Metal Braces

The process is simple and completely painless. During your appointment at Orthodontics by Dr. Ken Lawrence, our team will use a special polishing procedure on your teeth. For many comprehensive treatments, the computer-positioned brackets are then bonded to the teeth using a 3D printed transfer tray. This provides precise placement in less time than traditional methods. We'll place Phase I braces and some comprehensive treatments using the traditional direct bonding method.

We then attach the archwire between the braces and secure it in place with either colors selected by the patient or a method that blends in with the braces. The entire visit usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and you’ll leave with everything you need to care for your new braces.

Treatment time varies depending on your orthodontic needs, age, and consistency with care.

Most patients wear braces for 12–24 months, though Dr. Lawrence will provide a personalized timeline after your initial consultation with our team in our friendly Mentor office.

You’ll visit our Mentor office every six to ten weeks for quick check-ins and wire adjustments. These visits help ensure your braces are working effectively and your smile is progressing right on schedule. You will be seen by Dr. Lawrence at every visit.

Getting braces doesn’t hurt, though you may feel mild soreness or tightness for a few days after placement or adjustments. This is normal and a sign that your braces are working. You can manage any temporary discomfort with warm saltwater rinses (1 tsp of salt to 8 ounces of water) and/or over-the-counter pain relievers.

Keeping your braces clean is key to a healthy smile. Follow these essential tips from Dr. Lawrence:

• Brush after every meal, paying special attention around brackets and wires. The area between the brace and the gumline is what we call the “danger zone,” where plaque accumulation can quickly lead to enamel damage.
• At school or work, brush without toothpaste. It's important to remove accumulating plaque and food debris. Due to time constraints and lack of facilities, it is better to use a travel brush without paste than no cleaning at all.
• Use floss threaders, a platypus threader, or a water flosser to clean between teeth at least once a day, preferably before bed.
• Eliminate sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can damage your braces. Damaged braces lead to much longer time in treatment. These foods are reviewed at brace placement. THIS IS CRITICAL TO SUCCESS.
• Visit your primary dentist regularly for professional cleanings.

Brush four times a day—after each meal and before bed. This routine helps remove food particles and plaque that can collect around your brackets and wires. Morning and before-bed brushing should be done with toothpaste; the middle 2 brushings can be done with a brush only.

Yes! We are proud to have treated multiple professional and college athletes when they were growing up. If you play contact sports, wear an orthodontic mouthguard to protect your braces and teeth.

Do NOT use a custom-fitted mouthguard during orthodontic treatment; orthodontic mouthguards are designed to allow tooth movement to occur, while still providing the same protection.

Musicians may need a short adjustment period, but most are back to playing comfortably within days.

Absolutely! Continue seeing your dentist every six months for exams and cleanings. Regular visits help prevent cavities and gum issues, so your smile stays healthy throughout treatment. Some adults form tartar on their teeth rapidly and should see their hygienist for cleanings more often during braces.

Metal braces are ideal for all patients with crowding, spacing, bite problems, or misaligned teeth. They deliver precise, predictable results for both teens and adults.

Costs vary depending on your treatment complexity and length. During your free consultation, we’ll review the payment plan options with you. Orthodontics by Dr. Ken Lawrence offers extremely flexible financial solutions through OrthoFi so every patient can achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Orthodontics is an important investment in your health and we are here to answer all of your questions!