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Types of Braces

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets is that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces utilize sliding-door technology known as “self-ligation” that allows the wire to slide back and forth within the bracket. No elastic or steel ties are used with these brackets. This technology creates less friction and results in greater comfort for the patient. In addition, self-ligating braces often reduce both treatment time and the number of adjustments that are usually performed.

Lingual Braces

Having braces doesn’t mean you have to have a “tin grin.” Our office also uses lingual braces, which attach to the lingual, or tongue, side of your teeth. Lingual braces are custom-fit for your teeth and treatment plan, and each bracket is manufactured for each individual patient. These appliances are well-suited for adults, who may worry about the aesthetic nature of regular metal braces.

Invisalign®

The Invisalign® System is a series of clear overlay templates—called aligners—that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign® system.