Dental braces are a widely employed orthodontic treatment used to align and straighten teeth, enhancing both function and appearance. They work by gently applying pressure, repositioning teeth to create a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing smile. This process involves gradual tooth movement as the jawbones adapt to the applied pressure, leading to long-term improvements in oral health.


It's crucial to dispel the misconception that braces are solely for children and teenagers. In reality, adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment to attain the smile they desire. Age is not the primary factor in determining eligibility for braces; rather, the suitability of the treatment for an individual's specific needs and goals takes precedence.

Types of Braces

  1. Metal Braces (Traditional Braces):
    - Traditional braces, constructed from sturdy stainless-steel brackets and a flexible metal archwire, are a well-established means of correcting misaligned jaws.
    - Some metal braces feature heat-activated archwires, expediting tooth movement, and can be personalized with colorful rubber bands.
    - Despite advances in orthodontic technology, metal braces remain popular for their effectiveness in jaw alignment correction.
  2. Ceramic Braces (Clear Braces):
    - Ceramic braces, a variation of traditional metal braces, differ primarily in the material used for brackets.
    - They feature transparent or tooth-colored brackets that blend with the teeth's natural color, and the accompanying wires and rubber bands are either transparent or tooth-colored.
    - These braces offer effective treatment while maintaining a less conspicuous appearance compared to metal braces.
  3. Crystal Clear Braces:
    - Crystal clear brackets provide a nearly invisible solution for achieving straight teeth.
    - These brackets are entirely transparent, seamlessly blending with natural tooth color.
    - In contrast to opaque ceramic brackets, clear brackets are virtually invisible, making them an ideal cosmetic option for orthodontic treatment, particularly for adult patients.
  4. Lingual Braces (Incognito or Hidden Braces):
    - Lingual braces resemble traditional metal braces but have brackets and wires attached to the inside of the teeth, rendering them invisible to onlookers.
    - While they offer discreet orthodontic treatment, they were previously bulkier and less comfortable. However, advancements in technology have made them more comfortable and just as effective as other brace types.
  5. Self-Ligating Braces:
    - Self-ligating braces have gained popularity in recent years. They share similarities with metal and ceramic braces, utilizing a bracket and wire system.
    - Their key distinction is the absence of rubber bands, replaced by a sliding bracket mechanism with "doors" or "clips" that attach to the wire. This design results in reduced friction and discomfort compared to traditional braces.
    - Self-ligating braces are available in various metal and ceramic options.
  6. Invisible Braces (Clear Aligners):
    - Invisible braces, also known as clear aligners, are nearly imperceptible orthodontic devices made from clear, transparent plastic.
    - Custom-fitted to each patient's teeth, these aligners are created based on 3D models derived from advanced technology like x-rays, scans, and mouth photos.
    - These aligners gradually shift the teeth into their correct positions, with regular orthodontist visits to monitor progress.

If you are contemplating braces, consult with an orthodontic specialist who can assess your oral health and determine your suitability for the treatment.