Types of Braces

Thanks to today’s advances in orthodontic technology, Gill Orthodontics can provide our patients with more options when it comes to wearing braces than ever before. While regular metal braces are still widely used, clear braces are becoming increasingly popular along with removable appliances that can be used for mild cases of misaligned teeth.

Please see below or ask us to learn more about the types of braces we offer at our office. You need to speak with your orthodontist to determine which appliance is right for you.

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are smaller and more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. Instead of braces that require elastic or metal ties that can be very hard to clean, Gill Orthodontics uses the self-ligating Damon braces, that still gives you the option of colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile. Please go to the “Damon Braces” site on our header bar to find out more about this state-of-the-art bracket system.

Braces

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have aesthetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger than metal braces. The only drawback to ceramic brackets is that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits with certain foods and smoking.

Ceramic-Braces

Invisible Braces

Clear aligners are a treatment option for some orthodontics situations. This treatment option uses a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth. And, no one can tell you are wearing those aligners because they are invisible! 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.
Invisalign