Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type, and are more comfortable today than ever. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and wires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are made from the same high-grade metal as traditional braces. However, self-ligating braces do not require the use of elastics, which means less friction between the wires and braces. This design is especially beneficial in the moderate-to-severe crowding cases because it allows the teeth to move easier without the binding pressure from the elastics.
Self-ligating braces come in traditional metal or clear ceramic. They are the same size as metal braces, but they use a specialized clip in place of elastics to hold the wire in position.
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
Ceramic braces are less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, they are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns.
Although they are visually less prominent, they require slightly more care when eating because they are more brittle and capable of breaking. For this reason, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper teeth than on lower teeth.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a series of clear, removable plastic trays that straighten your teeth. They are the most cosmetic option for straightening teeth, and since they are removable, you can eat and drink whatever you want while in treatment ... and that includes Dr Wing’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
In addition, you can brush and floss like normal. These aligners do have their limitations, however. Dr. Wing can let you know if you are a candidate for clear aligner treatment.