Proven Orthodontic Results with Time-Tested Metal Braces
Traditional Metal Braces at Hometown Dental Co
At Hometown Dental Co., we believe that a straighter smile can lead to better oral health, improved confidence, and a brighter future. That’s why we proudly offer traditional metal braces, a proven and effective orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages. As a trusted dentist Bloomington patients rely on, we combine the latest techniques with compassionate care to make your braces experience as comfortable and successful as possible.
Why Choose Traditional Metal Braces?
Traditional metal braces remain one of the most reliable ways to correct misaligned teeth and jaw issues. Made from high-grade stainless steel, they are designed to withstand the demands of daily life while delivering consistent, precise results. Braces work by applying continuous, gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their ideal position, and they can address even the most complex orthodontic cases. While newer options like clear aligners are popular, traditional braces offer unique advantages:
- Effectiveness for all cases: Ideal for complex corrections that other systems may not fully address.
- Durability: Designed to last throughout your treatment without damage.
- Cost-efficiency: Often a more budget-friendly choice for families.
Who Can Benefit from Metal Braces?
Metal braces are suitable for children, teens, and adults seeking a long-term solution to orthodontic issues such as:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Jaw misalignment
Whether you’re a student in Bloomington, a professional in Terre Haute, or a parent from Crawfordsville seeking orthodontic care for your child, our team will customize a treatment plan that meets your needs.
The Braces Process
Your journey with traditional braces begins with a comprehensive orthodontic consultation. We’ll take digital images and impressions to create a personalized treatment plan. Once your braces are placed, you’ll visit us regularly for adjustments, which help guide your teeth into their ideal positions.
Throughout the process, our team will provide tips for keeping your braces clean, reducing discomfort, and protecting your orthodontic investment.
Caring for Your Braces
Proper care is essential to keeping your treatment on track. This includes:
- Brushing and flossing daily, paying extra attention to cleaning around brackets and wires.
- Avoiding sticky or hard foods that can damage braces.
- Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports.
At Hometown Dental Co., we’ll guide you through each step of caring for your braces so you can enjoy a smooth and successful treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Braces
How long will I need to wear braces?
Treatment time varies depending on your unique needs, but most patients wear braces for 18 to 36 months.
Will braces hurt?
You may experience mild soreness for a few days after adjustments, but it typically subsides quickly. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
Are there food restrictions with braces?
Yes, you should avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can damage the brackets and wires.
Do I still need dental checkups during orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely. Regular visits to your dentist help ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy during treatment.
How often will I need to come in for adjustments?
Most patients have adjustment appointments every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their specific treatment plan. These visits allow your orthodontist to make the small changes needed to keep your teeth moving correctly.
Can I switch from metal braces to another type of orthodontic treatment mid-treatment?
In some cases, yes. If you decide you’d prefer a different orthodontic solution, our team can evaluate your progress and determine whether switching is possible without affecting your results.
Why Choose Hometown Dental Co.?
As a dentist Bloomington patients trust for both general and specialized care, Hometown Dental Co. offers the expertise and technology needed for exceptional orthodontic results. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to support you every step of the way — whether you’re starting braces for the first time or helping your child begin their orthodontic journey.
We proudly serve patients from Bloomington, Terre Haute, Crawfordsville, Plainfield, and our home community in Greencastle. No matter where you’re coming from, you can count on us for personalized attention and high-quality care.
Start Your Braces Journey Today
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your smile, now is the perfect time to get started. Contact Hometown Dental Co. to schedule your orthodontic consultation and learn how traditional metal braces can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Our team is ready to guide you through every step with skill, compassion, and dedication.
Get directions
1113 Indianapolis Road
Greencastle, IN 46135
Meet THE DENTISTS
DR. DENNIS KNUTH
PARTNER
Dr. Knuth is proud to care for patients right here in the community he calls home. He and his team at Hometown Dental combine continuing education with the latest technology to make sure every patient and family receives top-quality care in a comfortable, welcoming setting.
Passionate about dentistry based on a simple philosophy, Dr. Knuth treats every patient as he would a close friend or family member—always striving to deliver the level of care each person deserves.
A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Knuth feels fortunate to have learned from some of the best mentors in the field. Before becoming a dentist, he earned a degree in electrical engineering and spent six years working in the electronics industry in Cincinnati. That background gave him a strong appreciation for technology and precision, which now plays a big role in how he approaches dental care.
Dr. Knuth lives in Greencastle with Emily (Jones) and their three children. When Dr. Knuth isn’t with patients, you might find him riding his bicycle or on his Peloton trainer. Dr. Knuth also loves traveling and exploring new places with his family and friends. Some of Dr. Knuth’s favorite things are Bruce Springsteen, peanut M&Ms, cherry pie and yoga.
DR. TESS FUNKE
PARTNER
Dr. Funke loves getting to know her patients and chatting with them when they come in for visits. Its important to her to provide care for all patients, no matter where they are in their oral health journey.
While she enjoys many aspects of dentistry, Dr. Funke is excited to educate patients about dental implants and the ways they benefit oral health as Hometown Dental grows to offer implants here in our office.
Dr. Funke attended the University of Louisville for dental school and then completed a one year advanced training program in Arkansas. She's been transforming smiles with the Hometown Dental team since 2019.
When Dr. Funke isn’t with patients, you will find her spending time with her husband, Adam and their young son, Victor. Whether they are out strolling their neighborhood with aussiedoodle, Nelson or trying a new restaurant, it's wonderful to experience the world through a child’s eyes. Dr. Funke enjoys Orange Theory Fitness, cuddling up with a good book and will never turn down a good chocolate chip cookie.
