Types of Braces

Braces Treatment from Buttram Orthodontics in Panama City

Dental technology is always getting better. You’ll get the latest orthodontic treatments at Buttram Orthodontics when you choose one the types of braces treatments that we offer.

By pairing state-of-the-art technology with our thorough understanding of the movement and growth of the teeth and jaws, we’re able to successfully treat many dental issues, like:

  • Crowded teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Protruding teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Impacted teeth

A lot of our patients choose traditional metal braces to straighten their teeth and there are lots of reasons why. Dr. Buttram will talk to you about which treatment would be right for you based on your unique needs and smile goals.

Metal Braces

Traditional braces have been around for a long time, and they’re probably the most recognizable type of braces. These orthodontic workhouses have a long history of successful treatment and are great at correcting many oral issues.

Metal braces have had a reputation for being awkward and obvious, but because of modern orthodontics, you will benefit from versions that are smaller, less conspicuous, and more comfortable than ever before. Sleeker brackets and lighter wires improve the appearance and feel of these braces. This means you will have less irritation in your mouth.

Traditional metal braces also come with a fun new twist without any extra cost - you can customize them with pops of color. The elastics that fit around your brackets come in a wide variety of colors that let you showcase your personality whenever you want.

Pick your favorite color combination, the colors of your favorite sports team, even your school colors! We also offer silver, gray, white, black, and tooth-colored elastics for patients seeking a more subtle look. Braces are great at fixing complex tooth issues. They can work faster at closing gaps and aligning teeth than other treatments might. This can potentially shorten your treatment time.

Metal braces are a cost-effective option because they don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do. The strength, durability, and affordability of traditional metal braces keep them the top treatment for orthodontic patients, year after year!

Because metal braces get right down to work, you’ll be able to see some signs of progress in a relatively short period of time. It may not seem like much, but sometimes seeing even a small improvement in your smile can give you an encouraging boost on your orthodontic journey.

Clear Braces

Ceramic brackets are a less obvious way to straighten your smile when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties. This option is especially attractive if you are an esthetic-minded adult or teen.

Ceramic braces are perfect if you want an aesthetic treatment option but don't want the extra hassle of removable aligners and the responsibility of wear time with clear aligner systems like Invisalign®. Even though most patients in ceramic braces love how discrete they are, we do have some teens and adults who like to use colored ligature ties. This gives braces an almost neon look. The colors pop off the clear brackets, creating a really unique look most people haven’t seen before.

Differences Between Metal Braces and Clear Braces

Metal braces are known for their durability and strength. Ceramic braces are also tough, but they are made from a different, more fragile material that is more likely to chip or crack. Traditional braces are also better at tolerating pressure than newer ceramic ones.

If you need more drastic corrections, metal braces could be a better option. Adjustments with ceramic braces have to be slightly smaller, so it can take a little more time to align your teeth. Having said that, both types of braces work on the same principles and tend to be equally as effective in most cases.

You may be worried about ceramic braces staining, but that hasn’t been a problem for several years. Ceramic brackets won’t stain. But, the adhesive used to attach the brackets to the teeth and the clear elastic ties used to hold the wires in can stain. This can give an overall impression of discoloration or staining over time. You can choose to avoid things like coffee and tea, red wine, tomatoes, mustard, etc. to cut back on the chance of any staining, but this isn’t necessary since we change your elastics at every adjustment appointment. As long as you maintain a good oral hygiene routine, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about giving up your morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine.

To learn more about all of the types of braces offered by Buttram Orthodontics, schedule a free consultation today!