Different kinds of braces work best for different patients. With summer here, plenty of us are indulging in ice cream. What would the ice cream truck be with just one picture on the side wall menu? Ben and Jerry’s would certainly have less fun coming up with names for a single pint flavor. In the same way, orthodontists offer braces to suit patient preferences, budgets, and medical needs.

Here’s a look at the different kinds of braces available today:

Traditional Metal Braces

The traditional metal type of braces has the longest history and remains the most common of the different kinds of braces. High-grade stainless steel brackets are bonded to the outer surface of the teeth and metal bands attach to the back molars. A wire is inserted into the brackets and held in place by elastic rings. The wire is tightened throughout the treatment program to guide the teeth into alignment. This treatment option is economical and time-tested.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to traditional metal except the bracket material is a translucent ceramic crafted to match the color of the patient’s teeth. An arch wire is still used to guide the teeth but the elastics are clear. If the elastic bands stain, monthly visits keep the look inconspicuous by replacing them with new bands. The obvious benefit of ceramic braces is that they are harder to detect than metal. Check with your orthodontist to see whether there is an upcharge for ceramic over metal.

Lingual Braces

Of the different kinds of braces, this is the most unnoticeable. Lingual braces are placed on the tongue surface of the teeth. For some wind instrument players, lingual braces are the best option to keep up with their music practice. They are undetected in your photographs. Some patients find it takes some time to adjust their speech. Orthodontists need special training to apply lingual braces and the cost is greater than traditional braces. In addition, lingual braces are not a good match for every patient – and treatment time may be prolonged.

Damon Braces

Damon braces look similar to traditional metal. But they use no rubber bands. The benefit of the Damon system among the different kinds of braces is there are no elastics to accumulate bacteria or cause pressure in the mouth. The teeth are naturally guided into place with shape memory arch wires. For the right patient and a trained orthodontist, the Damon system produces beautiful wide, natural smiles and maintains a high level of comfort during dental alignment.

Wild Smiles Braces

For the budding teen who wants to express individuality, Wild Smiles are a fun alternative. Besides just different colors of elastic bands, Wild Smile brackets can be customized. There are a variety of shapes to choose from, like stars or footballs depending on patient preference.

Contact Serenity Orthodontics today for the best match for you in different kinds of braces. Independent of the option chosen, our office guarantees the best possible patient outcomes and comfort during treatment.