Accepting New Patients! San Francisco: 415-874-1677 Sonoma: 707-935-6878

The Pros and Cons of Braces: A Comprehensive Overview


June 28th, 2023

Are you considering braces to straighten your teeth? Understanding the pros and cons of braces before deciding on your orthodontic treatment is important.

In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the advantages and disadvantages of braces to help you make an informed decision.

What are braces?

Traditional braces are an orthodontic treatment that have been around for decades. They consist of brackets, bands, and wires attached to the teeth to shift them into the desired position gradually.

Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and are one of the most popular and effective treatments for correcting misaligned teeth. They can treat dental problems such as crowded or gapped teeth, overbite, underbite, and crossbite.

The Pros of Metal Braces

Metal braces have been the go-to option for orthodontic treatment for decades. Here are the top seven benefits of choosing metal braces:

1. Effective: Metal braces are an effective orthodontic treatment for fixing complex dental issues. They can treat many dental problems, including crooked teeth, gaps, overcrowding, and overbite or underbite.

2. Strong and durable: Metal braces are made of high-quality, strong, durable materials, ensuring that they last throughout your entire treatment process.

3. Affordability: Metal braces are typically less expensive than other orthodontic options, making them affordable for many families.

4. Customizable: Metal braces come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing you to choose a style that fits your personality and preferences.

5. Quick results: With metal braces, you can typically see results faster than with other orthodontic treatments. 

6. Precise adjustments: Metal braces allow your orthodontist to make precise adjustments to your teeth, ensuring your treatment plan is customized to your specific dental needs.

The Cons of Metal Braces

While metal braces have been a popular orthodontic treatment for decades, they do come with a few downsides that patients should consider before committing to treatment. Here are four of the main cons of metal braces:

1. Appearance: Many patients are self-conscious about the look of metal braces. They draw attention to the teeth, making some people feel less confident. While this may seem small, it is still a concern for many people.

2. Discomfort: Metal braces can sometimes be uncomfortable at the beginning. Patients may experience soreness, irritation, and even small cuts on their cheeks and lips due to the metal brackets and wires rubbing against their skin.

3. Difficulty Eating: Eating with metal braces can be an adjustment. Patients are often advised to avoid certain foods that are too hard or sticky, which can limit their diet and make meals less enjoyable. Additionally, food can become stuck in the braces.

4. Maintenance: Metal braces require patients to visit their orthodontist regularly to tighten and adjust their braces.

Final Thoughts

At Camilo Riaño Orthodontics in San Francisco, we understand that deciding to start orthodontic treatment is a big step. That’s why we want to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. While metal braces have been the go-to option for decades, alternative treatments are also available. 

Weighing the pros and cons of metal braces can help you decide if they are the right choice for you. Our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way, from consultation to follow-up care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and let us help you achieve your best smile!

Contact Camilo Riaño: Your San Francisco Orthodontist


77 Van Ness Ave #303
San Francisco, CA 94102

Office Hours


Mon: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Tues: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Wed: 9:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Thur: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM
Fri: 7:45 AM - 3:30 PM
Sat: By Appointment Only
Sun: Closed

© 2024 Camilo Riaño Orthodontics

Built with Connect the Doc