At Centennial Hills Orthodontics, we use the latest, time-tested bracket technology to assist in tooth movement. While braces are generally designed to accomplish the same function regardless of what is used to hold the wire in place, it is also true that certain cases can benefit from one type of bracket over another. Ask the doctor which type of braces is right for you.
Self-ligating Brackets- brackets which do not require elastomeric ties (little colored bands) to hold the wire in place. These brackets are available in both silver and clear under names such as In-Ovation, Damon, Speed, SmartClip and Vision.
Self-ligating brackets offer many advantages over traditional braces such as:
- Lighter wire forces » Increased patient comfort
- Faster wire changes » Less chair time at appointments
- No elastic ties » Improved oral hygiene
- Reduced friction on wires » Fewer appointments and shorter treatment
Twin Brackets- the most common braces in the world, having been used since the early 1900's. These brackets use elastomeric ties (colored bands) to hold the wire in place. Twin brackets are available in silver, clear and gold.
Silver Braces - the most common type of braces, they are made of high-grade stainless steel.
Clear Braces - the most popular choice of bracket for the adult orthodontic population, they are made of ceramic, composite or polyurethane. These brackets offer an aesthetic advantage, but are more brittle than stainless steel and have a greater incidence of staining.
Gold Braces - popular with patients for an aesthetic alternative, the brackets are stainless steel braces coated with 24-karat gold. They function similarly to stainless steel braces, but are not currently available in a self-ligating model.