TYPE OF BRACES

Ceramic brackets are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth compared to metal braces. The o-rings (tiny rubber bands) that hold the arch wire on to the brackets are often white or clear. People tend to choose ceramic brackets for cosmetic reasons because they “blend in” with their teeth. These brackets are slightly larger compared to metal brackets. They are usually only used on the upper front teeth (front eight), as these brackets can sometimes cause wear of the opposing teeth through biting. However, in some bites ceramic braces can be suitable for both the upper and lower teeth. We offer the strength and smaller profile of 3M Clarity brackets which are completely metal free and the self ligating Innovation C ceramic brackets which have a small tiny metal gate that holds the wire inside the bracket (instead of the above mentioned o-rings).

This treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable plastic trays like a thin mouthguard that straighten your teeth like braces. Small attachments of tooth coloured dots on the teeth may be used in conjunction with the aligner trays. Patients find brushing and flossing easier as the trays can be removed to eat, drink and brush teeth.  However Clear Aligner wearers must be strongly disciplined about wearing their aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day in order for treatment to work.  Invisalign or other aligner companies is generally a more expensive option than traditional braces. We do have the option of printing our own 3D models with our Asiga 3D printer for aligners to be made in house. This is an economical option for straightening teeth however it is only suitable in mild crowding or minor cases.