METAL BRACES
There is a reason why traditional metal braces have been around for so long, they are the most versatile, the most effective and the most reliable type of orthodontic treatment. Unfortunately, metal braces have a bad reputation because they are visible and considered to be uncomfortable. Contrary to popular belief, metal braces are now more comfortable than ever and you have the option of adding colored elastics for a unique and customized look.
SELF-LIGATING METAL BRACES
Self-ligating metal braces are the most advanced braces system in the world. Self-ligating braces use little metal doors to hold wires instead of color bands, elastics, or metal ties. This allows for far less friction between the wire and the braces. This results in faster tooth movement because the braces are free to slide along the wire. Also, this concept allows for greater freedom of tooth movement with much less discomfort. Lighter forces are utilized because of the reduction in friction between the wire and brace. With no need for the elastic ties that fade with time, the interval between appointments is much longer. Gone are the days of having to replace the elastic ties every 4-6 weeks. With our self-ligating braces, we are able to extend your appointment intervals out every 8-12 weeks. In summary, self-ligating braces are easier on your teeth, easier on your time, and achieve stunning results.
CLEAR CERAMIC BRACES
Clear braces are translucent and designed to blend in with your natural tooth color and they can make patients feel much more confident about their appearance. While clear braces are a great alternative for patients who have esthetic concerns, they tend to be larger, more brittle, slightly more expensive than the metal braces. For these reasons, clear braces are usually used only on the upper front teeth.
We use the clearest ceramic bracket available. Each bracket is created from a single crystal of pure grown sapphire - one of the hardest materials in nature, second only to diamond.
GOLD BRACES
Gone are the days when wearing braces was unpleasant. Now, with aesthetically pleasing, elegant gold braces, patients can look great not only after treatment, but during it as well. Gold braces are similar to traditional metal braces in many ways. They are made of stainless steel but are uniquely coated in 24k gold. The gold coating may be considered a more cosmetic option than traditional metal braces. And, the cost of gold braces is surprisingly comparable to most clear braces.
Wearing braces for several months or years doesn’t have to be a dreadful experience. You can flash a confident smile while undergoing treatment.
APPLIANCES
Our doctors use variety of orthodontic appliances in addition to your braces. These appliances help straighten teeth, enhance jaw growth and support the braces process.
One of the most common ones we use is elastics (rubber bands). There are other types of appliances that you may encounter at our office, such as expanders, face mask, functional appliance and temporary anchorage devices. Please follow our doctors’ instructions and recommendations carefully. Successful orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the orthodontist and the patient.
RETAINERS
Yay! You got your braces off. We worked very hard to straighten your teeth, let’s keep it that way. The use of retainers after braces is a crucial part of the continuing maintenance of teeth.
It is our strong belief that patients should wear retainers throughout their lifetime. Orthodontists say “wear your retainers as long as you want to keep your teeth straight.” That’d be a lifetime. We typically recommend wearing your retainers full-time for about 2-6 months then night-time afterwards.
With our new 3D printed retainer program, you will receive your final 3D printed models with a set of retainers when you complete your orthodontic treatment!