Types of Braces

 

Metal Braces

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 archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored o-rings for a more unique and colorful smile.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces are made from the same material as metal braces. However, self-ligating braces do not require the use of o-rings to engage the archwire, which results in fewer appointments and less friction being placed on the tooth. They are the same size as metal braces, but use a specialized clip in place of o-rings to engage the archwire into place. The clip helps reduce the amount of pressure being placed on the tooth, and requires fewer adjustments because there are no o-rings to replace.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, clear braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as clear braces use clear o-rings that can discolor depending on the foods and drinks consumed by the patient.