What Are Braces and What Can They Fix?
Braces are fixed orthodontic appliances — bonded to the teeth for the duration of treatment — that use brackets, archwires, and elastic bands to gradually apply controlled force to move teeth into correct alignment. Braces are the most versatile orthodontic treatment available, capable of correcting a broad range of alignment and bite issues.
Is Traditional Braces right for you? Signs, symptoms & candidacy.
Recognizing the signs early makes treatment simpler. Here’s what we look for — and the surest way to know is a quick exam with a Boca dentist.
Issues Braces Can Correct
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps and spaces between teeth
- Overbite (upper teeth significantly overlap lower)
- Underbite (lower teeth extend in front of upper)
- Crossbite (upper and lower teeth don't align correctly side to side)
- Open bite (front teeth don't meet when back teeth are closed)
- Crooked or rotated teeth
- Midline misalignment
- Complex bite issues that are beyond the capability of clear aligners
How Braces Treatment Works at Boca in Reno
Free Orthodontic Consultation
Exam, X-rays, and a digital scan or impressions. Assessment of alignment, bite, and jaw development, with treatment options (braces vs. Invisalign) and timeline discussed.
Records Appointment
Photographs, full X-rays, and digital scans for precise treatment planning.
Braces Placement
Brackets are bonded to the teeth with dental adhesive and an archwire is threaded through them. Takes 60–90 minutes.
Regular Adjustment Appointments (Every 6–8 Weeks)
The archwire is changed or adjusted to continue moving teeth, elastic bands are replaced, and progress is evaluated. Takes 20–45 minutes.
Debonding (Removal)
Brackets are removed and teeth are cleaned and polished. Typically 60 minutes.
Retainers
Custom retainers are placed immediately after braces are removed to hold the result.
Average treatment time is 18–24 months for most cases.
Benefits of Braces
Corrects Any Complexity
The most versatile option — handles simple to severe alignment and bite issues, including cases beyond clear aligners.
Always Working
Fixed to the teeth, so they work continuously without relying on wear-time compliance.
All Ages
Effective for children, teens, and adults.
Cost-Effective
Typically the lower-cost orthodontic option, with metal braces the most cost-effective.
Personalized for Kids & Teens
Colored elastic bands let kids and teens personalize their look, and ceramic offers a discreet option.
Braces vs. Invisalign
| Factor | Braces | Invisalign |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Visible (less with ceramic) | Nearly invisible |
| Compliance | Fixed — always working | Must be worn 20–22 hrs/day |
| Complexity range | Simple to severe | Mild to moderate (most cases) |
| Diet restrictions | Yes — avoid hard/sticky foods | None — remove to eat |
| Hygiene | More challenging | Standard brushing/flossing |
| Cost | Lower (typically) | Higher |
| Average duration | 18–24 months | 6–18 months |
Why Reno Patients Choose Boca Dental & Braces for Traditional Braces
What sets us apart
- Braces available at all 3 Reno-area locations, including Sparks Kids & Braces for pediatric patients
- Children, teen, and adult braces — all ages welcome
- Most PPO dental insurance and orthodontic insurance accepted; many plans include an orthodontic lifetime benefit
- Nevada Medicaid orthodontic coverage for qualifying children
- CareCredit, Sunbit, and Alphaeon financing, plus in-house payment plans
- Evening and Saturday appointments for school-age patients
- Free orthodontic consultations — no obligation
Traditional Braces in Reno — Your Questions, Answered
Everything Reno and Sparks patients ask us most about traditional braces — tap any question to read the answer.
How Much Do Braces Cost in Reno, NV?
At Boca, cost should never stand between you and the care you need. We accept Nevada Medicaid and many major dental plans, verify your benefits at no charge, and offer flexible financing — so you can move forward with confidence.
Find Traditional Braces Near You — 3 Boca Dental & Braces Locations Across Reno
Boca Specialty Dental & Braces offers metal and ceramic braces for children, teens, and adults at 3 locations across the Reno–Sparks metro area, serving South Reno, Midtown, Sparks, Spanish Springs, Sun Valley, and Washoe County.
Book Your Traditional Braces Appointment
Choose your nearest Boca location and we'll confirm within one business hour. Same-day and next-day appointments available.