Types of Braces

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. 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 similar to traditional braces except they use a special metal clip to hold the archwire in place rather than elastics (colored rubber bands). This clip reduces friction and can be beneficial in some cases. Dr. Williams may recommend self-ligating braces in some cases but the patient must be willing to go without "colors" at least initially. Self-ligating braces can be metal or clear ceramic just like traditional brackets.

Clear Ceramic Braces

Clear braces are made of ceramic 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 cosmetic concerns.

Clear Aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. 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.