metal Braces or clear braces

Fixed appliances or braces are the traditional method of straightening teeth. Braces guide the teeth into alignment by moving them gradually over time by applying gentle and consistent pressure with the use of a wire that attaches to brackets along the front of your teeth. Brackets are first bonded onto the teeth.  These brackets can be made of metal or porcelain (clear braces) and then the wire is placed in the brackets.   The wire is held in place by a locking mechanism in the braces or with elastics ties.  These elastic ties can be clear for our patients looking for an esthetic option or brightly colored, which is a popular option for teens and children.  Braces are custom-fit to each patient’s mouth and progress is monitored at each orthodontic appointment.

Although fixed braces are most often associated with teenagers (known as teen braces), adults requiring correction of malocclusion are often candidates for traditional fixed braces. In fact, approximately 25% of all patients with braces are adults. At Fresh Smile Orthodontics, we understand the importance of your appearance and comfort during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, in addition to metal braces, we offer the option of clear braces or porcelain braces, which are less visible and an excellent alternative to metal braces. Moreover, porcelain braces are hypo-allergenic, as they do not contain any nickel component.