Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of braces for orthodontic patients. Today's metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable than in the past. Patients of all ages choose metal braces to help them achieve straight, beautiful smiles.

What Braces are Made Of

Traditional metal braces are made of high quality stainless steel or titanium. The three main parts of your braces are:

  • Brackets — Brackets are attached to the teeth using special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.

  • Archwire — The archwire is the thin metal wire that connects each bracket and puts pressure on the teeth to help guide them into place.

  • Ligature Elastic (“O’s”) — Elastics, or ties, are the colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. Your orthodontist will change the ties at each appointment, and come in a variety of colors.

How Braces Work

Once placed on your teeth, braces place constant pressure on your teeth, and the force of the pressure helps move teeth into proper position. At each appointment, Dr. Jeff may adjust the archwires. In addition to braces, some patients may need to wear rubber bands or headgear. Patients wearing braces may notice their teeth feeling a little loose. This is normal and temporary; once the teeth are done moving this feeling will go away.

Braces for All Ages

Traditional metal braces are still the most popular, quickest, and most cost-effective orthodontic treatment available. We can help you determine what treatment is best for your individual case. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about how braces can enhance your smile.

Clear/Ceramic Braces

Having braces doesn't necessarily require highly noticeable metal brackets and wires. In fact, many of today's braces are made from either clear or natural tooth colored materials to provide patients with an attractive, less noticeable alternative to traditional braces.

What is the difference between clear/ceramic braces and clear aligners?

Clear/Ceramic braces are the same as traditional metal braces except that they are clear! Clear/Ceramic braces are a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces and provide patients with an equally effective treatment.

Clear aligners are different from clear braces. Clear aligners are made of clear plastic that are designed to fit into your mouth like a mouthguard. Clear aligners are great for patients requiring minor orthodontic treatment.

What are the advantages and disadvantages to clear/ceramic braces?

As with any orthodontic treatment, it is important to choose the right option for your needs and lifestyle. Clear braces are a great alternative to traditional metal braces and we will help you determine whether they are the right treatment for you.

Advantages to clear/ceramic braces:

  • Appearance: Clear/Ceramic braces are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Clear/Ceramic braces offer an aesthetic alternative for patients seeking options other than traditional metal braces.

  • Confidence: Many patients who choose clear braces feel more confident about their orthodontic treatment, especially knowing that people are focusing on their smiles rather than their braces.

Disadvantages to clear braces:

  • Cost: Clear/Ceramic braces may cost more than traditional metal braces.

  • Discoloration: The clear elastic ties used with clear and ceramic braces may become slightly discolored when you drink tea, coffee, or wine, and eat certain foods or smoke.

  • Durability: Clear/Ceramic braces are lest durable than metal braces. Patients must avoid hard candy and ice chewing to keep from breakin g brackets.

Are clear/ceramic braces the right choice for my smile and me?

We can provide answers to your questions and extra information explaining the benefits of each treatment. If you would like to learn more about clear braces and all of the options available to you, please contact our office and schedule an appointment today.