Types of Braces

Thanks to today’s advances in orthodontic technology, Orthodontics by Ken Lawrence can provide our patients with more options when it comes to wearing braces than ever before. While traditional metal braces are still widely used, clear braces are very popular with teens and adults who are self-conscious about wearing braces. Dr. Ken Lawrence will help you determine which treatment option 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.

Close-up of a smiling mouth with traditional metal braces featuring colorful pink elastics, illustrating orthodontic treatment options available at Orthodontics by Ken Lawrence.

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.

Ceramic braces on teeth demonstrating a less visible orthodontic option for aesthetic-conscious patients.

Invisible Braces

Clear appliances, such as SimplyClear Aligners, use a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth. Clear 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.

Person inserting a clear aligner onto teeth, showcasing invisible braces used for orthodontic treatment.