Creating Healthier Smiles With Traditional Braces
People of all ages have found traditional metal braces to be incredibly rewarding for a number of reasons. Children needing braces may be suffering from tooth or jaw pain, such as TMJ. Similarly, teens and adults may be looking to correct a set of teeth causing them discomfort or embarrassment about their appearance.
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces used to correct orthodontic issues and improve overall oral health. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive than ever before, making them an ideal option for many patients.
While we know that braces can help many people, it can be challenging to determine if this is your best option. This is when you know it's time to make an appointment with our orthodontist, Dr. McIntosh, who will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
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How Do Traditional Metal Braces Work?
Metal braces consist of three main components that work together to reposition your teeth:
Brackets
Small metal brackets are bonded directly to the front surface of each tooth using a specialized dental adhesive. They act as anchors throughout your treatment.
Arch Wires
High-grade stainless steel wires connect each bracket and apply the steady, controlled pressure needed to guide teeth into alignment.
Elastics
Ligature elastics hold the wire to each bracket. In some cases, interarch rubber bands are used to correct bite alignment and jaw positioning.
Patients visit our office every 6 to 8 weeks for adjustment appointments, which typically take 15 to 30 minutes. During each visit, Dr. McIntosh advances the wire tension to continue moving teeth toward their final position. Treatment generally spans 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Orthodontic Conditions Braces Can Correct
Traditional braces are a versatile treatment option capable of correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues. Dr. McIntosh regularly treats patients at both our Maitland and Winter Park locations for:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth (diastema)
- Overbite and underbite
- Crossbite and open bite
- Misaligned jaw (malocclusion)
- Protruding teeth
- Deep bite
- Complex cases not ideal for aligners
While Invisalign and other clear aligner systems work well for many patients, traditional braces remain the preferred choice for more complex alignment and bite correction cases. Dr. McIntosh will assess your specific needs and help you decide which treatment delivers the best results.
What to Expect From the Traditional Braces Process
Free Orthodontic Consultation
Dr. McIntosh evaluates your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment through a clinical exam and digital imaging. We discuss your goals, review treatment options, and provide a clear overview of treatment length, phases, and what results to expect.
Custom Treatment Planning
No two smiles are identical. Dr. McIntosh develops a personalized orthodontic treatment plan that maps each stage of tooth movement, ensuring the most efficient path to your ideal bite and smile.
Braces Placement
The placement appointment typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Brackets are bonded to your teeth, and the initial arch wire is placed. You may experience some soreness for the first few days as your mouth adjusts.
Regular Adjustment Visits
Every 6 to 8 weeks, you will return to our Maitland or Winter Park office for a quick adjustment. Dr. McIntosh advances the wire tension and monitors your progress. These visits generally take 15 to 30 minutes.
Braces Removal & Retention
Once your teeth have reached their final positions, your braces are removed, and your smile is revealed. You will receive a custom retainer to hold your new alignment and protect your investment long-term.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
Choosing traditional braces at McIntosh Orthodontics means partnering with a team that prioritizes your long-term oral health and smile confidence. Here is why so many families in the Orlando area choose us:
- Highly effective for all severity levels, from mild crowding to complex bite issues
- No need to remove aligners; braces work around the clock without patient compliance concerns
- Ideal for younger patients who may struggle with aligner discipline
- Precise control over tooth movement for predictable, lasting results
- Often more cost-effective than clear aligner therapy for complex cases
- Dr. McIntosh provides customized treatment plans tailored to each patient's anatomy
- Two convenient locations in Maitland and Winter Park — no long drives across Orlando
- Complimentary consultations so you can start informed, with no upfront risk
Traditional Braces With McIntosh Orthodontics
If you're considering traditional braces, this might just be the right option for you. The only way to determine this is with an orthodontic exam. For all new patients, we offer a complimentary consultation where we will evaluate your condition and discuss treatment options, length, cost, and more. We have two office locations across the Orlando area, including Winter Park and Maitland.
Request a Free Orthodontic Exam
Frequently Asked Questions
Do braces hurt?
The placement of braces is painless. You may experience some soreness or pressure in the first few days and after each adjustment appointment as your teeth begin to move. This discomfort is typically mild and temporary, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
Are traditional braces better than Invisalign?
Both are effective orthodontic treatments, but traditional braces offer advantages for more complex cases involving significant bite correction, severe crowding, or jaw alignment issues. Dr. McIntosh will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the approach best suited for your smile.
Can adults get traditional braces?
Absolutely. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. Many adults at our Maitland and Winter Park offices choose traditional braces for their reliability and effectiveness, especially when treating more involved alignment issues.
What can I eat with braces?
You will need to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage brackets or wires, such as popcorn, hard candy, ice, and gum. Soft foods, cooked vegetables, pasta, and most proteins are fine. Dr. McIntosh's team will provide a full list of dietary guidelines at your placement appointment.
Does McIntosh Orthodontics offer a free consultation for braces?
Yes. We offer complimentary orthodontic consultations at both our Maitland and Winter Park locations. During your visit, Dr. McIntosh will evaluate your teeth and bite, discuss treatment options, and answer all your questions — with no obligation to start treatment.
What happens after my braces are removed?
Once your braces come off, you will be fitted for a custom retainer to maintain your newly aligned smile. Wearing your retainer as directed is essential for preserving your results long-term. Dr. McIntosh will explain the retainer schedule during your treatment completion appointment.