Metal braces are very strong and correct most types of orthodontic bite problems. At first, they may irritate your cheeks or gums. However, after a few weeks, your mouth will adjust.
Most traditional metal braces require an elastic o-shaped rubber band, called a ligature, to hold the arch wire onto the bracket.
Metal braces are a reliable, time-tested way to straighten teeth, improve bite alignment, and help children, teens, and adults feel more confident about their smiles.
Fry Orthodontics has helped more than 50,000 Kansas City families, including 40,000+ braces patients, receive expert orthodontic care close to home.
Not sure if braces are the right fit? A free exam gives you a clear recommendation, personalized treatment options, and answers about cost, timing, and next steps.
Choosing orthodontic care for your child should not feel overwhelming. You want someone close to home, on time, and genuinely invested in your family — not just filling a chair.
Since 1977, Fry Orthodontics has helped Kansas City families build confident smiles with doctor-owned care, convenient locations, and a team that knows how to make the braces process feel simple and supportive.
Your smile is just the start.
Metal braces can be an effective option for many orthodontic concerns, especially when precise tooth movement is needed. The right choice depends on your age, bite, alignment, treatment goals, and lifestyle.
Braces can help create space and improve alignment when teeth overlap or feel crowded.
Metal braces may help close gaps between teeth and create a more balanced smile.
Overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite concerns may be improved with braces treatment.
Metal braces remain one of the most trusted orthodontic treatments because they are durable, efficient, and capable of correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns.
Metal braces have helped millions of patients achieve healthier smiles and improved bite alignment.
Unlike removable aligners, braces work around the clock without relying on daily wear habits.
Metal braces can often address more advanced alignment and bite concerns with precise tooth movement.
Metal braces give your orthodontist precise control over tooth movement from start to finish.
Braces are often a strong option for kids and teens because treatment stays in place all day.
Your treatment is guided by experienced orthodontists, not a corporate system.
Many patients begin braces during the teen years, but metal braces can be effective for patients of many ages. For children and teens, braces can guide teeth and bite alignment during an important stage of growth.
For adults, braces can address long-standing alignment concerns and support better smile confidence. During your free exam, our team will explain whether metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign best fits your needs.
Braces treatment is planned step by step so you understand what is happening, why it matters, and what comes next.
Start with a digital scan, smile evaluation, and conversation about your goals.
Your orthodontist reviews treatment options, timing, and payment choices.
Regular check-ins keep treatment on track and your smile moving forward.
The cost of metal braces varies based on the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. During your free exam, Fry Orthodontics provides a personalized estimate and reviews available payment options.
Many families use flexible payment plans to spread out the cost of treatment. Our team will help you understand your options so you can move forward with confidence.
Both metal braces and Invisalign can create beautiful, healthy smiles. The right choice depends on your orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and treatment goals. During your free exam, your orthodontist will help you decide which option is the best fit.
For many children and teens, metal braces remain one of the most effective and predictable orthodontic treatment options. Invisalign may be a great choice for teens and adults seeking a more discreet appearance. During your free exam, your Fry Orthodontics doctor will explain the pros and cons of each treatment and recommend the option that best fits your smile goals.
Thousands of families have trusted Fry Orthodontics with their braces journey. Here’s what a few of them had to say.
"Loved working with Fry, they were always able to get us in promptly. Very friendly and made it an easy experience. Most importantly, my son's teeth look wonderful!"
"Huge thank-you to Ashley and the Fry Orthodontics team! Just got my braces off and I’m so grateful for the incredible care this past year. Highly recommend!"
"From beginning to end, our braces experience was pretty great. We always got in quickly, had excellent care, friendly employees, and in the end (shorter than predicted) a wonderful smile!"
"Fry gets the job done with excellence! My braces just came off after almost 2 years and my teeth look terrific."
Fry Orthodontics offers metal braces across Kansas. Choose a convenient location and start with a free exam near you.
Fry Orthodontics also serves Missouri patients looking for braces treatment near Kansas City and surrounding communities.
Since 1977, Fry Orthodontics has helped more than 50,000 Kansas City families build healthier, more confident smiles. Our team has completed more than 40,000 braces cases while remaining what we've always been: a doctor-owned orthodontic practice focused on doing what's right for patients.
With 14 convenient locations across Kansas and Missouri, experienced orthodontists, and an average treatment time of approximately 18 months, we make braces treatment easier for busy families while delivering the results they expect.
Having a pretty smile is important because your smile can impact other people. A bright smile can help others have a better day! The staff members at Fry Orthodontics always make me feel really special and they always have a bright smile when I come for my appointments.
– Destiny
Having braces in high school isn’t really a big deal because everyone has them and it’s fun to show off your teeth with all your cool colors. -Austin
I am excited about getting braces at Fry Orthodontics because I have seen how much my brother’s teeth have changed, and I want my teeth to be straight like his. -Zack
– Austin and Zack
Answers to common questions about cost, treatment time, comfort, food, appointments, and what to expect.
The cost depends on treatment complexity, treatment length, insurance benefits, and payment preferences. Fry Orthodontics provides a personalized estimate during your free exam.
Metal braces and Invisalign can both be effective. Braces may be recommended for complex bite concerns or for patients who prefer a treatment option that does not require removable aligners.
Treatment time varies by patient. Fry Orthodontics has an 18-month average treatment time, but your orthodontist will provide a personalized estimate based on your smile.
Braces can cause temporary soreness after placement or adjustments, but most patients adjust quickly. Our team will explain what to expect and how to stay comfortable during treatment.
Patients with braces should usually avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage brackets and wires. We provide simple guidelines before treatment begins.
The right age depends on your child’s growth, tooth development, and bite. Many children are evaluated around age 7, but braces may begin later depending on what the orthodontist finds.
Yes. Adults can choose metal braces to improve alignment, bite function, and smile confidence. Fry Orthodontics treats children, teens, and adults across Kansas and Missouri.
Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, but coverage varies. During your free exam, our team can help review your benefits and explain available payment options.
Most patients visit periodically throughout treatment so the orthodontist can check progress and make adjustments. Your exact appointment schedule depends on your treatment plan.
Yes. Children and teens can usually continue playing sports with braces. A mouthguard may be recommended to help protect the teeth, lips, cheeks, and braces during contact activities.
Patients should brush carefully around brackets, wires, and the gumline. Our team will show you how to clean around braces and may recommend special tools to make brushing easier.
No referral is needed. You can schedule a free first visit directly with Fry Orthodontics at any Kansas or Missouri location.
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