Metal braces (traditional braces) have been used for over 100 years to straighten teeth and that’s because they work. Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile. It is also still the gold standard of treatment for most teens.