Types of Braces
Types of Braces
There are several types of braces that can be used in orthodontic treatment. And for each type of braces, there are many companies that manufacture the braces. Most orthodontists will use just a few of the types of braces that are available which they find work the best in their office.
At Bedont Orthodontics, we use metal (silver and gold) braces as well as ceramic braces. We also treat patients with self-ligating braces that transfer into our office.
Metal braces are the most common type of braces, and what most consider your typical “braces”. Modern metal braces are made with smooth and polished high-quality stainless steel for the best comfort and results, and are much more hygienic and less noticeable than they used to be. Metal braces are usually silver in color, but also can come in a gold color. Check out the picture below to see the difference between the two colors.
Additionally, you have the choice to include colored elastics, giving you the choice to make your smile more unique, and heat-activated arch-wires, which use body heat to move your teeth quicker than ever before, while reducing pain significantly.
Your smile is one of the first things someone notices about you. Beautiful, gold-colored braces are another stylish way to wear metal brackets. The brackets feature a beautiful champagne gold finish and a small, smooth design.
If you are interested in gold braces, talk to Dr. Bedont or a team member to find out more.
Ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored materials to reduce notice-ability for those with cosmetic concerns, and can potentially move teeth quicker than clear plastic aligners. Though they’re an obvious choice for reduced visibility, they look great with colored elastics!
There are a few disadvantages to ceramic brackets: They are more fragile than metal braces, slightly larger than metal braces, and require more hygienic attention as they can stain if not treated with care. Ceramic braces are also more expensive than traditional metal braces.
If you are interested in ceramic braces, talk to Dr. Bedont or a team member to find out more.
Self-ligating braces use the same materials as metal or ceramic braces, but without the need of elastic ties on the braces to hold the wire in place. Special brackets or clips are instead used to help the arch-wire move your teeth. Self-ligating braces are typically more expensive than traditional metal braces. At Bedont Orthodontics, we currently do not use self-ligating braces, but we do treat transfer-in patients who have self-ligating braces.
