At Dr. Scott McElroy’s San Ramon orthodontic office, we provide all types of dental braces. From traditional metal braces to more discreet alternatives, we are here to provide you with whatever orthodontic treatment plan you need to achieve your dream smile. Depending on your orthodontic concerns, you may require a different kind of braces than you originally sought out. However, rest assured that our team is on your side and will work with you to come up with a treatment plan that best meets your needs. To best determine which type of braces will work for your smile, please schedule an appointment with our office. Below are common types of dental braces that we recommend to our patients:
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type of braces because they are a reliable and economical approach to teeth straightening. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces involve the firm attaching of brackets and wires to your dental structures. These brackets and wires remain on your teeth surfaces until your treatment is complete. The wire is held securely against the brackets through the use of small bands. Patients are able to choose colorful elastic bands if they want a more original look. Every few weeks, you will need to visit the orthodontist’s office to get the wires tightened. As the wires are tightened more and more, your teeth will begin to shift due to the added pressure.
Ceramic Braces
Our office offers Clarity Ceramic Braces for patients looking for a more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Clarity Ceramic Braces are just as effective as metal braces, only they blend in with your natural smile more. Instead of metal brackets, Clarity Ceramic Braces utilize ceramic brackets that more closely resemble your natural smile aesthetics. The brackets’ edges are rounded to provide patients with maximum comfort. Ceramic braces are a top choice among our adult patients as they allow for the treatment of moderate to severe orthodontic concerns while still allowing them to maintain a non-metallic smile.
Invisible Braces
For teen and adult patients looking for a practically invisible option for straightening their smiles, our office offers Invisalign Clear Braces. Invisalign Clear Braces operate on an aligner system and is best used to treat mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. The aligners are clear and removable, making them ideal for patients who do not want to deal with the dietary restrictions and added oral hygiene maintenance that typically comes with ceramic or metal braces. Invisalign also requires less time spent in the dental chair because patients are given their aligners upfront instead of having to come to the orthodontist’s office every few weeks to get their wires tightened.
Lingual Braces
In some situations, lingual braces can be placed on the inner portion of the teeth, facing the tongue, to assist in straightening your smile. Using your teeth to hide the hardware, lingual braces work similarly to metal braces; however, no one will ever know that they are there except for you and your orthodontist. There are some setbacks to keep in mind with lingual braces. They can be significantly more expensive than other braces alternatives. They also require a bit more time for the wearer to get used to them, and they may slightly prolong treatment. Additionally, lingual braces can only be used to fix a limited amount of orthodontic concerns. However, this treatment option is still one to consider if you are a candidate for it because it is perhaps the most discreet alternative to traditional metal braces.