TRADITIONAL BRACES IN ST. LOUIS

Durable, lightweight and more comfortable than ever

SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION
Dougherty Orthodontics

BREAKING DOWN YOUR BRACES

Traditional metal braces still remain the most popular method of orthodontic treatment today. Metal braces are durable, lightweight and more comfortable than in the past, making them a great choice for straightening your smile. Modern orthodontic materials yield sleeker, low-profile brackets and wires that enhance patient comfort throughout treatment. On the day you start treatment, Dr. Dougherty and her smile squad will explain all of the components of the braces, and the process, so you will understand how each part works to help create your smile. 

  • Brackets – small, metal or ceramic/clear brackets are bonded to the surface of each tooth and hold the archwires in place
  • Bands – thin, metal rings are placed on the back molars to provide an anchor for the archwires
  • Archwires – flexible, thin wire that is placed in the brackets and stretches around the arch from one band to the other. Archwires come in a variety of sizes and will be changed at each orthodontic visit.
  • Elastics (the fun part) – colorful, stretchy elastics are used to hold the archwire in place at each bracket. Your elastics will be changed at each visit and you can customize your colors and choose any color you wish.  

DO I NEED BRACES?


Did you know having straight teeth not only looks great, but also helps prevent cavities? Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and are therefore less prone to decay. Straight teeth also help the jaw to function properly during chewing, eating and speaking. There are many other benefits of orthodontic treatment including:

Closing gaps between the teeth

Making sure the tips of the teeth are aligned

Straightening crooked teeth

Improve speech or eating (oral function)

Improve the long-term health of gums and teeth

Prevent long-term excessive wear or trauma (of the teeth)

Treating an improper bite

Braces exert a gentle and consistent force on your teeth to guide them into the proper alignment. Each time you visit, Dr. Dougherty will examine the progress of your treatment and determine the next step. Most people wear them for approximately 2 years; however, some cases are shorter and some are longer, depending on your individual needs.

THE MANY BENEFITS OF BRACES

Self-esteem and confidence that come from looking one’s best are two important reasons to consider braces, but the benefits of braces go well beyond pure aesthetics. Braces ensure correct bite and tooth alignment which has many positive side-effects; including:

Improved ability to chew food
Alleviation of speech impairment
Easier to brush, clean and floss teeth
Reduced cavities and periodontal disease
Reduced grinding and chipping of teeth
Reduced risk of injury from protruding teeth

Braces can establish the foundation for a lifetime of improved oral health while helping you and your children look their best.

WE CAN’T WAIT TO MAKE YOU Smile !

SCHEDULE YOUR NEW PATIENT COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION TODAY!

OR

START MY VIRTUAL NEW PATIENT SMILE CONSULTATION

Call Us: 636.825.1000
Text Us: 636.825.1000

Monday 8am–5pm
Tuesday 8am–5pm
Wednesday 8am–5pm
Thursday 8am–5pm
Friday: Closed

2901 Dougherty Ferry Road, Suite 301
St. Louis, MO 63122