Types of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces
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 arch wires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored O-ties for a more unique and colorful smile.
Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners nearly invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials so that they stand out less on your teeth than metal braces. Ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons it is common for ceramic braces to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth.
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Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are made from the same materials as traditional braces. However, self-ligating braces do not require the use of o-ties, which makes them look cleaner and makes fewer appointments more reasonable. Self-ligating braces come in traditional metal, clear or ceramic. They are the same size as metal braces, but use a specialized clip to hold the arch wire in place instead of o-ties.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth and are therefore “invisible” when you smile. Lingual braces are 100% customized to match the shape of your teeth; the metal appliances are created uniquely for you. Lingual braces are a very reasonable option for adult professionals, athletes, models and actors/actresses.
