About Braces

Braces continue to be a popular choice among those seeking to achieve the perfect smile. These conventional metal or ceramic brackets remain unmatched due to their versatility in treating both mild and complex conditions affecting various areas of the mouth.

Their durability, adjustability, and wide range of colors also appeal greatly to individuals, especially teenagers wanting stylish additions. Despite some discomfort or difficulty when initially applying elastic bands or tightening wires, these inconveniences are brief and ultimately worth enduring considering significant cosmetic enhancements.

With proper home care and supportive visits, most people complete their orthodontic therapy within two years. Discover if braces could serve as the best option for you and discover why countless others have chosen them before. Schedule an orthodontic consultation with Orthodontic Centers of New Mexico and embark on the path to improved self-confidence!

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive. As one of the oldest methods available for straightening teeth, traditional metal braces retain their place as a trustworthy option to correct misaligned bites and gaps. They rely on small metal brackets bonded onto the surface of the teeth to apply light forces through cables and springs that control movements over time. The system remains tried and true; however, they are less discrete compared to newer alternatives. Adjustments require manual manipulation instead of automated software thus reducing overall convenience.

curly hair woman with brackets on biege background

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. Each translucent or opaque bracket is custom-made from high-quality composite material to blend in with natural enamel color variations and reduce noticeability. While the look may seem appealing, it does come with certain tradeoffs: greater fragility, higher cost, and potentially longer treatment times. Nonetheless, many patients still opt for ceramic since they don’t suffer breakage as frequently as old plastics used in clear aligners.

Invisalign®

The Invisalign system is a series of clear overlay templates—called aligners—that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. Boasting cutting-edge technology in modern orthodontia, Invisalign has revolutionized smile alignment without sacrificing style. This clear aligner therapy utilizes a series of removable, transparent trays tailored to the contours of each person’s dentition following digital mapping. Wearing up to twenty-two sets every day and gradually transitioning between successively more refined versions leads to the gradual movement of the teeth over several weeks.

If you’re ready to take control of your own oral health, consider speaking directly to our orthodontic team for personalized advice. At your orthodontic consultation, we will assess whether conventional braces, clear aligners, or other forms of care can bring lasting improvements to your smile.

Customizing effective strategies based on the individual requires careful consideration of numerous factors including your lifestyle preferences. Whether hoping to maintain a low profile while undergoing treatment or willing to invest in additional refinement with clear ceramics, everyone deserves choices for realigning their ideal smile.

Don’t miss out by waiting too long – schedule your complimentary orthodontic evaluation today and start paving the way toward confident interactions and enhanced happiness. Let Orthodontic Center of New Mexico partner with you throughout your exciting journey to a beautiful new smile.