Types of Braces

Traditional Metal Braces

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.


Self-Ligating Braces

self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces are made from the same materials as traditional braces. However, self-ligating braces do not require the require the use of colored elastics on the braces during the entire treatment, meaning fewer appointments and less friction being placed on the tooth. Self-ligating braces come with traditional metal, or ceramic clear brackets. They are the same size as metal braces, but use a specialized clip in place of elastics to hold the wire in place. The clip helps reduce the amount of pressure being placed on the tooth, and requires fewer adjustments because there are elastics on the braces to replace.  You are able to use the colored elastics on the braces if desired.


Clear (Ceramic) Braces

clear 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.


invisalign

 MenkerAlign Clear Aligners

MenkerAlign clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, affordable and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. 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.


Incognito Lingual Braces

lingual braces

Incognito lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth and are therefore "invisible" when you smile. Lingual braces are 100% customized to match the shape of your teeth; the metal appliances are created uniquely for you. Dr. Menker is one of the few "Premier" providers for Incognito.   Lingual braces are a very reasonable option for athletes, models, actors/actresses, musicians who play wind instruments, and adult professionals.