Local Orthodontics in Fort Smith, Arkansas
If you want to go the traditional route with braces or are afraid of losing removable aligners, our metal braces are perfect for you!
Traditional Metal Braces in Fort Smith, AR
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and probably the first thing you think of when you hear the word "orthodontics". With stainless steel brackets and archwires, metal braces straighten your teeth. Metal braces are more comfortable than they were a decade ago and are a great option for children and teenagers!
“We love Dr. Winborn’s office, the staff are always friendly and add a personal touch by not only remembering your name but asking about you and your family. Our daughter had braces done at the office and we are extremely pleased with the results. They pay close attention to the smallest detail and provide the best service. Best dentist office in the River Valley!”
Shawnda W.
How do traditional braces work?
Metal braces apply steady, gentle pressure to gradually move your teeth into the correct position. We place the metal brackets on your teeth with an adhesive. The archwire connects the brackets and works by applying the pressure needed to move the teeth into the new positions. Braces can correct a variety of problems including crooked teeth, crowding, a misaligned bite, and orthodontic issues that interfere with eating and speaking. Metal braces must be tightened periodically to keep sufficient pressure on your teeth. The amount of time metal braces need to be worn varies widely, depending on the amount of correction needed and the specific problems we are fixing.
How to care for your teeth when you have metal braces
Because the metal brackets are permanently on your teeth until they're removed at the end of your treatment, it's very important to brush and floss correctly or you will have discoloration on your teeth! Here are a few tips to have a pearly white smile once we take your braces off.
Brush your teeth twice a day (bonus points if you brush after you eat!)
To keep bacteria from forming in your mouth and around your brackets, it's important to brush your teeth at morning and at night. Make sure to thoroughly brush every nook and cranny of your mouth. Working around your braces can be difficult, which is why we also recommend an oral irrigator!
Floss at least once a day
Flossing correctly can prevent problems like tooth decay and bad breath. You can carry a travel size floss with you to school or work to dislodge any food that gets stuck in your teeth throughout the day.
Use a an oral irrigator
To remove additional plaque, consider buying an oral irrigator like a WaterPik. These wants emit water with moderate pressure that will dislodge any other food or bacteria from your gums and teeth. Even if you don't have time to floss one day, the oral irrigator can do a great job! (but it does not replace flossing)
Think about what you're eating
When wearing metal braces, you should avoid certain foods that might damage your braces. These include nuts, sticky candies, popcorn, raw vegetables, whole raw fruit, tough meat like steak, and peanut butter.
Add Style to Your Braces!
The fun part about metal braces is that you can add your own personal flare to them with colorful elastics. You can choose your favorite colors, your school colors, a favorite sports team, or change them for the holidays! We can change the color of elastics at every appointment, so you can have fun with them and look forward to your next visit. We love seeing what our patients come up with!
Business Hours
- Mon - Thu
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- Fri - Sun
- Closed