With advances in dental technology, there are now many different types and styles of braces, and your orthodontist can help you find the perfect one for your orthodontic treatment needs and lifestyle. If you’re visiting a Park Avenue orthodontist for adult braces, here are some answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about braces.

How do braces work?
Braces apply continuous pressure to your teeth over a gradual period of time. This pressure slowly forces your teeth into alignment. This process allows your orthodontist to correct misalignments in your bite and smile.

What are braces made of?
The components of braces vary between the different types of braces available. Standard metal braces are made up of brackets, arch wires, and ties. Brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth, and they hold the arch wires that move your teeth into place. Ties hold the arch wires to the brackets, and are made of elastic rubber bands.

What types of braces are available?
Your orthodontist can help you choose between clear braces , such as Invisalign aligners, Damon braces, metal braces, and lingual braces. Metal braces are the standard braces described above. Invisalign aligners are made of a flexible plastic and are custom created to fit over your top and bottom teeth. These aligners are virtually invisible, and can be removed to allow you to eat and clean your teeth. Damon braces are self-ligating and don’t require elastic ties. This means that they aren’t tightened regularly by your orthodontist like traditional braces are, and the treatment time is much shorter. Lingual braces are made up of brackets and ties that are bonded to the backs of your teeth, making them invisible when you smile.

If you’re looking for an orthodontist in NYC that offers a variety of different types of braces, set up a consultation at Seligman Orthodontics. Dr. David Seligman is a top orthodontist in NYC, and he can fit you for Damon braces, metal braces, lingual braces, or Invisalign aligners. Call our office today at 646.681.8516 to set up an appointment.