metal 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 custom archwires.

With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

clear braces

Clear (Ceramic) Braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have aesthetic concerns.

While they're visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene. Ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth, also because the lower teeth are usually less visible.

clear aligners

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners like Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® are a series of invisible, removable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces.

Not only are the aligners invisible, but they're also removable. This means you can eat and drink with fewer restrictions while you are in treatment, plus they make brushing and flossing less of a hassle

The aligners are comfortable and discomfort can be easily fixed by filing the edges to avoid abrasions. They help align with attachments that are tooth-colored filling material that is placed on the areas that require movement.

Braces FAQ's

Are braces worth getting?

Patients can count on braces to straighten their teeth and align their bite. Braces have proven to be an effective way to fix these particular dental concerns.

Can braces fix overbite?

Yes, braces can treat most overbites with the help of wires, brackets, and elastics.

Can you eat after getting braces off?

Yes, you can eat whatever foods you want without having to worry about your braces. However, it is important that you continue to keep good oral hygiene to keep your teeth healthy.

Do braces permanently straighten teeth?

Once your braces are removed, you will need the aid of retainers to ensure that they do not shift from their straightened position.

How do you get your braces off early?

Closely follow the directions given to you by your dentist to speed up the process. Make sure to always brush your teeth, keep your mouth clean, and avoid sugary, hard, and sticky foods. You are always able to have appliances removed if you determine it is not the right time for treatment.

How often are braces adjusted?

During active treatment, appointments will be set up every four to ten weeks for checkups, wire changes, and adjustments.

What age is best for braces?

The best age to get braces varies based on a patient’s growth and development, and it is best to seek an orthodontist for screening so that they can determine the ideal time to begin treatment. A majority of patients start treatment between the ages of 10 and 14.

Do braces change your face?

Since braces adjust alignment issues, they can result in positive changes to your face. Often patients get treatment while they are still growing, so some patients may notice a change to their facial features due to normal growth and development.

How long do braces take to straighten teeth?

On average, patients are in braces about 16 to 24 months for comprehensive treatment.

What are the side effects of braces?

Braces can cause mild discomfort and pain when adjusted, and do hinder your ability to eat certain foods. If you don't clean your mouth well while wearing braces, it can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. If braces are left unmonitored long-term, they can have several long-term negative side effects including decay, root shortening and possible loss of teeth.

What is a good age to get braces?

The ideal time to get braces varies based on a patient’s growth and development, it is best to seek an orthodontist for screening so that they can determine the ideal time to begin treatment. A majority of patients start treatment between the ages of 10 and 14.

What is the purpose of braces?

Braces can straighten the teeth and align the bite properly. This improves dental health but can also be for cosmetic purposes.

Which kind of braces are best?

Each type of braces has its own advantages and disadvantages, your orthodontist can advise you which will work best with your bite. Metal braces are the most common, as they are effective and have been around the longest.