There are 5 Main Types of Braces:
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
- Metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Self-ligating braces
- Lingual Braces
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces have been around for more than 100 years and are the most common type of braces and a top choice of patients at Sequoia Orthodontics for both their efficacy and price. However, major advancements in orthodontic technology have made braces more comfortable and less noticeable. Major advancements in orthodontic technology have made braces and brackets:
- Smaller
- Faster
- More Comfortable
- More Effective
Traditional metal braces are the most popular treatment option among parents, because unlike clear aligners and retainers, parents don't need to remind children to wear them, which can significantly decrease treatment time. Metal braces move teeth when they are glued to the patient's teeth and connected by a wire.
The wire is connected to each individual stainless steel bracket by elastic ties / rubber bands (which come in a variety of colors for patients to choose from). Your routine visits to the doctor will consist of minor adjustments to your braces on your front teeth and bottom teeth, including tightening of your wire, every 4-8 weeks. You will also have the option to change the color of your elastic bands during your routine appointments.
One of the disadvantages of metal braces is that they make it hard to clean teeth and maintain good oral hygiene since it can be difficult to floss and remove plaque build up.
Brands of Metal Braces
Every orthodontist usually has a preference on their favorite brand of metal braces, but that isn't something the patient should worry about.
- Ormo Mini Diamond
- American MINI MASTER
- Dentsply GAC OmniArch
- Unitek Victory Series
- SPEED System
- Damon
- WildSmiles
Ceramic Braces
Very similar to metal braces, ceramic braces are braces consist of clear, tooth-colored brackets that blend into the patient's smile making them less visible. They function in the same way as metal braces, they just are a more discreet option for patients who don't like the look of metal brackets.
Compared to metal braces, ceramic brackets are less noticeable and present an affordable alternative to metal braces. You should know, however, that these braces are also slightly larger than metal braces and can stain depending diet and brushing habits. They are not for everybody, but we believe they remain a valuable tool in our orthodontic tool-bag.
Self-ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are similar to metal and ceramic braces and are available in metal or clear/ceramic material.
Lingual Braces
Lingual Braces are different from all the previous options because they are behind the teeth. They are by far the least common orthodontic treatment on the market.
Invisalign And Clear Aligners
Invisalign is a type of clear aligner. Clear aligners are extremely popular because they are the most discreet way to move your teeth. While they are limited in the type of tooth movement they can cause, they are extremely popular because the clear plastic is barely visible. Adult patients love plastic aligners, when metal brackets aren't an option.
Because it is easy to remove clear aligners, brushing and flossing becomes easier, which makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and avoid dental problems.
Which is Right For You?
If you're looking for a beautiful smile, it is important that you discuss all of your options with your orthodontist. While you may find clear braces to be more attractive, they might not be the ideal option for you considering your unique teeth positioning, which may cause an increased length of treatment.
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