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Braces

Proven orthodontic treatment using metal, ceramic, or lingual braces to correct misalignment, improve bite function, and deliver lasting results for patients of all ages.

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What Are Braces?

Braces are orthodontic devices that apply gentle, consistent pressure to your teeth over time to gradually move them into proper alignment. They consist of brackets bonded to the front of each tooth and connected by a wire that your provider adjusts periodically throughout treatment. Braces are one of the most effective and time-tested orthodontic treatments available and can correct a wide range of alignment and bite issues for patients of all ages.

Braces work around the clock. Unlike removable aligners, braces are fixed in place and apply gentle pressure to your teeth at all times, which makes them particularly effective for more complex cases.

Your braces treatment is tailored to your specific alignment needs and timeline. Your provider will walk you through your options, including metal and ceramic braces, and recommend the best fit for your goals and lifestyle.

Here is what most patients can expect from Braces at a glance:

18–24
Months average treatment timeline 
4–6
Weeks between adjustment appointments

Types of Braces 

The type of braces recommended for you will depend on your alignment needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Your provider will walk you through all available options at your consultation.
 
 

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic treatment available and have been refined over decades to be more comfortable and effective than ever before. Small metal brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth and connected by a wire that your provider adjusts periodically to guide your teeth into proper alignment. They are highly effective for a wide range of alignment and bite issues and are often the most affordable braces option, making them a popular choice for patients of all ages.

Normal Traditional Braces

When Are Braces Recommended?

 
Braces are one of the most versatile orthodontic treatments available. Here are the most common cases where they are the right choice.
 
 

Moderate to severe crowding

Significant overlapping or misalignment that requires the consistent pressure of fixed braces to correct over time.

 

Complex bite issues

Significant overbites, underbites, crossbites, or open bites that need precise and sustained correction throughout treatment.

 

Younger patients

Children and teens whose teeth and jaw are still developing, making braces an ideal time to guide proper alignment early.

 

Cases requiring maximum control

Situations where the provider needs precise control over tooth movement that clear aligners may not be able to fully achieve.

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What To Expect

A step-by-step look at the braces process at Smart Dental Network.
  
Man with Traditional Braces smiling
1

Consultation and treatment planning

Your provider evaluates your teeth, bite, and jaw and recommends the right type of braces for your specific needs, walking you through your treatment timeline and what to expect before any brackets are placed.

2

Placement and adjustment

Your brackets are bonded to your teeth and your wire is placed. You will return to your provider every four to six weeks for adjustments that continue guiding your teeth toward their final position.

3

Completion and retention

Once your teeth have reached their final alignment your braces are removed and your provider fits you with a retainer to hold your results and prevent any shifting as your mouth continues to settle.

Caring For Your Braces

Good habits during treatment make a real difference in your results. Here is what to keep in mind throughout your braces journey.

After every meal

Cleaning

Brush carefully around your brackets and wires after every meal to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup around your hardware and gum line.

Every 4–6 weeks

Adjustment appointments

Regular adjustment visits are an essential part of braces treatment. Your provider will tighten your wire and make any
changes needed.

Ongoing

Foods to avoid

Sticky, hard, or chewy foods can damage brackets and wires and set your treatment back. Your provider will give you a full list of what to avoid during treatment.

Other Orthodontic Treatments

Explore the full range of orthodontic services available across Smart Dental Network locations.
 
 

Invisalign

A series of clear, removable aligners custom-fitted to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment without the look of traditional braces.

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Snap-On Smile

A removable, non-invasive arch that fits over your existing teeth to instantly improve the appearance of your smile without any permanent changes.

Learn more →

Dental Appliances

Custom-fitted removable arches and orthodontic devices designed to improve smile appearance or guide teeth and jaw development without braces or aligners.

Learn more →
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Related Resources

 
From our resource center, helpful reading to support you before, during, and
throughout your Braces Treatment.
 
  
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