Metal Braces in Los Angeles
Metal braces are still the most reliable way to straighten teeth and fix bite problems. At Textbook Orthodontics, Dr. Nathan Nourian places metal braces for kids, teens and adults at our offices in Panorama City, Hawthorne, Whittier and Los Angeles. They are durable, they work for complex bites, and they are the most budget-friendly type of braces we offer.
How Metal Braces Work
Metal braces have three parts. Small stainless steel brackets are bonded to each tooth. A thin archwire runs through the brackets and is shaped to the position we want your teeth to end up in. Elastics (rubber bands) are added when your bite needs extra guidance. Together they apply steady, gentle pressure that moves teeth into place over time.
What Metal Braces Can Fix
Metal braces can correct crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites and deep bites. Because they stay on your teeth around the clock and give Dr. Nourian precise control over every tooth, they are often the best choice for more complicated cases.
Metal Braces vs Clear Braces vs Invisalign
Metal braces are the strongest and most budget-friendly option, and the colored bands let kids and teens have some fun with them.
Clear ceramic braces work the same way but use tooth-colored brackets, so they are much harder to notice.
Invisalign uses removable clear aligners. It suits many mild to moderate cases, but you have to wear the aligners most of the day for them to work.
Not sure which is right for you? Read our Invisalign vs braces guide or ask Dr. Nourian at your consultation.
Metal Braces for Kids, Teens and Adults
Metal braces are the most common choice for children and teens because they hold up well to busy, active lives. Adults choose them too, especially when the bite needs significant correction. See kids braces, adult braces and ceramic braces for teens for more.
Life With Metal Braces
The first few days. Your teeth may feel sore at first. Soft foods help while you adjust.
Food. Avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods that can break a bracket or bend a wire.
Cleaning. Brush after meals and floss daily. We will show you how to clean around your brackets.
Adjustments. You will come in every 4 to 8 weeks so Dr. Nourian can adjust your braces.
Sports. Wear a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces.
See our full braces care guide for more tips.
Getting Metal Braces at Textbook Orthodontics
It starts with a free consultation, where Dr. Nourian checks your teeth and bite and explains your options. In many cases you can get your braces the same day. After treatment, a retainer keeps your teeth in their new position. For pricing and payment options, see our braces cost page.
Metal Braces FAQs
How long do metal braces take?
Most treatments last between 12 and 24 months. Dr. Nourian will give you an estimate for your case at your consultation.
Do metal braces hurt?
You may feel pressure and some soreness for a few days after your braces go on and after adjustments. It passes quickly, and soft foods help.
Are metal braces better than clear braces?
Both move teeth the same way. Metal braces are a little stronger and the most budget-friendly; clear braces are much harder to see. Dr. Nourian will recommend the best fit for your bite and lifestyle.
Does Medi-Cal cover metal braces?
Medi-Cal can cover braces for children who meet its criteria. Read does Medi-Cal cover braces to learn more.
Where can I get metal braces near me?
We have four offices in Los Angeles County: Panorama City, Hawthorne, Whittier and Los Angeles (Western Ave).
Our Locations
Panorama City: 8424 Van Nuys Blvd, Panorama City, CA 91402. Call (818) 510-3440.
Hawthorne: 14248 Hawthorne Blvd, Hawthorne, CA 90250. Call (310) 751-3098.
Whittier: 14564 Whittier Blvd, Whittier, CA 90605. Call (562) 693-8202.
Los Angeles: 1563 S. Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90006. Call (213) 933-6370.