Orthodontics

Traditional braces — refined over 37 years.

Metal brackets and archwires remain the most reliable way to move teeth for the bites that need them. Brought up to current standards.

Schedule a consultation

What it is

Traditional braces — the plain-English version.

Traditional braces use small metal brackets bonded to each tooth and a thin archwire connecting them. The wire applies steady, gentle pressure that moves the teeth into position over months. They're the most predictable option for complex bites — and they're still our first recommendation when the alignment calls for it.

Overview

How treatment works.

  • Metal brackets bonded to the front of each tooth.
  • A flexible archwire connects the brackets and is adjusted at each visit.
  • Treatment typically runs 18 – 30 months depending on bite complexity.
  • Elastics may be added for bite correction at certain stages.

Is this for you

When traditional braces are the right call

  • Complex bite issues that aligners can't fully address.
  • Significant rotations or vertical movement of teeth.
  • Patients who would rather not manage removable aligners.
  • Cases where treatment predictability matters more than aesthetics.

The visits

What the process actually looks like.

Step-by-step, so there are no surprises at the chair.

  1. Consultation and x-rays

    We take panoramic and intraoral x-rays, discuss the bite, and walk through what treatment will look like — including the timeline and what your insurance covers.

  2. Bonding day

    Brackets are bonded to each tooth and the first archwire is placed. No anesthesia required. Plan for about an hour in the chair.

  3. Adjustments every 4 – 8 weeks

    Short visits — usually 15 to 30 minutes — to swap or tighten the wire and check progress.

  4. Retention

    Once teeth are in position, a retainer holds them there. Most patients wear a retainer nightly long-term — that's how the result is kept.

Common questions

Frequently asked.

  • How long does treatment take?

    Most cases run 18 – 30 months. Simpler alignment can finish faster; complex bites take longer. We give you a specific estimate at the consultation.

  • Do braces hurt?

    There's soreness for a few days after bonding and after each adjustment — over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods handle it. After the first week it's manageable.

  • Can I still play sports or instruments?

    Yes. A mouthguard is recommended for contact sports. Wind-instrument players adjust within a couple of weeks.

Related care

You may also want to read about.

Aesthetic braces

Clear, gold, and rose gold options for a discreet finish.

Learn more

Invisalign

Removable clear aligners — 3D scan, no putty.

Learn more

Invisalign Teen

Certified Invisalign Teen provider — designed around growing teeth.

Learn more

Next step

  • Since 1989
  • Private treatment rooms
  • TMJ & complex cases
  • Bilingual · English / Spanish
  • Multi-generational families
Dr. Guy Mendivil, founding orthodontist

Talk through traditional braces at a consultation.

Bring your insurance card. We will walk through the bite, the timeline, and what is covered before any treatment starts.

Schedule a consultation