What Traditional Braces Are
Metal braces, sometimes affectionately called "train tracks," are the most common treatment for people with bite problems. They consist of small metal brackets attached to the surface of your teeth and joined by a wire. The braces apply gentle, steady pressure that guides your teeth into their desired positions, and the wire is adjusted at regular visits as your teeth move. At the end of treatment, a retainer is usually recommended because teeth can drift back toward their old positions.
Who Braces Can Help
- Patients with overbites, underbites or crossbites.
- Crowded or overlapping teeth.
- Gaps between teeth.
- More complex bite problems, where traditional braces are often the more effective option compared with clear aligners.
Orthodontic treatment is not age-specific, and both young people and adults can benefit. A consultation will show whether braces or Invisalign is the better fit.
How Treatment Works
- Assessment: your dentist determines the type of bite problem you have, such as a crossbite, underbite, overbite or crowding, and how severe it is.
- Records: X-rays and photographs of your mouth and face may be taken to plan treatment.
- Placing the braces: the position of each bracket and the wire is planned according to how your teeth need to move. Placing braces takes about 10 to 20 minutes.
- Adjustments: you return regularly so the wire can be adjusted as your teeth move.
- Finishing: when your teeth have reached their new positions, the braces are removed and a retainer is usually recommended.
What It Feels Like
You may start to feel soreness in your mouth a few hours after the braces are placed. This usually decreases a few days later. Over-the-counter pain relief can help, and your dentist can recommend what is best for you. You may also have some soreness after each adjustment.
Before Your Visit
- Have any cavities or gum problems treated first, if your dentist recommends it.
- Bring your insurance information.
- Think about your questions on cost, timeline and what to eat and avoid.
- Brush and floss thoroughly before your appointment.
After Your Treatment, and Between Visits
- Brush after meals and floss carefully around the brackets and wires. Special floss threaders or small brushes can help.
- Avoid very sticky, hard or chewy foods that can damage brackets and wires.
- Use orthodontic wax on any part of the braces that rubs your cheek.
- Wear any elastics or retainer as directed.
- Keep your adjustment appointments so treatment stays on schedule.
- If a wire pokes your cheek or a bracket comes loose, call us. See our emergency dentist page for what counts as an urgent braces problem. Call the clinic as well for swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding.
Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing
The cost of braces depends on your case and how long treatment takes. Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and you will receive a written cost estimate before treatment begins. We bill your insurance directly where orthodontic coverage applies, and financing options and monthly payment plans are available.
Why Choose Allard Station Dental for Braces
- Clear information on cost and timeline from the start.
- Both braces and Invisalign available, so you can compare options in one place.
- Prompt help for broken wires and loose brackets.
- Open seven days a week, with evening hours on weekdays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I need to wear braces?
It depends on how complex your case is. Your dentist will give you an estimated timeline after your exam.
Do braces hurt?
You can expect some soreness for a few days after they are placed and after adjustments. It generally eases, and over-the-counter pain relief can help.
What can I not eat with braces?
Avoid very hard, sticky or chewy foods that can damage brackets and wires. Your dentist will give you a full list when your braces are placed.
Are braces or Invisalign better?
Both work well. Invisalign is less noticeable, while traditional braces are still more effective for more complex bite problems. Your dentist will recommend what suits you.
Will I need a retainer after braces?
Usually yes. Teeth can move back toward their original positions, so a retainer helps keep your results.
What should I do if a bracket or wire breaks?
Call us right away. We handle braces problems quickly so your treatment stays on track.