Traditional Braces
for a Straighter Smile
Get a straighter, healthier smile
with traditional braces—a reliable and effective orthodontic solution.
What are Traditional Braces?
Custom care for your braces journey
Western Dental offers an array of braces treatment options to patients throughout California and Arizona to help them achieve a straighter and healthier smile.
Stainless steel
braces
Durable metal brackets and wires work together to gently straighten your teeth.
Gold
braces
Add some shine with gold-plated brackets that offer the same reliable performance as stainless steel.
Braces care
kits
Support your smile during and after braces with dentist-recommended at-home care kits.
Braces Care: What to Expect
Getting braces is a straightforward process designed to guide you toward a healthier, more confident smile. From your first consultation to your final results, your orthodontic team will support you every step of the way with a personalized treatment plan and regular progress check-ins.
Are Braces Expensive?
The cost of braces can vary depending on your treatment needs and the type of braces you choose. Many practices offer flexible payment plans and financing options to help make treatment more affordable. Treatment often includes your exam, digital X-rays, routine adjustments, and retainers—though coverage can vary. Insurance and financing options may help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Your First Visit
Your journey starts with a comprehensive consultation. During this visit, your orthodontist will take digital X-rays, photos, and scans to evaluate your teeth and bite. You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan, timeline, and pricing options—often with the ability to begin treatment the same day.
Step-by-Step: Your Braces Journey
- Consultation & Exam – Review your smile, take images, and discuss treatment options.
- Custom Treatment Plan – Get a clear plan outlining timing, cost, and expected results.
- Braces Placement – Brackets and wires are placed to begin gently moving your teeth.
- Regular Adjustments – Visit your orthodontist periodically for adjustments and progress checks.
- Completion & Retainers – Once treatment is complete, retainers help maintain your new smile.
Life with Braces
As your teeth begin to shift, you may notice mild discomfort at times, especially after adjustments. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding certain foods, and attending regular appointments will help keep your treatment on track.
How Long Do Braces Take?
Braces treatment time varies based on your specific needs, but most patients wear braces for approximately 24 months. Minor alignment issues may take less time, while more complex cases involving bite correction can take longer. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized timeline during your consultation and track your progress with regular adjustments to keep treatment on schedule.
Convenience & Scheduling
Many orthodontic offices offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, to fit your routine. Some locations may also provide same-day starts or minimal wait times, making it easier to begin your smile journey when you’re ready.
Alternatives to Traditional Braces
Looking for a more discreet way to straighten your smile? Clear braces and aligners offer effective alternatives to traditional metal braces, using tooth-colored materials or removable trays to gradually shift teeth into place—often with less visibility and added convenience.
Life with braces: Care guide and FAQ
Getting braces is a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. From regular adjustments to at-home care and what to eat, our team is here to guide you through every stage of your braces journey.
Flexible payment
options for everyone
We accept most insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and Medicaid, and offer financing options to fit your budget. Whether you’re insured or not, we’ll help find a solution that works for you.
Hear what’s making our patients smile
Just came back from getting our braces. Wires done. Had a good time. A lot of explanation by the doctors got to pick out new colors. It’s a good time over here at Western Dental orthodontics.
I’ve had such a beautiful experience here. The ladies at the front desk are always so warm, welcoming, and effortlessly on top of everything—they truly set the tone the moment you walk in. As for my braces journey, the team has been nothing short of amazing. They’re precise, professional, and consistently deliver with care and excellence. I always feel taken care of, and their kindness never goes unnoticed. It’s rare to find a place that combines such high-level service with genuine energy—absolutely love it here. Thank you !
Communication was clear and organized—everything from my current treatment to upcoming appointments was explained in detail, so I always knew what to expect. Additionally, a specialist from the orthodontic section provided me with a free consultation for braces. She was extremely helpful, friendly, and took the time to carefully go over options for improving my smile.
Find an Orthodontist Near You
Traditional braces FAQs
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to gently shift your teeth into place over time. The wires apply constant, light pressure, gradually guiding your teeth into better alignment. Your orthodontist will make regular adjustments to keep your treatment on track.
Treatment time with traditional braces can range anywhere from 6 to 30 months, depending on your unique needs. Factors like age, bite complexity, and how consistently you follow your care plan all play a role. Your orthodontist will provide a personalized timeline during your consultation.
You might feel some soreness when your braces are first placed or adjusted, and they can sometimes dig into your lips or cheeks. These issues are usually temporary and manageable. Dental wax can help make things more comfortable as your mouth adjusts.
Stick to soft foods like rice, bananas, and yogurt—especially right after getting braces or having them adjusted. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires, like apples, candy, or popcorn. Your orthodontist will share a full list of what to skip and what’s safe to enjoy.
Braces can trap food and plaque, so it’s important to brush often and see your dentist regularly for cleanings. Your dental team may recommend an electric toothbrush and special enamel-strengthening paste to reduce sensitivity. We also offer at-home dental care kits designed to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.
Yes. Based on your clinical needs and lifestyle, you can select from traditional metal braces, more discreet ceramic braces, or clear aligners. Your orthodontist will recommend the best fit for effectiveness, aesthetics, and budget.