Traditional & Clear Braces
While there are several new, innovative ways to straighten teeth, traditional metal braces still remain the most popular and reliable way to get the results you’re looking for. In the past, metal braces have been both uncomfortable and unsightly, but today’s braces have been significantly improved upon to offer smaller, less visible and less invasive brackets.
At North Texas Orthodontics, we provide traditional and clear braces to patients of all ages. While Invisalign is a great option for many of our patients, the clear aligners are not the best option for everyone, especially patients with severe misalignments. No need to worry, though, as traditional braces are an efficient means to improving smiles.
Though the term clear braces is often synonymous with Invisalign, the term actually refers to appliances quite similar to metal braces. Often called ceramic braces, clear braces are just like traditional metal braces but they’re clear!
They are applied to teeth and use archwires in the same manner as traditional braces. As opposed to their clear counterpart, Invisalign, they’re capable of correcting nearly any orthodontic issue—making them a great choice for most patients.
Given that clear braces are similar to traditional braces in structure, they present a range of benefits in treating patients who desire good treatment without the metal.
How Do Braces Work?
Traditional braces consist of brackets and wires attached to your teeth that use pressure to move your teeth into new positions. The brackets are strategically positioned on your teeth by our orthodontists and bonded to your teeth using a special glue.
A metal wire, called an archwire, is then placed in the brackets. This exerts a constant yet gentle pressure on the teeth, which gradually guides them into a new, straightened position.
Every 1-2 months, this wire will be switched out for a new one as your bite, jaw and teeth start to move. At the end of your treatment, you’ll have a set of straight teeth, reduced spaces or crowding, improved facial appearance, and better bite alignment—all leading to a perfect, healthy smile!
