Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Metal braces straighten your teeth using a combination of metal brackets made of a high-grade stainless steel and specially alloyed archwires. Braces today are more comfortable, more efficient leading to shorter treatment times, and allow a decrease in the number of necessary appointments. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Gold braces are traditional metal braces made of stainless steel, but coated in gold. The gold coating may be considered a more cosmetic option than traditional metal braces, and can often be used in individuals with metal allergies. The cost of gold braces is comparable to most clear braces.
The main benefit of ceramic braces is their improved cosmetics. Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are less visible on your teeth than metal braces. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth in the esthetic zone, than on lower teeth.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten your teeth. No one can tell you are wearing Invisalign because it's invisible! The aligners are removable and are always removed during eating and when brushing your teeth. This allows you to eat and drink what you want while in treatment, and brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal components to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. Click here to learn more about Invisalign.
Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth and are therefore "invisible" when you smile. Lingual braces are 100% customized to match the shape of your teeth and therefore the metal appliances are created uniquely for you. Lingual braces are a very acceptable option for athletes, models, actors/actresses, musicians who play wind instruments, and adult professionals where esthetics during treatment is a primary concern.