Braces are versatile orthodontic appliances that offer great value while providing excellent results. On average, treatment with metal braces costs about $5,000 to $7,500 in Las Cruces, NM.
How Do Braces Work?
Braces exert gentle pressure on the teeth to move them into new positions. Over time, braces guide the teeth into optimal position and promote good oral health.
Parts of Braces
- Brackets: The orthodontist cements the brackets to the front of each tooth. The brackets guide the teeth along the archwire.
- Bands: Metal bands go around the second molars, anchoring the archwire.
- Archwire: The archwire connects the brackets and the bands. Tightening the archwire (adjustment) is how orthodontists induce tooth movement.
- Ligatures: These are usually small elastics that tie the archwire to the brackets, allowing the teeth to slide along the archwire.
Conditions Metal Braces Can Correct
Metal braces can correct most orthodontic issues, including the following:
Spacing and Overcrowding
Braces can correct gapped teeth, crooked teeth, and overcrowded teeth.
Underbites and Overbites
An underbite happens when the lower jaw sticks out beyond the upper jaw, while an overbite is the reverse. Braces can correct both bite issues.
Misaligned Jaw
Crooked teeth could cause jaw discomfort and harm your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), resulting in complications. After braces realign your jaw, you may also have a more symmetrical face.
Open Bite
An open bite happens when the teeth do not meet when you close your mouth. Braces can address this problem.
How to Care For Metal Braces
While metal braces can improve oral health, they can be challenging to keep clean. Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods like popcorn, nuts, and caramel.
Brush carefully at least twice daily, using an interproximal brush available at any pharmacy to get behind the wires. Use a floss threader to access the spaces between your teeth. Finally, keep all of your scheduled dental and orthodontic appointments.
If you experience a broken wire or your braces irritate your cheeks, try using orthodontic wax to cover the sharp parts until you can see your doctor for a repair.
Call Desert Orthodontics
Braces correct orthodontic issues with flexibility and cost efficiency. They can bring you a bright, even smile that you will want to share with the world.
If you want braces for yourself or your child, please call our Las Cruces, NM, office at 575-521-0900. We can answer your braces questions and schedule an appointment for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces
How long do braces take to work?
Generally, braces take about 12 months to three years. Treatment times with braces may vary depending on the severity of your alignment issues.
How long do I need to wear my retainer after getting my braces off?
If you wear your retainers exactly as directed, your teeth will stay in position. Most patients must wear retainers for six to nine months or longer if their orthodontist prescribes them.