Conventional braces are suitable for all patients and can treat the widest variety of orthodontic cases. At Embassy Row Orthodontics, we offer metal, clear and lingual braces to our patients in Washington D.C. We’ll discuss the benefits of each and suggest the best treatment option for you at your initial consultation.
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are an incredibly effective method of orthodontic treatment. These braces are what most people think of when they think of orthodontic treatment but technology has enhanced their effectiveness. Today they are lighter and smaller than ever before, creating a more comfortable treatment experience for patients wearing them.
Metal braces are made of high-quality, durable stainless steel and have a few standard components that allow for individual customization:
- Brackets – bonded to the front of each tooth.
- Archwire – connects the brackets to one another and helps guide the teeth into the correct positions.
- Bands – keep the archwire in place on the bracket. These can be clear or colored, which patients enjoy selecting to customize their smile.
Damon braces
Damon braces look much like traditional metal braces but for one unique feature. Damon braces feature self-ligating brackets that use light, high technology wires to aid in accelerated movement of your teeth. Unlike braces that use elastic ties to hold the wires in place, Damon brackets have a mechanism in the bracket that secures the wire, making them a more hygienic treatment option. This allows us to treat you without the uncomfortable tightening of your brackets, making your orthodontic experience faster and more enjoyable.
Clear braces
Clear braces work the same as metal braces, but they allow your teeth to undergo orthodontic treatment more discreetly, as they are less visible. We offer transparent and ceramic braces that closely match the color of your teeth. We also offer Damon Clear braces and Inspire ICE see-through braces, both renowned for their innovative technology.
Clear braces are different from Invisalign. Clear aligners are pieces of hard plastic that are designed to fit into your mouth like a mouthguard, whereas clear braces use the same technology as traditional metal braces.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are another discreet treatment option that are designed to be placed on the back of the teeth. Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces in that they use brackets and archwires but are contoured to hug the lingual (or tongue-side) surface of your teeth. This makes them virtually invisible to others around you as they can’t see the small alloy brackets behind your teeth.
Lingual braces can take a little longer to adjust to. Because of their position next to your tongue, they will affect your speech – but only temporarily. We encourage patients who have been fitted with lingual braces to talk as much as possible. The sooner your mouth adjusts to having the lingual braces fitted, the faster your speech will return to normal.
Invisalign
If you have been avoiding straightening your teeth because you don’t like the look of braces, Invisalign is a revolutionary treatment option that is virtually invisible. Learn more about Invisalign.
Which braces are right for you?
Book a free consultation today to find out which type of braces is right for you.
