Traditional Stainless Steel
Stainless steel braces (metal) are the most popular and traditional. Braces straighten your teeth by using brackets and archwires. Today the brackets are much smaller and comfortable than they use to be and allow customization by using different colors elastic ties.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional braces; however, these types of braces do not require the use of elastics ties. They are the same size as metal braces and use a special clip for the archwire to guide the teeth into slot. This means fewer adjustment visits, no elastic ties and less pressure on your teeth.
Clear Braces Lakewood / Ceramic Braces
Clear or Ceramic Braces are less visible than stainless steel and offer an alternative for those patients who are allergic to metals. These braces cannot be used in all cases and are typically placed on the upper teeth. They do require additional care and maintenance.
Clear Aligners/Invisalign®
Clear Aligners, (some know these as the popular name brand, Invisalign®) are also known as invisible braces, and are made of acrylic. Unlike traditional braces these plastic alignment trays can be removed for eating and brushing. They are more expensive than traditional braces and require very steady use to get the desired results.