Types of Orthodontic Treatment

Self-Ligating Damon Braces

Self-ligating braces are the most common bracket that we use in our office. They are made frrom a high-grade stainless steel.  However, self-ligating braces do not require the use of elastics to hold the wire into place, meaning fewer appointments and less friction being placed on the tooth. The bracket itself will hold the wire into place with a specialized clip (door) instead of needing an elastic to hold the wire in. They are smaller in size than traditional metal braces,therefore are easiest to clean and most confortable to the patient. 

Clear Braces

Our Clear braces are the same style as our self-ligating metal braces, they are just made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces! They are made out of porcelin, so they are used only on the upper arch since they would be too abrasive for the lower teeth to bite into them. The clear braces are slightly larger in size than the metal braces, but a nice alternative for the patient looking for the least noticeable option!  Clear braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners (Invisalign) are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. 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. With Invisalign, you may still need to wear some elastics to position your bite, much like braces. Your Orthodontist will let you know if your specific case would require elastics. Every Invisalign case will use what is called attachments. Attachments are "positives" of translucent glue that is added to some of your teeth to achieve the desired movements your orthodontist has programmed into your case. This will be expalined to you in detail if you are considering Invisalign.  

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are generally used for our younger patients and limited treatment cases.  Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics to hold the wire into place, for decoration for a more unique and colorful smile.