Traditional
More comfortable than ever before, traditional metal braces are the most common of the different types of braces. Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and straighten your teeth using metal brackets and wires which slowly move your teeth into place. Metal braces provide you with the option for adding colored elastics for a unique, colorful smile.
Ceramic
Made of clear materials, ceramic braces are less visible than traditional braces. Older teenagers and adult patients with cosmetic concerns are the most frequent users of ceramic braces. Though ceramic braces are visually less prominent, they are also larger and more brittle than traditional braces and require more attention than other types of braces. Also, ceramic braces tend to be used on upper front teeth rather than on lower teeth.
Clear
Clear appliances like Invisalign use removable, invisible aligners to gradually move teeth into place. Because the aligners are transparent, no one can tell that you’re wearing them! Aligners are also removable, making it possible to eat and drink whatever you choose while still in treatment. This also makes brushing and flossing less of a hassle. With no metal to abrade the mouth, transparent aligners make for a much more comfortable treatment plan.
Which Type of Braces Are Right For Me?
Almost everyone will have braces at some point in their lifetime. However, the type of braces that are right for you and someone else may be completely different. Our team at McDonough Orthodontics can help you figure out which option to choose. Depending on which of the following things are most important to you, we can help you narrow down which type of braces you should consider.
Appearance
Teens and adults are often concerned with the appearance of braces. For a more discreet option, consider choosing either ceramic or clear braces. Ceramic brackets are much less visible than metal braces. These appear more like a retainer since only the archwire is visible at first glance.
Speed
Traditional metal braces are often the fastest treatment option for braces. The metal brackets and archwire guide teeth into the right spot. Because you cannot remove metal braces like a retainer or Invisalign, you receive 24/7 oral guidance.
Comfort
If you are worried about the pain or discomfort of braces, consider choosing a clear braces alternative like Invisalign. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligner trays instead of traditional metal appliances. However, all types of orthodontic treatments may cause some degree of adjustment pains.
Want help deciding which type of braces to choose? We’re here to help! Give us a call at (801) 266-2662 or schedule a free smile evaluation today.