orthodontist Leesburg VA

Metal Braces

Conventional metal braces remain the most reliable and time-tested way to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. Thanks to modern orthodontic technology, today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before — making them an excellent choice for patients of all ages in Ashburn, Woodbridge, and Alexandria, Virginia.

What Are Metal Braces?

Metal braces use two main components — brackets bonded to each tooth and a thin archwire threaded through them — to apply gentle, consistent pressure that gradually moves teeth into their correct positions. As the wire creates pressure on one side of the tooth, the surrounding bone remodels, allowing the tooth to shift while new bone grows to support it in its new position. Metal braces are the most affordable orthodontic treatment option and offer the fastest treatment times of any fixed appliance system. Typically, treatment lasts between 18 and 36 months, depending on the complexity of each individual case.

How Do Metal Braces Work?

Metal braces work through a controlled, continuous force system. The orthodontist bonds small metal brackets directly onto each tooth using a dental adhesive. A thin metal archwire is then threaded through all the brackets and secured in place, usually with small elastic ties called o-rings.

Elastics (rubber bands) are often used in conjunction with braces to apply additional force across the jaw — helping to correct bite alignment issues such as overbite or underbite. Elastics must be worn consistently and replaced every day to maintain the proper level of force. Your compliance with wearing elastics directly impacts the length and success of your treatment.

Throughout treatment, you will visit Dr. Hessamfar approximately every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments, where the wire is tightened or replaced to continue guiding your teeth into their ideal position.

Dr. Ron Hessamfar DMD MS orthodontist at American Braces and Smile Center Northern Virginia

Pros and Cons of Metal Braces

Pros

  • Most affordable orthodontic treatment option
  • Fastest treatment times compared to other types of fixed braces
  • Strong and durable — metal brackets rarely break under normal use
  • No staining — unlike ceramic brackets, metal does not discolor
  • Effective for all complexity levels, including severe misalignment and complex bite corrections
  • Widely covered by dental insurance plans

Cons

  • More visible than clear, ceramic, or lingual options — though many patients embrace the look
  • May cause initial cheek and lip irritation in the first 1–2 weeks as the mouth adjusts
  • Requires careful brushing and flossing around brackets and wires to maintain hygiene
  • Certain hard, sticky, or crunchy foods must be avoided during treatment
Metal braces clear braces and Invisalign options at ABSC Orthodontics Ashburn VA

Are Metal Braces Right for You?

Metal braces are an excellent option for patients of any age — children, teenagers, and adults — particularly those who need moderate to complex correction of misaligned teeth, spacing issues, crowding, or bite problems. They are often the strongly recommended option for complex alignment cases where precise, controlled tooth movement is essential.

If you are cost-conscious, want the most efficient treatment timeline, or have a case that requires significant correction, metal braces are almost certainly the right choice. If you are concerned about appearance during treatment, ABSC also offers alternatives — see clear braces, lingual braces, and self-ligating braces for other options.

What to Expect at Your First Consultation

The right treatment can only be determined after an in-person evaluation with Dr. Hessamfar. During your initial orthodontic consultation, Dr. Hessamfar will examine your teeth and jaw, take X-rays, and assess exactly which issues need to be corrected. Based on this evaluation, he will diagnose your case and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.

Braces are typically applied at a follow-up appointment after your initial consultation. During that visit, you and Dr. Hessamfar will confirm the treatment plan and begin the bonding process. Most bonding appointments take between 1 and 2 hours.

Your first consultation at ABSC is completely free — there is no cost or obligation to get started.

Why Choose ABSC Orthodontics for Metal Braces?

At ABSC, Dr. Ron Hessamfar brings over 20 years of orthodontic experience to every patient’s treatment. His expertise in managing complex cases ensures that your metal braces treatment is precisely planned and carefully monitored from start to finish. ABSC has been recognized as a Top Orthodontist by Northern Virginia Magazine and Washingtonian Magazine, and as Best Orthodontist in Prince William and Loudoun County.

  • Board-eligible orthodontist with 20+ years of clinical experience
  • Three conveniently located offices in Ashburn, Woodbridge, and Alexandria
  • Flexible financing options available to fit your budget
  • iTero digital scanning for precise treatment planning — no uncomfortable impressions
  • Free initial consultation for all new patients
Metal braces clear braces and Invisalign options at ABSC Orthodontics Ashburn VA

Three Convenient Locations Serving Northern Virginia

Patients throughout Northern Virginia can receive metal braces treatment at any of our three offices. Each location offers the same high standard of care from Dr. Hessamfar and his expert team.

  • Metal braces in Ashburn, VA
  • Metal braces in Woodbridge, VA
  • Metal braces in Alexandria, VA

We serve patients across Loudoun County, Prince William County, and Fairfax County — including Leesburg, Manassas, Dale City, Reston, Herndon, Chantilly, and Sterling. Call us at 703-726-6561 or book your free consultation online today.

braces cost in Virginia

Explore All Braces Options at ABSC

Not sure if metal braces are the right fit for your lifestyle? ABSC offers several types of braces so you can choose the option that best matches your needs and preferences.

  • Clear Braces — Tooth-colored ceramic brackets that are far less noticeable than metal
  • Lingual Braces — Completely hidden brackets that sit behind your teeth
  • Self-Ligating Braces — A band-free system that reduces friction and can shorten treatment time

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Braces

Treatment time typically ranges from 18 to 36 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Mild corrections can be completed in less time, while severe misalignment or bite issues may take longer. Dr. Hessamfar will give you a realistic timeline estimate at your consultation.

Yes — metal braces are the most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. They are also the most commonly covered by dental insurance plans. ABSC offers flexible payment plans and financing options to make treatment accessible for every family.

Some soreness is normal in the first 3 to 5 days after getting braces and after adjustment appointments. This is a sign the teeth are moving — it is expected and temporary. Over-the-counter Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage discomfort. Avoid Ibuprofen (Advil) and Aspirin, which can slow tooth movement.

You should avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires — including popcorn, hard candy, gum, ice, bagels, and raw carrots. Soft foods are recommended in the first few days after getting braces or following an adjustment visit.

Most patients visit ABSC every 4 to 6 weeks for routine adjustment appointments. These visits keep your treatment progressing on schedule and allow Dr. Hessamfar to monitor your progress and make any necessary changes to the wire or treatment plan.

Absolutely. Metal braces are effective for patients of all ages. Many adults at ABSC choose metal braces because of their efficiency and affordability, particularly for cases that require significant correction.

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What ABSC Patients Are Saying

“Dr. Hessamfar is a really great orthodontist… he has done a great job with my braces, I would highly recommend him to others.” — Jadyn Cunningham, Google Review (Ashburn)

Dr. Ron Hessamfar is a board-eligible orthodontist with more than 20 years of clinical experience treating patients of all ages across Northern Virginia. His precise, personalized approach ensures every patient receives the right treatment — not a generic plan. ABSC has earned recognition as a Top Orthodontist by Northern Virginia Magazine, Washingtonian Magazine, and is consistently voted Best Orthodontist in Prince William and Loudoun County. Read more patient reviews here.

Ready to Get Started? Book Your Free Consultation.

To find out if metal braces are the right option for you or your child, contact ABSC to schedule a free orthodontic consultation with Dr. Hessamfar at one of our three Northern Virginia offices.

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Happy patient with straight teeth after braces treatment at ABSC Orthodontics in Ashburn Virginia