Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of braces for orthodontic patients. Today’s metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable than in the past. Patients of all ages choose metal braces to help them achieve straight, beautiful smiles.

WHAT BRACES
are made of

Traditional metal braces are made of high quality stainless steel or titanium. The three main parts of your braces are:

Brackets — Brackets are attached to the teeth using special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.
Archwire — The archwire is the thin metal wire that connects each bracket and puts pressure on the teeth to help guide them into place.
Ligature Elastic (also known as the “rubber bands”) — Elastics, or rubber bands, are the colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. Your orthodontist will change the elastics at each appointment. Elastics may come in a variety of colors.

How Braces Work

Once placed on your teeth, braces place constant pressure on your teeth, and the force of the pressure helps move teeth into proper position. At each appointment, your orthodontist may tighten the archwires. In addition to braces, some patients may need to wear rubber bands or headgear. Patients wearing braces may notice their teeth feeling a little loose. This is normal and temporary; once the teeth are done moving this feeling will go away.

Metal Braces For All Ages

Traditional metal braces are still the most popular, quickest, and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. Your orthodontist can help you determine what treatment is best for your individual case. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about how braces can enhance your smile.

FAQs About Metal Braces Orthodontics

Are today’s metal braces different from the ones parents remember?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T13:07:48+00:00

Are today’s metal braces different from the ones parents remember?

Oh, absolutely! If you haven’t seen braces in a while, you’ll be amazed by how much they’ve changed. Today’s traditional metal braces are sleeker, flatter, much more comfortable, and designed to look great. They are incredibly streamlined so they won’t irritate your cheeks or lips like older versions did, making the journey to a straight smile smoother than ever!

Can I customize the colors of my metal braces?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T13:08:10+00:00

Can I customize the colors of my metal braces?

Yes, and it’s one of the best parts! At every single checkup in our Chatham office, you get to pick new colors for your ligature elastics (the rubber bands that hold the wire to your brackets). You can rock your school colors, match holiday themes, or choose subtle shades – it’s completely up to you to design your smile style!

How do traditional metal braces actually straighten teeth?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T13:08:38+00:00

How do traditional metal braces actually straighten teeth?

It’s all about gentle, continuous teamwork! The high-quality brackets are safely bonded to your teeth, and a thin, flexible archwire connects them. This wire applies steady, gentle pressure to guide your teeth into their ideal positions. Every few weeks, you’ll visit us so Dr. Peterman can adjust the wire to keep your smile progress moving beautifully on track.

Is it normal for my teeth to feel a little loose during treatment?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T13:08:59+00:00

Is it normal for my teeth to feel a little loose during treatment?

Don’t panic! This is 100% normal and actually a great sign that your treatment is working! In order for your teeth to move into their perfect positions, the supporting bone and tissue need to gently relax and reshape. That slightly loose feeling is completely temporary and will disappear entirely once your teeth finish their journey and settle into place.

How do I know if metal braces are the right choice for me or my child?wpdevdentli2026-05-27T13:09:30+00:00

How do I know if metal braces are the right choice for me or my child?

Traditional metal braces are still the absolute gold standard because they are incredibly reliable, highly cost-effective, and powerful enough to fix even the most complex bite issues. If you or your child are deciding between metal braces, aesthetic Clear Braces, or removable Clear Aligners, we can help! Schedule a completely complimentary consultation at our office to build your custom smile plan.

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What Our Patients Say

    
 
 
        Claire Keller 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Peterman and his team are the best! They take every measure to help you achieve the goals you want and don’t stop until you are 100% satisfied. They are truly a lovely group and really care for your individuals needs. Could not recommend them more!
  
 
       Jeronimo Perez Correa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is one of the BEST practices I've ever encountered.
My son got braces a month ago and we couldn't be happier. Extremely professional whilst keeping a ver personal care for their patients.The entire staff is beyond hospitable and clearly know what they are doing.One of their advantages is their location in Chatham which is incredibly convenient, specially in emergencies and follow up appointments.
Dr JB Peterman is both knowledgable and experienced. He explains the whole process in detail and is always happy to answer any questions and respond to urgencies.
  
 
       Rebecca Pickett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My family loves Dr. Peterman and his team! I am so thankful that our dentist referred them. They welcomed us with positive energy and caring hearts every single visit. My son was not initially thrilled with the idea of braces, but they made it so fun and treated all of us like we were the only people in the office. He has a perfect smile just in time for Senior Pictures! And, now I get to start my journey too!
  
 
       Nicole Williams 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had such a great experience with Dr. Peterman and his amazing staff, Bree and Christian. Everyone was incredibly friendly, caring, and understanding from the moment I walked in. I needed to have my braces removed for my upcoming journey with the Navy, and to my surprise, Dr. Peterman himself was a former naval officer! He shared some great advice and made me feel confident and comfortable about the next steps ahead.
I truly appreciate the professionalism and kindness shown by the entire team — they go above and beyond for their patients. Highly recommend Dr. Peterman and his staff to anyone looking for quality orthodontic care!
  
 
       Vincent Boyle 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Peterman and his team are second to none!!! From the moment you walk in the door everything is first class. The office is impeccably clean, welcoming and comfortable. I was seated for my appointment promptly, and Dr Peterman helped me understand my orthodontic problems very concisely and offered me different options to achieve my goals. The office is also on the cutting edge of the latest and greatest technology like 3D printing so I didn’t have to take those awful impressions. Dr Peterman is incredibly kind, trustworthy, knowledgeable and just an overall good guy. If you or a family member need to pursue orthodontic care Dr Peterman is who you need to see!!!
  
 
       John Coughlan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience for my son. Dr Peterman told us everything he was going to do and the timeline. Great communication with my son. And teeth look awesome!
  
 
       Eric Shatashvili 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From the moment you walk in, you feel genuinely cared for. The staff is warm and professional, the clinic is spotless and modern. And that’s before you even meet Dr. Peterman — an exceptionally knowledgeable, kind, and caring doctor!
Highly recommend!
  
 
       Katie Polsky 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience at Dr. Peterman’s office! I needed my permanent retainer fixed quickly, and they were able to get me in right away. Bree at the front desk was amazing—so friendly, kind, and helpful. The entire staff was welcoming and made me feel comfortable from start to finish. Dr. Peterman himself was awesome—friendly, knowledgeable, and thorough. My wait time was short, parking was easy, and everything went well! I highly recommend Dr. Peterman and his team!
  
 
 
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 244 reviews