Getting an orthodontic consultation and hearing all about the types of braces out there can be a bit overwhelming to start with. We get that. The fact is there are a whole lot more options available now than there used to be, and that can make it seem like a lot more to consider than it really needs to be. That’s a big reason why we take the time to walk through everything with you in a way that makes sense and isn’t just a load of technical jargon. That way when we’re done talking you’ll have a good idea of what to expect and what works best for you. Oral Surgery includes specialized dental procedures such as tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, and other treatments designed to improve comfort, function, and oral health.

The type of braces most people are familiar with are the traditional metal ones and they still do the job really well. They’re made up of metal brackets that get attached to the teeth and a wire that gets adjusted as you go along to nudge the teeth into the right positions. The ones we use today are a lot smaller and a lot more comfortable than the ones most people remember from their own childhood. They’re great for a wide range of problems and especially useful for younger patients who can handle the fact that they are a bit more heavy-duty and need to be adjusted every now and then. Our Smile Gallery showcases real smile transformations, giving patients a closer look at treatment results and helping them feel confident about beginning their own smile journey.

Ceramic or clear braces are basically the same as metal ones, only the brackets are made out of a tooth-coloured material that blends in with your teeth. These are a big hit with older teens and adults because they give you the strength and durability of metal braces without being quite so noticeable. Be aware though that they do need a bit more care to keep them clean and are a little more prone to staining. But if you’re willing to put in the effort then they are a great option.

We also offer Invisalign as an alternative to traditional braces for people who can stick to it. Invisalign is basically a series of clear plastic trays that are custom made to fit over your teeth and get swapped out every few weeks or so. Because they are removable it makes eating and cleaning a whole lot easier, but we do tell our patients that it’s all about being committed to wearing them all day long. They don’t work if you don’t wear them. They work best for people who can be counted on to follow through.

We are happy to meet with anyone in the Irvine area who is trying to figure out what types of braces are available and which one might be right for them. It’s always a good idea to do some reading up and get an idea of what your options are, but at the end of the day a one-on-one meeting with us is the best way to get a proper look at your teeth and get some real advice on what will work best for you.

We see patients of all ages and the thing is, what is right for a ten year old is often a world apart from what will be right for a thirty year old. What kind of braces to go with depends on a whole bunch of things including your age, your lifestyle, the level of correction that is needed and your own personal preferences. We’ll help you and your family work through all those things and come up with a plan that makes sense to you.

At Irvine Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry we’re proud to be a part of the Irvine community and we love helping people find their way towards a straighter, healthier smile. If you’ve been trying to figure out what types of braces in Irvine might work best for you or your child, come on in and talk to us. We’ll give you the full picture and make sure you feel confident in your choice.