Once upon a time, metal braces were something to hide. They were clunky, uncomfortable, and often came with the dreaded nickname “metal mouth.” But times have changed, and so have braces. Today, these smile-transforming tools are making waves not just in orthodontics, but in fashion, pop culture, and self-expression.
Welcome to the era of braces as a bold accessory.
Gen Z and Millennials Are Embracing the Metal
Braces are back, and not just for teens. Young adults in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s are proudly rocking metal brackets and turning them into style statements. Social media influencers, musicians like Lil Uzi Vert, and even fashion magazines have showcased the trend, giving braces a glam revival. From fashion magazine features to patients customizing their braces with color options that reflect personal style, holidays or moods, metal is making its mark.
Why the love? Braces have become a symbol of self-care, confidence, and individuality. They’re proof that you’re investing in yourself, and you’re not afraid to show it.
And it’s not just patients noticing the shift.
“We’ve seen increased buzz around traditional metal braces, especially on social media platforms,” says Dr. Steven Siegel, D.M.D., president of the American Association of Orthodontists. “Many patients view braces as a fashion statement and a form of self-expression.”
According to Dr. Siegel, the trend is growing among both teens and adults across the country. Younger patients see braces as a fun, nostalgic accessory, while adults appreciate the control and reliability they offer. For many, choosing braces is about confidence, not hiding the journey, but embracing it.
Goodbye, Awkward. Hello, Advanced.
At WOW! Smiles™, we’re all about embracing this trend while offering cutting-edge technology. Our patients don’t just wear braces, they wear the most advanced orthodontic appliances in the industry.
We proudly offer Pitts 21 self-ligating braces, which are a major upgrade from the bulky braces of the past. These aren’t your grandma’s brackets. Here’s why they’re the “it” accessory with real benefits:
- Smaller brackets for a more subtle, comfortable look
- Slide mechanism instead of elastic bands, gentler on teeth, less pressure
- Less friction = more comfort + faster results
- Fewer appointments because the wires don’t need constant adjusting
This means you spend more time living your best life and less time in the dental chair.
Braces as a Fashion Statement
Want to add a little flair to your look? Though not necessary with Pitts 21 self-ligating braces, we do offer the option to customize your smile with colored ties so your braces can reflect your mood, favorite holiday, or even your outfit. Patients are decorating their brackets with:
- Green bands for St. Patrick’s Day
- Rainbow bands for Pride
- Your favorite color bands for your Birthday
- School Spirit sporting their school’s colors
- Even supporting a favorite professional team
It’s all about making orthodontic treatment part of your personal style.
Real Results, Real Control
Not only are braces more trendy, they’re still one of the most effective tools for moving teeth. While aligners like Invisalign work well for many, they depend on perfect patient compliance (wearing them 22+ hours a day), and not everyone wants that responsibility.
Braces, on the other hand, offer greater control, more predictable results, and fewer decisions for the patient. As Dr. Siegel points out, traditional braces often give orthodontists the ability to fine-tune treatments with more precision than aligners allow, especially for complex cases.
The New Era of Braces
Braces have gone from something you hide to something you flaunt. Whether it’s on TikTok or in your orthodontist’s chair, metal braces are having a major comeback—and they’re here to stay. From high-tech features to high-impact style, self-ligating braces are the trend you don’t want to miss.
Schedule your FREE consultation and find out why braces will be your new favorite accessory.