Traditional Orthodontic Braces in Lancaster, PA

With modern technologies and countless orthodontic improvements, traditional metal braces are more affordable and comfortable than ever. Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates provides a variety of orthodontic treatments to cater to the different needs of our Lancaster, PA patients. Traditional braces provide unique customizations that aren't possible with removable aligners, such as Spark™ (Ormco) orthodontics. Many patients prefer metal braces because it helps them display their personality by choosing different colored elastic bands. This is especially a fun feature for young adults and teens who are going to their favorite sports games because they can show their spirit. To learn more about traditional metal braces, please schedule an appointment with our Lancaster, PA pediatric dentists.

At Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates, metal braces several advantages for individuals who desire to achieve a more aligned smile. Some of the primary benefits of this orthodontic treatment include:

• Suitable for patients of all ages, from kids to adults
• Effective in addressing a few different oral issues, like gaps, misalignment, crowding, and more
• More cost-efficient compared to alternative orthodontic choices
• Straightforward and reliable technique for obtaining a straighter and healthier smile
• Able to address more involved cases that may not be suitable for other choices
• Created from robust and durable elements

Conventional metal braces work great for both adults and children. Our traditional braces are made of top-grade, stainless steel archwires and brackets that we strategically place to help your child attain a stunning smile. Patients with jaw alignment problems, gapped or crowded teeth, underbites or overbites, and protruding teeth may benefit from metal braces. We also use high-quality elastic bands that don't easily snap and that your teen can easily apply. Throughout appointments with our pediatric dentists, we will discuss the orthodontic treatment options and help you choose the method for your child's needs.

Following the initial examination, we create an individualized treatment plan for your child's specific case. On the day of the appointment, we properly prepare and clean the teeth before placing your son or daughter's metal braces. After we have brushed the bonding agent to the teeth, we put metal mounts on each tooth. Once all the brackets are done, one of our dentists threads the archwire through them. Next, your child can then choose his or her preferred band color(s). The tiny bands keep the archwires attached to the mounts. Usually, the application process moves fairly quickly and patients often experience no discomfort. Parents and their children will need to return to Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates once a month for adjustments and progress checks.

Traditional metal braces may make flossing and cleaning more challenging for your child. That's why good oral hygiene is critical for positive orthodontic results. After placing the braces, one of our team members can instruct each patient on how to best clean their teeth and provide them with helpful tips. As a rule of thumb, we recommend brushing and flossing after each meal. Maintaining all of your appointments and regular dental cleanings can also help to give you optimal results. Normally, most patients use braces for 1 – 2 years; however, the treatment time will depend on your child's condition.

Once the treatment is over, we will remove the braces and fit your child's teeth for a retainer. A retainer keeps the teeth in their place, and we help select the ideal retainer to fit your child's needs.

If you have a problem with your braces, do not panic. Until you schedule an appointment with our office, you might be able to address many issues temporarily on your own. These concerns don't have to cause a delay in the treatment. If you feel you can't handle your orthodontic issue, please call us.

Loose Band or Bracket
If the band or bracket is still connected to the wire, leave it where it is. If it's causing discomfort, place sugarless gum or orthodontic wax on it. Sometimes, you can remove the elastic band with tweezers so you can detach the mount from the archwire.
Loose Wire
Attempt to push the cable into place with tweezers. If that is not working, clip the wire with fingernail clippers or little cable cutters beyond the tooth that it's firmly attached to. If it's causing pain, set sugarless gum or orthodontic wax on it.
Poking Wire
Place orthodontic wax or sugarless gum on the wire.
Soreness
Your child may experience soreness for many days after each office visit. Chew carefully on sugarless gum following appointments to reduce soreness. Use warm salt water rinses or take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed.
Loose Appliance
If the appliance is sticking or poking you, set sugarless gum or orthodontic wax on it to keep it in place and call our office for additional help.

In comparison to other orthodontic treatments, conventional metal braces are typically less costly. During the consultation, we discuss your child's treatment options and cost estimates so you can select the best method and budget. If you're using insurance, we will talk to your provider to understand your coverage and calculate your out-of-pocket expenses. Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates proudly accepts many payment methods for patients without insurance, and we can help you find low-interest medical financing.

How long will I have to wear braces?
Generally speaking, patients will have to wear braces for 1 – 2 years. However, it is important to note that the length of time you will need to wear your braces will depend on your unique orthodontic needs and goals. Our team will recommend a personalized treatment plan to complete your treatment quickly and efficiently.

What foods should I avoid when wearing braces?
Children's braces have important food restrictions to help keep the brackets and wires from becoming damaged. Sticky and chewy foods like gum, bagels, caramel, and hard foods like carrots, pretzels, popcorn, and hard candies, should all be avoided. We will review the list of foods that should be avoided once your braces have been applied.

Do traditional braces work the same as clear teeth aligners?
Like clear aligners, metal braces also place gentle pressure on your teeth to gently guide them into ideal positions. There may be some instances where one orthodontic treatment may be recommended over another. However, in most cases, patients have the option of choosing their orthodontic treatment. Your dental team will thoroughly explain your options to help you choose the best treatment for your teeth and your lifestyle. If you are interested in learning more about traditional metal braces, contact Lancaster, PA team to schedule a consultation.

How often will I need to visit the orthodontist for adjustments?
With traditional metal braces, regular visits to the orthodontist are necessary for adjustments and to monitor your progress. Typically, patients need to visit the orthodontist every 4-6 weeks. These appointments are crucial to ensure the braces are working effectively and to make any necessary adjustments to the wires and brackets.

Can I play sports or musical instruments with braces?
Yes, you can still participate in sports and play musical instruments while wearing braces. However, it's important to take certain precautions to protect your braces and your mouth. For sports, wearing a mouthguard is recommended to prevent damage to the braces and injury to your mouth. If you play a wind instrument, there may be an adjustment period, but you can still play with braces.

What should I do if a bracket or wire comes loose?
If a bracket or wire becomes loose or breaks, it's important to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that may cause discomfort. Avoid trying to fix the braces yourself, as this can cause further damage or prolong your treatment time.

In the past several years, the orthodontics industry has made significant improvements in orthodontic and dental care for patients of all ages. However, traditional braces are still one of the most popular treatments at Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates. Please get in touch with our office in Lancaster, PA to schedule a consultation with our pediatric dentists, and learn more about conventional metal braces and other orthodontic choices.