Braces Specialist

What are braces?

Braces are orthodontic appliances bonded to your natural teeth. They place mild pressure on your teeth and jaw, improving their position and alignment. Some braces utilize archwires, brackets, and rubber bands. Others look like mouthguards and snap into place over your teeth.

In addition to straightening your teeth and jaw, braces improve your oral health. If your teeth have the correct amount of space between them, they’re easier to brush, floss, and care for. When combined, these factors lower the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bone loss.

What are the types of braces?

At Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD, Dr. Bolden offers several types of braces, including:

Conventional metal braces

Conventional braces are made of high-grade stainless steel. They feature flexible archwires, metal Damon™ brackets, and rubber bands. Each of the components works together to gradually move your teeth, improving the appearance and symmetry of your smile.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces are similar to conventional metal braces. The only difference is that they don’t use rubber bands. That means fewer checkups and less friction placed on your teeth. Dr. Bolden offers self-ligating braces with metal, ceramic, or clear brackets. She attaches a special clip to the archwire to guide your teeth into place.

Clear ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are made of materials that mimic the color and light-reflecting properties of your natural tooth enamel. These unique features allow them to blend in with your smile. 

Ceramic braces require regular checkups and preventive maintenance because they’re larger and more brittle than their metallic counterparts. Dr. Bolden typically recommends applying them to the upper front teeth. 

Invisalign® 

Invisalign uses a series of clear, nearly invisible plastic aligners to straighten your teeth. The aligners are made of SmartTrack®, a tough, durable material free of BPA, BPS, latex, and gluten. You wear the aligners 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to brush your teeth or eat.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are like conventional metal braces, but they’re bonded to the back of your teeth instead of the front. That allows you to receive orthodontic treatment discreetly. 

What types of braces are right for me?

To determine the type of braces that are right for you, Dr. Bolden conducts an oral exam, asks about your goals and lifestyle, and takes digital X-rays. After assessing the position of your teeth and jaw and thoroughly discussing your treatment options, she develops a custom care plan that aligns with your schedule, age, and needs.

To learn more about braces, make an appointment at Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.