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Metal braces, Clear braces, or Invisalign?

Straightening your smile can be fun, but how do you decide which option is best for you? We offer 3 options for orthodontic care including traditional metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign (the clear and removable alternative). This blog will explain the 3 different options available to you here at Kelleher Orthodontics.

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the braces that have been used for years. The brackets will be placed onto each tooth, a wire will be placed within the bracket, and a color tie will be placed around the bracket to secure the wire in place. This option is very popular with kids, as many of them love the fun of picking their colors and changing them at each appointment.

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Clear Braces

Clear braces follow the same concept as the metal braces but are made up of a clear ceramic material rather than the traditional metal. Each bracket will be placed directly onto each tooth, a white coated wire will be placed directly into the brackets, and a clear color tie will be placed around each bracket to secure the wire into place. This option is very popular with teens and adults as it helps to reduce the visibility of braces.

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Invisalign

Invisalign is the clear and removable alternative to braces. Invisalign is a technolgy that customizes aligners specifically for you! With Invisalign your teeth will be scanned on a digital scanner, which then creates a 3D image of your teeth and simulates a predicted outcome. The image is then sent off to Invisalign where your custom trays will be manufactured. Upon completion, your aligners will be delivered to you and you will start your journey to a straight smile. Each aligner can be inserted and removed before and after eating and brushing allowing you to eat the foods you want. Each aligner is worn for at least 22 hours a day as each individual one is focusing on different teeth and different areas. Your aligner will typically be changed out weekly. As times are beginning to change, Invisalign is becoming a more popular choice in teens and adults.

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