Types of Braces

Metal Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

Damon Bracket System

The Damon Bracket System is a passive self ligating bracket system that does away with the need for elastic or metal ties and can possibly eliminate the need for permanent tooth extraction.  With conventional braces, orthodontists are often forced to pull teeth in order to create space for crowding teeth. The Damon System uses biologically sensible forces which work with the body's natural adaptive processes to create space naturally, this way orthodontists using the Damon System can now treat most cases without extraction.

In the few cases which still require extraction, space is made to improve facial balance and symmetry to provide a natural smile and profile that will last as you age.

The Damon System is generally used in specific dental cases, which can be determined by Dr. Barnett.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and are more brittle than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, ceramic braces tend to be used more on upper front teeth than on lower teeth.

Invisible (Clear) Orthodontic Appliances

Invisalign®

Invisalign® uses a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth. And, no one can tell you are wearing Invisalign because it's invisible! Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. Click here to learn more about Invisalign.