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 from high-grade stainless steel, they straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you can choose between silver or gold brackets and have the option to add colored elastics color ties as well as rubber bands for a unique and vibrant smile.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are made from the same materials as traditional braces and are available in classic silver. Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating braces do not require elastic color ties, resulting in fewer appointments and less friction on the teeth. They are the same size as metal braces but use specialized clips or doors instead of elastics to help guide the archwire into place. These clips reduce the pressure on the teeth and require fewer adjustments since there are no elastic ties to replace.
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
Ceramic braces are made from clear materials, making them less visible on your teeth compared to metal braces. As a result, they are primarily used for older teenagers and adults with cosmetic concerns. While they are aesthetically appealing, ceramic braces require more attention to oral care and hygiene, as they are larger and more brittle than metal braces. For this reason, they are often used more on the upper front teeth than on the lower teeth.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a series of nearly invisible, removable acrylic trays designed to straighten your teeth, similar to traditional braces. While the aligners are discreet, they may not be completely invisible due to the composite attachments on the teeth, which enhance the aligners' effectiveness by aiding in precise tooth movement.
One of the main advantages of clear aligners is their removability, allowing you to eat and drink freely during treatment, as well as making brushing and flossing hassle-free. They are also designed for comfort, with no metal components to cause mouth abrasions. Overall, clear aligners provide a convenient and aesthetic option for orthodontic treatment, appealing to those seeking a less visible alternative.
Hybrid Orthodontic Treatment
Hybrid Orthodontic treatment combines clear aligners with braces to achieve optimal results in a much shorter period of time. Typically, you will only need to wear clear braces for a few weeks or months, generally at the beginning or at the end of the treatment with clear aligners.