Types of Braces

How do braces straighten crooked teeth?

Orthodontic treatment using braces involves the use of constant and gentle pressure to gradually shift teeth into their proper positions. This process relies on two main components of braces: brackets and archwires. The brackets are affixed to each tooth and the archwire connects them. The archwire is specifically bent to match your desired bite, which is the way you want your teeth to look after the treatment. 

As the archwire is threaded through the brackets, it applies pressure on the teeth to move them. This pressure causes the bone on one side of the tooth to give way, allowing the tooth to move into its new position. New bone growth then occurs behind the tooth to support its new position.

Elastics, also known as rubber bands, are often attached to braces to help exert the proper force needed to move teeth. These elastics must be worn all the time and changed every day to maintain a constant force and ensure effective treatment.

If you are considering braces for orthodontic treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment. Our team can discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan that suits your needs and goals.

TRADITIONAL METAL BRACES

Traditional metal braces are the most common type and are more comfortable than ever. 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 elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

 

CLEAR BRACES

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

Though they are visually less prominent, they require more attention to oral hygiene because clear braces are larger and more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, clear braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth.

 

CLEAR ALIGNERS

Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment; plus, brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and contain no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.