Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive.
Damon® Brackets
Damon® braces were invented by Dr. Dwight Damon. The Damon® bracket utilizes (sliding-door) technology known as "self-ligation" that allows the wire to slide back and forth within the bracket.
No elastic or steel ties are used with Damon® brackets. This technology creates less friction and results in greater comfort for the patient. In addition, Damon® braces often reduce both treatment time and the number of adjustments that are usually performed.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.
Lingual Braces
In some limited cases, such as crowding of the front teeth, lingual braces may be used. Lingual braces are placed behind the upper and/or lower teeth, creating a more aesthetically pleasing effect. Because the brackets and archwire are actually placed at the back of your teeth, they are virtually undetectable, allowing you to retain your normal appearance for the duration of your treatment.
Herbst Appliance
The Herbst Appliance can treat the discrepancy that occurs when the upper teeth protrude beyond the lower by encouraging the lower jaw to catch up in growth. Even though the Herbst appliance prevents the lower jaw from moving backward, opening and closing movement still occur easily, and patients do not have any problems learning to chew their food with their lower jaw in this new position.