Traditional Braces El Paso
The Trusted Way to Straighten Smiles
Traditional braces are a trusted and versatile treatment that can help patients who are dealing with a wide variety of orthodontic concerns, ranging from moderate to more severe. They’re also what most people envision when they’re told they need orthodontic treatment with their iconic metal brackets and wires. To learn more about how our team can help straighten your smile, including whether you’re a good candidate for traditional braces in El Paso, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bowden today!
Why Choose Jim Bowden, DDS for Traditional Braces?
- We Accept Dental Insurance & Offer Flexible Financing
- Dual-Trained Dental Specialist with 30+ Years of Experience
- A Cool & Immersive Alien-Themed Office That’s Great for Kids!
How Do Traditional Braces Work?
Braces use a bracket and wire system to place a strategic and gentle amount of pressure onto the teeth to help them move. They’re an excellent option for adults and teenagers and can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns, making them slightly more versatile than clear aligners.
Dr. Bowden will adhere metal brackets to each of the teeth, which will hold an archwire in place that will extend across your entire row of teeth. The wire can be adjusted throughout your treatment as your teeth are shifting, allowing for the appliance to continue to shift them until they’re in their perfect places. Once your treatment is complete, we will remove the brackets and wires and give you a retainer to wear to help keep your teeth from shifting back into their original positions.
What Orthodontic Issues Can Braces Fix?
Braces tend to be less limited than clear aligners in the severity and complexity of orthodontic issues that they can treat. Dr. Bowden often recommends traditional metal braces when patients are showing signs of:
Bite Misalignment
Moderate to severe bite problems like overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite can impact the health of the jaw joints and lead to cascading issues, such as TMJ disorder. By addressing these issues as soon as possible, adults and teens alike can improve their oral health and function and prevent further harm.
Crowded & Crooked Teeth
Crowded and crooked teeth overlap and create crevices for plaque and tartar to accumulate in. By straightening the teeth, they become much easier to clean, reducing your risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and other common dental problems.
Misspaced Teeth
Gapped and misspaced teeth can make both teens and adults feel not as confident in their smiles. Bringing the teeth into uniform alignment, our team can help boost your confidence and improve your oral health.
Caring for Your Braces
Once you have your braces on, you’ll need to make some small adjustments to your habits and routine to keep your smile healthy and prevent a bracket or wire from breaking. Here are a few tips to help you care for your braces during your treatment:
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and after each meal, and flossing daily.
- Use specialized flossers as needed to reach under your archwire.
- Avoid eating foods that are sticky and hard.
- Don’t chew on hard objects like pencils or chew ice.
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ins and bi-annual checkups and cleanings.