Metal Braces in Pennington, NJ

Traditional metal braces remain one of the most reliable and effective ways to correct crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth at any age. At Pennington Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, our orthodontist brings over 35 years of experience to every case, giving children, teens, and adults in the Pennington, Princeton, Trenton, and Hopewell area a trusted path to a straighter, healthier smile.

Orthodontics in Pennington, NJ

Proven Results with Traditional Metal Brackets

Metal braces use small metal brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by a wire that applies steady, controlled pressure to guide teeth into proper alignment over time. This approach is highly effective for a wide range of bite disorders and malocclusion cases, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Because the brackets are fixed in place, there is no need to remember to wear or remove anything, making them a particularly practical choice for younger patients and anyone who wants a straightforward treatment path. Our advanced iTero digital scanning system allows us to plan each case with precision, so treatment stays on track from the first appointment to the final result.

Who Can Benefit

Metal Braces for Children, Teens, and Adults

Metal braces are suitable for patients across all age groups. For children, early interceptive treatment using braces can address bite problems before they become more complex, often working alongside expansion therapy or space maintenance to guide proper jaw development. For teens, traditional braces are a time-tested option that handles even the most involved alignment cases. Adults seeking to correct long-standing bite issues or orthodontic relapse after previous treatment will also find that metal braces deliver consistent, predictable results. At POP Smiles, we offer orthodontic care under the same roof as our pediatric and general dentistry services, so the whole family can be treated in one convenient location in Pennington.

35+ Years of Orthodontic Experience

Care You Can Trust at Every Stage

Our orthodontist has been treating patients in the Mercer County region for over 35 years, and practice manager Antoinette Slavin has been part of the team for 31 of those years. That depth of experience means your treatment plan is built on a foundation of genuine clinical knowledge. We use iTero digital scanning to capture precise 3D impressions of your teeth, replacing the need for traditional molds and giving us a highly accurate starting point for your braces treatment. Our bright, colorful, and welcoming office is designed to put patients of all ages at ease, from the youngest first-time visitors to adult patients returning for relapse care or replacement retainers.

Financial Options

Flexible Payment Plans and Sibling Discounts

POP Smiles offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the investment in orthodontic treatment. Families with more than one child in braces can also take advantage of sibling discounts on orthodontics, making it easier to treat multiple kids without financial strain.

Common Questions

Metal Braces: What Patients Ask Most

  • At what age should my child be evaluated to see if they need braces?

    The practice recommends an orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Early evaluation can help identify developing concerns such as crowding, spacing, bite disorders, or jaw development issues. It does not always mean treatment will begin right away, but it can help determine whether interceptive orthodontics or expansion therapy may be appropriate as a child’s smile develops.

  • How long does treatment with metal braces typically take?

    Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of each case. Mild alignment issues may be corrected in a shorter period, while more involved cases involving significant crowding, bite disorders, or malocclusion can take longer. Our orthodontist uses iTero digital scanning to map out each patient's treatment plan precisely, which helps keep progress on track. During your consultation, we can give you a realistic estimate based on your specific situation rather than a generic timeline.

  • Is soreness normal after getting braces placed or adjusted?

    Some soreness is normal in the first few days after braces are placed and after each adjustment appointment, as the teeth begin to shift. This discomfort is typically mild and temporary. Our team uses child-friendly language and a welcoming environment to help younger patients feel comfortable, and we take time to explain what to expect at each stage. If a wire is poking or causing irritation between visits, our office can help address that promptly.

  • Can adults get metal braces, or are they just for kids and teens?

    Metal braces are a fully viable option for adults. Many adult patients at POP Smiles choose traditional braces to correct long-standing alignment issues, address orthodontic relapse after previous treatment, or improve bite function. The mechanics of treatment are the same regardless of age, though adult treatment plans may account for factors like existing dental restorations. Our practice serves children, teens, and adults under one roof in Pennington, so the whole family can receive care in the same location.

  • What is orthodontic relapse, and can braces fix it?

    Orthodontic relapse occurs when teeth shift back toward their original positions after braces or aligner treatment ends, usually because retainers were not worn consistently. Metal braces can be used to correct relapse and restore proper alignment. After treatment is complete, wearing a retainer as directed is the most important step in keeping teeth in their new positions. Our practice also provides replacement retainers for patients who need them, helping to maintain results long after active treatment ends.

  • Does POP Smiles offer any financial help for braces?

    Yes. POP Smiles offers flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of orthodontic treatment. For families with more than one child receiving orthodontic care, sibling discounts are available on braces. Specific pricing is not listed publicly.

  • What technology does POP Smiles use to plan braces treatment?

    Our practice uses the iTero digital scanning system to create precise 3D images of a patient's teeth and bite. This replaces traditional physical molds and gives our orthodontist a highly accurate view of the current alignment and how treatment should progress. Digital radiographs are also used for diagnostic imaging, delivering high-resolution results with significantly lower radiation exposure than conventional X-rays. Together, these tools support a well-planned, efficient treatment process from start to finish.

  • What is the difference between metal and ceramic braces?

    Both metal and ceramic braces use the same bracket-and-wire system to move teeth, but the materials differ. Metal brackets are made of stainless steel and are the most durable and cost-effective option. Ceramic brackets are tooth-colored or clear, making them less visible against the teeth. POP Smiles offers both metal and ceramic options, so patients can choose based on their priorities around aesthetics, durability, and budget.

Patient Feedback

What Families Are Saying About POP Smiles

Patient and parent feedback offers a helpful look at the care we provide. Read reviews from families who have chosen Pennington Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, and leave a review to share your own experience.