Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive than ever before.
What are metal braces?
Metal braces use small stainless-steel brackets bonded to the front of each tooth and connected by a thin archwire. Over your treatment, gentle, steady pressure from the wire guides your teeth into their correct positions.
They are the most time-tested and versatile way to straighten teeth — able to correct everything from mild crowding to complex bite problems in children, teens and adults. Modern brackets are far smaller and more comfortable than the braces of years past.
Book a complimentary exam to see if metal braces are right for you →
The benefits of metal braces
Works for every case
Metal braces can correct the widest range of orthodontic problems — from simple crowding to complex bite issues that clear aligners cannot treat.
The most affordable option
Traditional braces are typically the lowest-cost way to straighten teeth. We accept MassHealth and back our fees with a Price-Match Guarantee.
Strong and reliable
High-grade stainless-steel brackets and archwires are durable and stand up to everyday wear throughout treatment.
Make them your own
Choose from a range of colored elastic bands at each visit — a fun way for kids and teens to personalize their braces.
What to expect with metal braces
Complimentary consultation
We examine your bite, take any needed records, and explain your options in writing — no referral required and no obligation.
Placing your braces
Brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected by a thin archwire. The visit is comfortable and takes about an hour.
Regular adjustments
You return every few weeks so we can adjust the wire and guide your teeth into their new positions, changing your colored bands as you go.
Reveal and retain
When your bite is corrected, the braces come off and a custom retainer keeps your new smile in place.
Metal braces, answered.
Have a question we didn't cover? Bring it to your complimentary consultation — every initial exam includes time with the doctor.
Book a complimentary examDo metal braces hurt?
Getting braces on does not hurt. Your teeth may feel tender for a few days after placement and after each adjustment as they begin to move — this is normal and eases quickly. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods help during that period.
How long will I wear metal braces?
Treatment time depends on your individual case and how much correction is needed. At your complimentary consultation we review your bite and give you an estimated timeline in writing before you decide.
Can I choose the color of my braces?
Yes. At each adjustment visit you can pick new colored elastic bands. Many patients switch colors to match a season, a holiday, or their favorite team.
Can I eat normally with braces?
You can eat most foods, but avoid hard, sticky and chewy items that can break a bracket or bend a wire. See our Foods to Avoid page for the full list.
Do you accept MassHealth for braces?
Yes. The Braces Place accepts MassHealth, and our Price-Match Guarantee helps keep orthodontic care affordable across all six of our Boston-area offices.
Explore other treatments
Gold Braces
A premium finish on classic braces. Warm-toned brackets that complement most smiles.
Learn more →
Ceramic Braces
Tooth-colored brackets that blend in. The strength of metal braces with a far more discreet appearance.
Learn more →
Hidden Braces
Lingual braces placed behind your teeth. Completely invisible from the front.
Learn more →
Simple Aligners
A budget-friendly aligner option for smaller corrections. Faster timeline, lower cost.
Learn more →Invisalign®
Clear overlay aligner trays generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth — a discreet option for many adults.
Learn more →
Complimentary exam. No referral required.
Choose any of our six Boston-area offices. We'll evaluate your bite, walk you through the options, and put it all in writing — no pressure, no obligation.