Types of Braces
Passive Self Ligating Braces
Pitts 21 is an advanced self-ligating braces system that uses low friction and continuous, gentle forces to shift teeth. Designed for 3D control and faster treatment times, it eliminates the need for traditional elastic ties.
- Fewer Appointments: Utilizes a progressive slot and square-wire finish, frequently allowing treatment to be completed using as few as four wire changes.
- Enhanced Comfort: The brackets have a low-profile design with smooth, rounded edges, which limits soft-tissue irritation.
- Improved Hygiene: Without rubber elastic ties, there are fewer spaces to trap food and debris, making brushing and flossing easier.
- No Extraction Focus: Designed to expand the smile without needing tooth extractions or additional appliances like expanders in many cases.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.
Clear (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 older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.
