The Different Types of Braces

Article by Dr. Leaver & Dr. Gardner

For every option, there is an equally excellent or better option, or something like that. These days it seems like we live in the times of options galore. Just when you think you know what you want, you find it in a better color or for a better price because, well, options. Think about how many choices you had to make just to get dressed this morning. Sometimes the decision-making can get overwhelming, and we just need someone to lay it all out for us and help us decide between some of those never-ending options.

While our doctors and their skilled team may not be able to help you choose which shirt to wear with those pants or if you should buy that new purse, when it comes to the different types of braces, they have the experience and knowledge to guide you to the choice that best fit your smile needs. Don’t get yourself all worked up in an online search trying to compare the different types of braces. We’ve broken down each orthodontic treatment option we offer here at Leaver and Gardner Orthodontics so you can easily figure out the differences.

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BRACES

We understand that choosing to get your teeth straightened with orthodontics is a big decision. After all, your smile is the window to your personality. Here at Leaver and Gardner Orthodontics, we respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way you look and feel. We’ll work with you every step of the way to make sure your orthodontic care with us is among the best experiences you’ve ever had. Let us help you make the best investment you’ve ever made – your smile!

DAMON SELF-LIGATING BRACES

This technique uses metal brackets and wire similar to traditional metal braces, but instead of using elastic bands, it uses brackets that have special doors and clips that secure to the wire, meaning you’ll come to our office fewer times for adjustments. This design allows the brackets to move along the wire a bit more freely and can cause less irritation and discomfort that is commonly associated with elastic adjustments. Studies show some patients with Damon braces may finish their treatment more quickly – as much as six months sooner than they would with traditional braces.

DAMON CLEAR BRACES

Clear braces are an up-and-coming option similar to conventional metal braces. This ingenious option works just like metal braces, except that this method swaps the metal brackets for clear Damon self-ligating brackets, making them virtually undetectable. Many of our teen patients have even found that using bright-colored elastic ties can create an almost neon effect that really pops!

INVISALIGN AND INVISALIGN TEEN

Clear aligners like Invisalign have really gained popularity in the last decade as technology has made them more inconspicuous, more efficient, and more budget-friendly. Similar to the post-braces retainer trays they evolved from, Invisalign clear aligners fit comfortably over your teeth and make minor adjustments over time for patients needing a “touch up” as well as for patients who have mild to moderate dental problems like misaligned teeth, large overbite, no jaw alignment problems, or those who have gaps in their front teeth- an open bite.

We are also excited to offer a unique new Invisalign option called Invisalign Teen for our teen braces patients. The basics of Invisalign Teen are identical to regular Invisalign, except that you’ll have space left in your clear plastic aligners to make room for your adult molars that haven’t yet come in.

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH IS BEST FOR ME?

We know it can be a tough decision, especially when there is no way for you to know what your tooth and jaw structure look like just from looking in the mirror. We will walk you through a complete oral examination when you come in for your complimentary consultation. During this tour through your teeth, we will take x-rays and photos to analyze your tooth shape, smile display, and all aesthetic aspects of your lips and mouth. This is done to show you how your smile would benefit from orthodontic treatment but also to help us see the functional aspects and needs of your teeth and jaws. We want you to know exactly how your face, jaws, and smile would improve from orthodontic treatment and the best way to get to that goal.

FOR AN EXPERT’S OPINION, CHOOSE LEAVER AND GARDNER ORTHODONTICS

Our compassionate team at Leaver and Gardner Orthodontics in Northwest Las Vegas and Summerlin are here to walk you through the myriad of orthodontic options available to get you the smile that matches your personality. Step by step, we will work alongside you and your family through the treatment and logistics options until we reach a result that is perfect for you or your child.

Whether it be conventional metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign or Invisalign Teen, we want our patients to radiate confidence and love the way they look and feel. Schedule your FREE consultation! We always make sure you leave our office happy!