Types of Braces

Ceramic (clear) braces are most popular with adult patients due to their cosmetic appeal. The brackets are clear, so they are less noticeable than metal braces, but they move teeth just as efficiently.

Traditional braces are tied in with elastics, which cause friction and pressure which can make treatment slower and less comfortable. At Altera Orthodontics we use self-ligating braces which use a slide mechanism to hold the wire without elastics, which allows teeth to move more freely, quickly and comfortably. Self-ligating braces are designed to be discreet, comfortable and easy to keep clean. Without the elastic ties which attract and collect plaque, self-ligating braces make dental hygiene easy during treatment.

Invisalign is a technique that straightens your teeth without braces, using a series of virtually invisible, removable aligners (trays) that are custom-molded to fit your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners have no metal bands or wires to trap food or plaque. Being removable allows the ability to maintain a good oral hygiene program that will reduce chances of plaque buildup, tooth decay and periodontal disease.