Types of Braces
Traditional Metal Braces
The most common type of braces seen today, remain “metal braces”. Made of high-grade stainless steel these braces are significantly smaller and have a lower profile than their predecessors from years ago. Each brace, which is known as an orthodontic bracket, is individually bonded to the front of each tooth. Metal braces allow for efficient and highly controllable tooth movement.
Clear Braces
In cases where a set of conventional braces is the best approach to care, but a more cosmetic appearance is desired, ceramic braces offer an excellent alternative to metal braces. Ceramic braces, or clear braces, blend in with the natural color of your teeth. While being far less visible, they still function in very much the same way as metal braces to deliver outstanding results of care. An excellent aesthetic choice, ceramic braces can be a bit more fragile than their metal counterparts.
Lingual Braces
Today, there are metal braces that can be placed on the “tongue side” or lingual of every tooth. Known as lingual braces, these appliances are completely hidden from the outside world. While these braces work in the same way as the metal or ceramic braces affixed to the front of your teeth, they can only be spotted on close inspection during such times as when your mouth is wide open. Far less obvious than most other types of braces, lingual braces, due to where they are located, can be a bit more uncomfortable and more difficult to keep clean. It is also more of a challenge to get used to speaking with this type of orthodontic appliance.
Orthodontic Appliances
Other types of orthodontic appliances may also be used during the course of treatment. Some of these appliances are removable and can be taken in and out of the mouth, while others will be attached to the teeth until they are no longer needed.
Depending upon the specific needs of the case, these appliances may be used to accomplish a number of things including:
- Widening the jaws in order to make sufficient space for the permanent teeth
- Influencing jaw growth
- The reduction of deep overbites
- Allowing for the correction of teeth in crossbite
- Maintaining the space for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth has been prematurely lost
- Minor tooth movement
- Helping to control harmful oral habits
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208-09 Union Turnpike
Oakland Gardens, NY 11364
(718) 290-9444
