TYPES OF BRACES, INVISALIGN, & RETAINERS
METAL BRACES
Metal braces are the most popular type of brackets used in orthodontics today. Advances in bracket technology allow us to use braces that are smaller and more comfortable for patients, while maintaining the highest level of effectiveness. Metal braces also come with the option of adding colored elastics on top of the brackets for a colorful, unique smile. Esthetic alternatives are available, but metal braces remain the standard to which all other appliances are measured against.
CERAMIC BRACES
Ceramic braces are a viable option for any patient that requires a highly esthetic alternative to metal braces. While offering a distinct cosmetic advantage over metal braces, ceramic brackets tend to be larger in size, more expensive, and are more susceptible to staining and fracture. For these reasons, a combination of ceramic brackets on upper teeth and metal brackets on lower teeth is often used.
INVISALIGN
Invisalign is another cosmetic alternative to metal braces. The Invisalign system provides a virtually invisible method of straightening teeth through a series of clear polyurethane aligners. While capable of producing excellent results, careful case diagnosis and treatment planning is necessary to determine if a patient can be successfully treated with Invisalign. Dr. Fong is a Certified Preferred Invisalign Provider and would be happy to provide you with a complimentary consultation to determine if Invisalign is an appropriate treatment for you.
RETAINERS (Wire VS. Clear)
Orthodontic treatment is capable of straightening teeth and creating beautiful smiles. However, once your beautiful smile is achieved, we want to make sure you keep it for life! A set of custom retainers will be made and given to you at the end of your active orthodontic treatment to guarantee that your teeth stay in their ideal positions. It's important to understand that your teeth will move back to their original positions if you do not wear your retainers as prescribed by Dr. Fong. So please make sure to wear your retainers! As much as we enjoy seeing you in our office, we wouldn't want you to trade your beautiful smile for a second round of braces.