Types of Braces
At Farina Orthodontic Specialists, we offer a variety of braces for kids, teens, and adults to meet your unique needs!
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type of braces for orthodontic patients. Today’s metal braces are much smaller, flatter, and more comfortable than in the past. Patients of all ages choose metal braces to help them achieve straight, beautiful smiles.
WHAT BRACES ARE MADE OF
Traditional metal braces are made of high-quality stainless steel or titanium.
The three main parts of your braces are:
• Brackets — Brackets are attached to the teeth using special glue that bonds them to the tooth surface and holds them in place.
• Archwire — The archwire is the thin metal wire that connects each bracket and puts pressure on the teeth to help guide them into place.
• Ligature Elastic (also known as the “rubber bands”) — Elastics, or rubber bands, are the colored ties that hold the archwires to the brackets. Your orthodontist will change the elastics at each appointment. Elastics may come in a variety of colors.
HOW BRACES WORK
Once placed on your teeth, braces place constant pressure on your teeth, and the force of the pressure helps move teeth into proper position. At each appointment, your orthodontist may tighten the archwires. In addition to braces, some patients may need to wear rubber bands or headgear. Patients wearing braces may notice their teeth feeling a little loose. This is normal and temporary; once the teeth are done moving this feeling will go away.
METAL BRACES FOR ALL AGES
Traditional metal braces are a popular option for many patients. Your orthodontist can help you determine what treatment is best for your individual case. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about how braces can enhance your smile.
Clear Braces
Having braces doesn’t necessarily require highly noticeable metal brackets and wires. In fact, many of today’s braces are made from either clear or natural tooth-colored materials to provide patients with an attractive, less noticeable alternative to traditional braces. Clear braces are the same as traditional metal braces except that they are clear!
Clear braces are a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces and provide patients with an equally effective treatment. Clear aligners are different from clear braces. Clear aligners are pieces of hard plastic that are designed to fit into your mouth like a mouthguard. Clear aligners are great for patients requiring minor orthodontic treatment.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES TO CLEAR BRACES?
As with any orthodontic treatment, it is important to choose the right option for your needs and lifestyle. Clear braces are a great alternative to traditional metal braces and your orthodontist will help you determine whether they are the right treatment for you.
Advantages to clear braces:
- Appearance: Ceramic braces and clear braces are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Clear and ceramic braces offer an aesthetic alternative for patients seeking options other than traditional metal braces.
- Confidence: Many patients who choose ceramic or clear braces feel more confident about their orthodontic treatment, especially knowing that people are focusing on their smiles rather than their braces.
Disadvantages to clear braces:
- Cost: Ceramic and clear braces may cost more than traditional metal braces. Your orthodontist may offer convenient payment plans to help control the costs of your treatment. Be sure to talk to your orthodontist about all of your financial options.
- Discoloration: The clear elastic ties used with clear and ceramic braces may become slightly discolored when you drink tea, coffee, or wine, and eat certain foods or smoke. Ask your orthodontist about how you can keep your braces looking their best.
- Treatment Time: Orthodontic treatment with clear or ceramic braces may take longer than with traditional metal braces. If you don’t mind investing a little more time in your smile, then talk to your orthodontist to find out how long your treatment time will be with clear or ceramic braces.
ARE CLEAR OR CERAMIC BRACES THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR MY SMILE AND ME?
By talking to your orthodontist, you can decide if clear or ceramic braces are the right treatment for you. Your orthodontist can provide answers to your questions and extra information explaining the benefits of each treatment. If you would like to learn more about clear braces, ceramic braces, and all of the options available to you, please contact our practice and schedule an appointment today.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are another option offered at Farina Orthodontic Specialists! Self-ligating braces have specialized brackets that independently slide to tighten over time. This means fewer orthodontist visits for manual tightening, and patients often find this option more comfortable.