amounts of movement and realignment.
Advantages of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces have several advantages over other, newer forms of orthodontic treatment. Important for parents, it remains one of the most affordable options available. Families that cannot fit Invisalign® or other forms of clear aligners into their budget can more easily afford braces. Also, many family dental insurance plans cover much of the cost for traditional braces.
Traditional metal braces can also be used to straighten smiles that require extensive treatment; even severely crooked teeth and misaligned bites can be remedied with metal braces. Modern braces have adopted some enhancements to appeal to teens. Instead of being ashamed of a “metal mouth,” teens can show off colored braces with different shades of appliances.
If you or your teen needs orthodontic treatment in Spokane, traditional metal braces are a completely viable and effective option. Dr. Gaunt and the team at Downriver Smiles can explain more and outline what to expect from your orthodontic therapy with braces in a consultation at our clinic. When you contact our dentist office, ask about using your dental insurance and our financing options to help afford dental care.
