Types of Braces

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael P. Folck is pleased to offer our patients alternatives to traditional silver wire and bracket braces. Traditional braces can distract from your smile, leaving you feeling awkward and uncomfortable. With modern advancements in cosmetic orthodontia, you can have the straight, aligned bite you deserve without the initial embarrassment of obvious braces.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces all use a wire-and-bracket system to move your teeth into position. They come in many different styles, including:

• Metal
• Ceramic, which can be tooth-colored
• Clear
• Lingual

The thought of clear or tooth-colored braces makes many people excited. However, most of the time the description only applies to the bracket part of the braces. The wire is generally still metal. And unfortunately the ceramic and clear braces still use ligatures--rubber bands that can and do stain, although the brackets themselves are generally stain-resistant.

Invisalign

Invisalign has also been described as "clear braces," though technically they're not braces at all. Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear, removable aligner trays to straighten your teeth. A popular option for adults, Invisalign is expanding into the youth market to offer teenagers a wire-free orthodontic solution.

Invisalign has proven effective in correcting minor malocclusion and crooked teeth, but is not the ideal solution for all orthodontic problems. Some patients find Invisalign easier than living with braces when it comes to eating and cleaning. However, others find Invisalign mildly interrupts speaking abilities.

Each patient has unique needs and desires. Dr. Folck will work closely with you to help you determine what orthodontic option will best meet your needs.

If you live in or around Portsmouth, Norfolk, Hampton, Chesapeake, Newport, or Virginia Beach, Virginia and are looking for an alternative to traditional braces, please contact experienced cosmetic dentist Michael P. Folck DDS today to schedule a free consultation.