Types of Orthodontic Treatment

Types of Orthodontic Treatment

A woman with braces smiles text reads types of orthodontic treatment shine orthodontics live life shining

Orthodontic treatment is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. It's more than just achieving a beautiful smile; it's about improving your oral health and function. 

If you, your child, or your significant other are showing signs of needing orthodontic treatment, such as crooked teeth, bite issues, or jaw discomfort, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best course of action.  

Discover how you can know when you need orthodontic treatment here

The wide array of treatment options, each with its own set of benefits and considerations, can make the decision process daunting.  

In this blog, we will explore three types of orthodontic treatments available to help you make an informed decision: traditional braces, Invisalign, and ceramic braces. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to choose the right treatment for a healthier, more confident smile. 

A smiling boy with braces gives a thumbs up while standing next to a dentist who is giving a thumbs up

Traditional Braces 


Traditional braces are a common orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth and correct misalignment issues. They consist of brackets, wires, and elastic bands placed on your teeth to create the necessary force for teeth movement. 

Traditional braces have been used for decades and have a proven track record of successfully correcting dental problems. They are particularly helpful in cases of severe teeth misalignment or complicated bite issues.  

Additionally, this type of orthodontic treatment is more versatile than some other treatment options, as they can address a wide range of orthodontic issues, including spacing, crowding, crossbites, and overbites. 

We recommend that you consider traditional braces if you have crooked or crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, overbite (when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth), or underbite (when the lower teeth are positioned ahead of the upper teeth). They are also suitable for correcting open bite (when the upper and lower front teeth do not touch) and crossbite (when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth). 

In these cases, traditional braces provide an effective solution to align your teeth properly, improve oral health, and enhance the overall appearance of your smile. 

A young woman smiles showing her invisalign standing below a sign that reads shine orthodontics

Invisalign 


Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to straighten your teeth. 

This type of orthodontic treatment offers a more discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. Aligners are custom-made and virtually invisible, making them an attractive choice if you wish to discreetly enhance your smile.  

Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing for more convenience and flexibility in oral hygiene practices. Unlike traditional braces, which can make brushing and flossing difficult, Invisalign allows you to easily clean your teeth, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. 

Clear aligners provide a more comfortable experience. Made from smooth plastic, they do not have any sharp edges or wires that can cause irritation or soreness. They can be easily removed for special occasions or when eating, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite foods without restrictions. 

Invisalign is perfect if you are searching for a blend of effectiveness, convenience, and aesthetics for treating your dental issues such as overcrowding, spacing, crossbite, overbite, and underbite. 

A young boy smiles showing his braces

Ceramic Braces 


Ceramic braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that are like traditional metal braces in terms of function, but they are made from a tooth-colored or clear ceramic material. These braces work by applying continuous pressure to move and align your teeth gradually. 

Ceramic braces have an aesthetic appeal as they are designed to blend in with the natural color of your teeth, making them much less noticeable compared to traditional metal braces. This is especially beneficial if you are an adult or teenager concerned about your appearance during treatment. 

This type of orthodontic treatment is known to be more comfortable than metal braces. The ceramic material is smoother and causes less irritation to your lips and gums compared to the rougher surface of metal braces. This can be a significant advantage if you are prone to experiencing discomfort or sensitivity. 

Furthermore, ceramic braces are just as effective as metal braces when it comes to correcting dental problems such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, or gaps. They offer a reliable and efficient solution, without sacrificing aesthetics or comfort. 

A young girl smiles showing her braces wearing a clinton massie shirt

Choose an Orthodontic Treatment with Shine Orthodontics 


When it comes to orthodontic treatments, we provide a range of options tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences. With our expertise and dedication to patient care, we strive to give you the smile you've always wanted. 

Our team of highly trained orthodontists will start by assessing your unique dental situation. We understand that every patient is different, which is why we offer a variety of treatments to choose from. Whether you're dealing with overcrowding, misaligned teeth, or a bite issue, we have the solution for you. 

At Shine Orthodontics, we believe that everyone should have access to excellent orthodontic care. So, don't wait any longer to achieve the smile you deserve.  

For exceptional orthodontic treatment, Shine Orthodontics is here for you! Dr. Michael Agenter and Dr. Jiabao (Ellen) Sun have years of experience in helping patients achieve better smiles, and they can help you too!   

For orthodontic results that Just Shine, reach out to Shine Orthodontics today!   

Follow Shine Orthodontics on Facebook and Instagram today for more oral health tips! Happy with the Shine Orthodontics difference? Leave us a five-star review here!