What are the different types of braces?
The state of the art brace is made of stainless steel. This is the brace that the majority of our patients (adult and children) choose. This brace is small, durable, and very strong. We also offer ceramic braces. These are only used on the upper front teeth. While these brackets are less noticeable, they do have drawbacks. The drawbacks include larger size, more bulk, slower treatment time, more breakage, and a tendency for staining of the small ties used to hold the wire in the brace.
Traditional metal braces, made from stainless steel, move your teeth into position through a system of brackets attached to your teeth and special wires that connect the brackets. Your teeth will be moved into their desired position over a span of six to 30 months. Ceramic braces are built like traditional braces, but they are made of a clear material that is far less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Invisalign®, also known as “invisible braces,” is a popular alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign® uses a series of invisible, removable, comfortable trays to straighten your teeth. More comfortable than traditional braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Lingual braces are braces that attach to the back side of the teeth so that they cannot be seen by others. Speed braces, also called self-ligating braces or Damon Braces, result in a shorter treatment time than traditional braces. While you will need to be seen by Dr.
Metal braces, made from stainless steel, are most popular with kids and teenagers as they love the different colors available for ligature ties. Metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever before. Translucent or clear ceramic braces are very popular with adults. They’re much less noticeable than conventional metal braces. However, because the ceramic material can be abrasive to enamel, they usually can be placed only on the upper teeth. They’re also more expensive. Invisalign is a new treatment option that utilizes clear, plastic “aligners” to move the teeth. This is a brand new treatment option that is limited only to adult patients with fairly simple orthodontic problems. Dr. Nikaeen can tell you if you’re a candidate for Invisalign braces. Lingual braces are mounted behind a patient’s teeth and are barely visible. They were used many years ago, before the advent of more cosmetic-style braces. Generally, lingual braces are more uncomfortable than standard braces.
There are Designer Braces ™ in gold and sapphire to add a touch of class. Even Outrageous Braces ™ in bright purple, pink, green and black. As a parent, you will have to decide whether you want your children to have plain old-fashioned braces or something modern and stylish. We make both kinds but recommend the stylish braces whenever possible.
