- Crowding |
- Spacing |
- Missing Teeth |
- Incorrect Angulation |
- Excessive Overjet |
- Anterior Crossbite |
- Deepbite
- Openbite |
- Posterior Crossbite |
- Scissors Bite |
- Lingual Braces |
- Invisalign |
- Types of Brackets
- What age should my child have an orthodontic evaluation? |
- Why it is important to have orthodontic treatment at a young age?
Several kinds of orthodontic braces can be used to reposition teeth. Damon brackets and ceramic brackets are two of the most popular types of dental braces. Patients can choose from ceramic braces, plastic ( clear braces), or stainless steel ( metal braces). Stainless steel is a practical material, and the most common, but ceramic or plastic can be used for cosmetic purposes.
Before you decide on a method of treatment, you should always check with your orthodontist to find out what kinds of orthodontic braces are offered, and what dental insurance plans are accepted.
Damon Brackets
One modern advancement in the practice of orthodontics
is the Damon bracket. It was invented by a dentist named Damon Dwight.
The Damon bracket uses a "sliding-door" technology called "self-ligation." It
allows the wire to slide back and forth inside the bracket. This innovation
causes less friction and is more comfortable for the patient. Also, Damon
brackets reduce the orthodontic treatment time and number of adjustments.
Ceramic "Tooth Colored" Brackets
Ceramic braces utilize less
noticeable brackets for patients concerned about the appearance of their
smile. Ceramic brackets are translucent, so they blend in with your natural
tooth color. This means that unlike traditional stainless metal braces,
ceramic braces won’t make your smile look "metallic." In addition,
ceramic braces are designed so that they won’t stain or discolor over
long periods of time.
Clear Braces
Some dental offices offer clear braces. The brackets are
made of pure monocrystalline sapphire, which makes the clear braces practically
see-through - except for the arch wire. The closest thing to invisible
braces currently available is Invisalign®. The patented Invisalign® trays
straighten teeth effectively, yet are virtually unnoticeable.
Metal Braces
Generally the most economical option, traditional metal
braces may also be required for those needing extensive realignment.
Metal Gold Plated Metal Braces
Same as traditional metal dental braces, but made of gold-plated steel.
There are no advantages to using gold over steel, except from the cosmetic
appeal.
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