Proven Precision
Brackets and wires give your orthodontist direct control over individual tooth movement and bite correction throughout treatment.
Personal guidance at every visit Your treatment is planned and monitored by Dr. Joel Brodsky and Dr. Charles Brodsky.
A classic treatment, completely evolved
Reliable Tooth Movement With a Modern Feel
Traditional braces use small metal brackets and a carefully shaped archwire to guide teeth into healthier, more balanced positions. Because the appliance stays in place throughout treatment, it works continuously without requiring you to remember to put anything back in after meals or activities.
Modern miniature brackets are lower-profile than the braces many parents remember. They are designed for durability, precise control, and versatility across a wide range of orthodontic needs, from straightforward spacing or crowding to more complex bite correction.
At Brodsky Orthodontics, every braces plan is personalized by Dr. Joel Brodsky or Dr. Charles Brodsky. We consider your teeth, bite, facial balance, growth, lifestyle, and long-term stability before recommending the treatment that best supports your smile.
Your complimentary consultation includes a personalized comparison of traditional braces, clear braces, and Invisalign® treatment.
Why patients choose metal braces
Built for Control. Designed for Confidence.
Traditional braces remain a trusted orthodontic workhorse because they combine precise treatment mechanics, dependable wear, and room for personal expression.
Built-In Consistency
Because braces stay on your teeth, treatment continues around the clock without daily wear-time decisions or removable appliances to track.
Make It Yours
Choose elastic colors that match a school, team, holiday, favorite shade, or mood, or keep the look simple with a neutral option.
The system behind the smile
Small Parts Working Together With Purpose
Traditional braces are a coordinated system. Each component has a specific job, and your Brodsky orthodontist adjusts that system over time to guide your smile toward its planned result.
Brackets
Small high-grade metal attachments bonded to the front of each tooth.
Archwire
The shaped wire that delivers gentle pressure and guides tooth movement.
Elastic Ties
Tiny elastics that help hold the wire in place and add customizable color.
Rubber Bands
When prescribed, removable elastics help guide the upper and lower bite together.
Living confidently with braces
A Few New Habits Protect Your Progress
Braces fit into everyday life with a little preparation. Our team shows you exactly how to eat, clean, and stay active while keeping treatment moving forward.
01
Choose Braces-Friendly Foods
Enjoy softer foods and cut firm items into bite-size pieces. Avoid hard, sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods that can loosen brackets or bend wires.
02
Keep Every Surface Clean
Brush carefully around brackets, wires, and the gumline, and floss between every tooth. We will demonstrate techniques and tools that make the routine easier.
03
Stay Active With Protection
Sports, instruments, school, work, and travel can all continue. Use a braces-friendly mouthguard for contact activities and contact us when something feels wrong.
Your braces journey
Three Steps Closer to Your Best Smile
Getting started is straightforward. We combine a complete evaluation, clear communication, and personalized treatment planning so you know what comes next.
01
Free Smile Consultation
Meet the team, share your goals, and receive a complete orthodontic evaluation from Dr. Joel Brodsky or Dr. Charles Brodsky.
02
Your Personalized Plan
Review your diagnosis, treatment choices, estimated timeline, financial options, and the recommendation designed for your smile.
03
Begin Your Transformation
When you are ready, your braces are placed and your team guides you through care, appointments, and every milestone ahead.
1976
Serving Lakewood since
30,000+
Smiles transformed
2
Father-and-son orthodontists
Trusted for generations. Designed for today.
Experienced Braces Care From a Family Lakewood Trusts
Brodsky Orthodontics pairs a long local legacy with modern treatment planning, advanced technology, and personal attention. Dr. Joel Brodsky and Dr. Charles Brodsky are involved in your care and committed to creating a result that is healthy, stable, and unmistakably yours.
Board-certified orthodontic specialists
Personalized care for children, teens, and adults
Digital scans and modern treatment technology
Flexible payment options and insurance support
Your treatment. Your choice.
The Best Appliance Is the One That Creates Your Best Result
Traditional braces are dependable, versatile, and effective for a broad range of orthodontic needs. But the most important decision is not choosing an appliance from a list. It is choosing a treatment plan built around your specific teeth, bite, goals, and lifestyle.
During your free consultation, we will explain what braces can accomplish in your case, answer your questions clearly, and compare every appropriate option. You will leave with a personalized recommendation and a path forward you can feel confident about.
Traditional braces FAQ
Straight Answers Before You Begin
These are some of the questions Lakewood and Long Beach families ask most often about metal braces. Your consultation is the best place to get answers specific to your smile.
Have a general orthodontic question? Visit our full FAQ page.1. How do traditional metal braces work?
Traditional braces use brackets bonded to the teeth and an archwire that applies gentle, controlled pressure. Your orthodontist adjusts the system over time so the teeth and bite move toward their planned positions.
2. Who is a good candidate for traditional braces?
Traditional braces can be appropriate for children, teens, and adults and can treat a broad range of crowding, spacing, and bite concerns. Brodsky Orthodontics will evaluate your teeth, bite, dental development, and goals before recommending treatment.
3. How long will I need to wear braces?
Treatment length depends on the complexity of your bite, the amount of tooth movement needed, growth, and how well you follow care instructions. You will receive a personalized estimate at your complimentary consultation.
4. How often are braces appointments?
Many patients visit Brodsky Orthodontics approximately every four to six weeks for progress checks and adjustments, although the timing may vary based on your individual treatment plan.
5. Do braces hurt?
It is common to have temporary tenderness after braces are placed or adjusted. Most patients describe pressure or soreness rather than sharp pain, and the mouth generally adapts as treatment continues. Orthodontic wax can help with occasional cheek or lip irritation.
6. What foods should I avoid with braces?
Avoid hard, sticky, chewy, or crunchy foods that can loosen brackets or bend wires. Foods that require biting directly with the front teeth should be cut into smaller pieces. Brodsky Orthodontics will provide detailed food guidance when treatment begins.
7. How do I brush and floss with braces?
Brush carefully around the brackets, wires, and gumline after meals whenever possible, and floss between every tooth each day using the method recommended by the Brodsky Orthodontics team. Regular dental cleanings remain important during orthodontic treatment.
8. Can I play sports or musical instruments with braces?
Yes. Most patients continue sports and music throughout treatment. A braces-friendly mouthguard is recommended for contact sports, and musicians may need a brief adjustment period. Ask the team for personalized guidance.
9. How much do traditional braces cost at Brodsky Orthodontics?
The cost depends on the complexity and length of treatment. Brodsky Orthodontics provides a personalized fee estimate before treatment begins and offers flexible payment options. The team can also help review available orthodontic insurance benefits.
10. Will I need retainers after braces?
Yes. Retainers help hold the teeth in their finished positions after active orthodontic treatment. Brodsky Orthodontics will provide a personalized retainer plan and wear schedule when your braces are removed.