Orthodontics Treatment Options

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional braces consist of standard metal brackets. They are the most common type of braces. Metal braces require periodic tightening so steady pressure can gradually straighten your teeth and align your jaw.

Some people prefer invisible aligners due to aesthetic reasons, avoiding the “metal mouth” look. Despite their appearances, metal braces have certain advantages, such as lower cost, greater effectiveness in treating overcrowded teeth, and permanent affixation to your mouth–no risk of misplacing them! With metal braces, you also have the option of adding colored elastic bands to make your braces vibrant, colorful and uniquely yours!

Ceramic Braces

Some people prefer invisible aligners due to aesthetic reasons, avoiding the “metal mouth” look. Despite their appearances, metal braces have certain advantages, such as lower cost, greater effectiveness in treating overcrowded teeth, and permanent affixation to your mouth–no risk of misplacing them! With metal braces, you also have the option of adding colored elastic bands to make your braces vibrant, colorful and uniquely yours!

Invisalign

Invisalign is one of the most popular methods of realignment and a great option for our adult patients. The allure of Invisalign lies in its name; they are a type of braces that invisibly align teeth, and are the most discreet option available. 

Over the course of Invisalign treatment,18 to 30 aligners are custom made for the patient, to be replaced every two weeks. They are made of a clear dental plastic. Each aligner is slightly different from the last, to gradually and gently shift teeth into place. This process is often longer than a traditional braces experience, however many patients would rather wait longer for their perfect smile than don visible aligners like metal or ceramic braces. Because the aligners are removable, many patients enjoy the convenience of removing them for eating, drinking, and special occasions as well. Home care, brushing, flossing and your regular hygiene maintenance appointments are simple with Invisalign because your dental aligners can simply be removed for these activities and then reinserted easily by you!

While all of these features are attractive, Invisalign is not for everyone. More severe dental complications require different treatments. Invisalign is not effective for children, as their jaws are still developing.