Thanks to today’s advances in orthodontic technology, Bradford Orthodontics offers more options than in the past. While regular metal braces are still widely used, clear braces are becoming increasingly popular along with removable aligners that can be used for mild to moderate cases of misaligned teeth.
Feel free to speak with Dr. Ferlito or Dr. Tom to determine which type of orthodontic appliance is right for you.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are smaller and more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade space age alloys, metal braces straighten your teeth with metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore 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 are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger than metal braces. The only drawback to ceramic brackets is that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits with certain foods and smoking.
Invisible Braces
Clear appliances, such as Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, use a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth. And, no one can tell you are wearing those aligners because they are invisible! 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 have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.