Thanks to today’s advances in orthodontic technology, San Ramon Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics can provide our patients with more options when it comes to wearing braces than ever before. While regular metal braces are still widely used, clear braces are becoming increasingly popular along with removable appliances that can be used for mild cases of misaligned teeth.
Please see below or ask us to learn more about the types of braces we offer at our office. You need to speak with your orthodontist to determine which appliance is right for you.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces used today. They are smaller and more comfortable than ever before and constructed of high-grade space age metal alloys. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on teenage and adult patients who have aesthetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene since ceramic braces are larger. The only drawback to ceramic brackets is that they are more fragile and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits with certain foods and smoking.
Invisible Braces
Clear appliances, such as Invisalign, use a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth. No one can tell you are wearing those aligners because they are invisible! Invisalign aligners are removable so you are not limited in what you can eat and drink during treatment. Plus… brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. 
Invisible Braces (Lingual Braces)
Lingual braces are the invisible alternative for patients who don’t want to wear braces or when Invisalign is not an option. Placed behind your teeth, no one will know that you are wearing braces unless you tell them. These unique braces are created using state-of-the-art technology and are 100% customized to the shape of your teeth and dental situation. Lingual braces have the unique prescription that creates for you, built-in to ensure you get the results that you want. With lingual braces you get efficient, effective tooth movement with great aesthetics.
