Transform Your Smile

Say goodbye to crooked teeth and hello to a straight, beautiful smile with metal braces from Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Discover the transformative power of braces with Dr. Jarrett Caldwell in Washington, DC, and help your child or teen get the smile they deserve.

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces have been the trusted go-to for creating straighter teeth and stunning smiles for decades. They use high-quality stainless steel brackets that Dr. JC bonds to your teeth and connect with archwires.

Modern metal braces gradually guide your teeth into their proper positions, giving you a smile you'll love showing off. Dr. JC uses smaller, more comfortable brackets, so you'll have less irritation during treatment.

What Are Metal Braces Made of?

Brackets

Dr. JC places small metal brackets on the front of each tooth to be the anchor for your orthodontic treatment.

Wire

Next, he'll connect the brackets using a thin and flexible wire called an archwire. This wire guides your teeth into their proper positions as Dr. JC adjusts it according to your unique treatment plan. It puts pressure on the brackets, gradually moving your teeth into alignment.

Elastic Ligatures

During your treatment, Dr. JC may use small rubber bands called elastic ligatures. These bands come in different colors and hold the archwire in place on the brackets. Elastic ligatures provide extra force, helping to move your teeth into the correct positions.

Rubber Bands

If necessary, Dr. JC may use rubber bands to align your upper and lower jaws. These bands connect the upper and lower brackets, and apply pressure to pull your jaw forward or back for a better bite.

Spacers

Dr. JC uses these tiny elastic “donuts” or rings to create space between your teeth when needed, typically before we place your bands. People also refer to them as "separators.”

How Metal Braces Work

Metal braces in Washington, DC, are a great way to straighten your smile with precision. Before applying the brackets, Dr. JC and the Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics team will collect photos and X-rays of your mouth.

Sometimes we'll use our iTero Element scanner to scan each of your teeth and the layout of your gums and mouth. If necessary, this process takes 10-15 minutes and provides a highly accurate 3D view of your mouth.

After the X-Ray and optional scan, Dr. JC will use this information to create your customized treatment plan, including how each tooth needs to move to give you the best results.

Once he attaches your brackets, Dr. JC will insert the wire. Bends in the wire will provide different types of pressure on different teeth to create precise movements and straighten your smile.

Dr. JC will adjust your metal braces regularly to keep your teeth moving according to plan. This step-by-step process gradually shifts your teeth into proper alignment, giving you a smile you'll be proud of.

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Benefits of Metal Braces

Metal braces offer many benefits that can make a big difference in your smile. Here are some of the reasons why people around Washington, DC, love metal braces:

Durable & Strong

Metal braces are tough and can handle the usual things you do with your mouth, like eating and talking.

Personalized for You

Dr. JC will make sure your braces are just right for your teeth. He'll customize the treatment plan to fit your needs and give you the best results.

Effective Results

Metal braces can fix many problems, like crowded teeth or teeth that don't line up correctly. They've been proven to work well in the most complex cases and can give you a beautiful smile.

Affordable

Metal braces are often more affordable than other braces, making them a great choice for any budget.

Are Metal Braces Right for Me?

Wondering if metal braces are the right choice for you? Here are some things to consider:

  • Your Teeth: Metal braces are great for fixing many different dental problems, like crooked teeth, gaps, or bite issues.
  • Your Budget: Metal braces are often more affordable than other options. If cost is a concern, metal braces might be your choice.
  • Treatment Time: Depending on your specific needs, wearing metal braces may take some time. Dr. JC will give you an idea of how long your treatment might last before you start treatment.

At Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we're here to support you on your journey to a beautiful smile. Our friendly team will help determine if metal braces are the best option for you and guide you every step of the way.

Get Your Perfect Smile

Don't let crooked teeth stop you from smiling confidently. At Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we're excited to show you the amazing transformation that metal braces can bring.

Say goodbye to crooked teeth and hello to a smile that lights up the room. Contact our team today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a straighter, more confident smile.

Get ready to shine with your metal braces from Ivy City Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Let's make your dream smile a reality!