Types of Appliances
As you can imagine, there are a number and variety of appliances available, each to suit an individual’s own needs and preferences. Each of these devices carries with it, its own cost, as well as its own treatment time frame. If you have a particular preference, please speak to your doctor so that the correct appliances are quoted on from the start.

If you have any questions regarding any of the appliances, and they have not been answered here, or on our FAQ page, please don’t hesitate to ask us – we are here to help you!

Let’s take a look at some of the options …

Steel/Ceramic
Lingual
Invisalign
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel braces are still a firm favorite and popular choice for many patients.

In the past, you may have noticed that stainless steel braces were less than attractive and quite noticeable, but orthodontics have thankfully come a long way and now you will find that these types of braces offer smaller brackets and thinner wires, which means that they are less noticeable and still have all the benefits.

Why stainless steel over other choices?
Most cost-effective
Although more visible than other varieties, they are perfect for kids who can choose from a variety of colors to make things fun
Know to be quicker as they are quite robust

Ceramic
Ceramic braces, also known as clear braces are the choice of many. These braces are almost invisible! Many people are worried about the aesthetic appeal of their braces and while you cant completely hide the fact that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, you can lessen the obviousness of it.

The main difference between ceramic orthodontics and traditional stainless steel braces are the brackets that your orthodontist will fix to your teeth. With ceramic braces, clear or natural tooth coloured brackets are used which make the entire system a lot less conspicuous than typical metal braces. In both types of treatments, the wire is still present and visible.

Ceramic braces are exactly the same as traditional metal braces in every other way and you can expect for your treatment to last the same amount of time, regardless of which type you choose. Ceramic braces may however be slightly more expensive than the stainless steel variety.

Why are ceramics popular?
Stain-resistant which means that they won’t discolour
The composite material irritates gums slightly less than traditional braces

Lingual
These braces fit on the insides of the actual teeth – by the tongue, which means that you cannot see them during the treatment. You may struggle with discomfort initially as it is something for the tongue to get used to, and it may take a little time and concentration to form your words around your appliance, but it most certainly doable! And since they cannot be seen, they definitely have aesthetic appeal!

Lingual systems are a particularly good choice for adult patients who want to maintain a professional appeal while the perfect smile is being created. It can also be the perfect option for a teenager with low self esteem and shyness.

Invisalign
If you’re looking for inconspicuous treatment, then this is the way to go! Invisalign braces are the least invasive form of orthodontic treatment that can get your teeth straight and get you smiling! Invisalign can be used to treat orthodontic problems such as cross bite, overbite, under bite, crowding, and spacing.

These braces are known to be “aligners” and consist of clear, tieless braces which are incorporated into a system of high technology wires. Invisalign braces can be removed and are fairly discreet. This is what makes them a viable option for adults. As this tends to be a more costly root it is not necessarily the best option for young children who have a habit of losing and breaking things. Treatment length depends on the complexity of your case – no two people will require the teeth aligners to be worn for the same amount of time.

Why is Invisalign so popular?
You don’t need to avoid certain foods
Removable, this means that if you have a special event or function, you can remove the braces
You can brush and floss normally during your treatment
Generally more comfortable than regular braces

This really is an excellent treatment plan for the simpler cases but as mentioned above; will not be the best choice for the very complex cases. Your doctor will be able to advise you as on your best options.