Changing Lives One Smile At A Time

Types of Braces

Modern orthodontic treatment offers more options than ever before for improving smile alignment and bite function. At Albright & Thiry Orthodontics, Dr. Richard Albright Jr., Dr. Kristin Albright Thiry, Dr. Richard Albright III, and Dr. Amrita Bhan provide personalized treatment recommendations based on each patient’s orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and smile goals.

Whether you are considering traditional braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign clear aligners, our team will help determine the treatment option that best fits your needs.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces used today. They are smaller and more comfortable than ever before and constructed of high-grade space age metal alloys. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

Ceramic 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 teenage and adult patients who have aesthetic concerns. While they are visually less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Clear appliances, such as Invisalign, use a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth. No one can tell you are wearing those aligners because they are invisible! Invisalign aligners are removable so you are not limited in what you can eat and drink during treatment. Plus... brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.

How Do I Choose the Right Orthodontic Treatment?

The best orthodontic treatment option depends on several factors, including:

  • Orthodontic concerns being corrected
  • Smile goals and aesthetic preferences
  • Lifestyle and daily activities
  • Age and treatment complexity
  • Personal comfort and maintenance preferences

During your consultation, our orthodontists will evaluate your smile and discuss the advantages of each treatment option to help determine the best solution for your needs.

Are Braces or Invisalign Better for Certain Orthodontic Problems?

Both braces and Invisalign can effectively treat many orthodontic concerns, including crowding, spacing, and bite alignment issues.

Some more complex orthodontic cases may respond better to braces, while other patients may benefit from the convenience and appearance of clear aligners. Treatment recommendations vary based on each patient’s specific orthodontic needs.

What Can I Expect During Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment involves regular progress visits to monitor tooth movement and make necessary adjustments throughout care.

Patients may experience mild soreness or pressure at certain stages of treatment, especially after adjustments or when switching to new aligners. Most discomfort improves within several days.

Our team works closely with patients throughout treatment to help ensure a comfortable and successful orthodontic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right orthodontic treatment option is an important decision. Below are answers to some common questions about braces and Invisalign treatment.

Metal braces use durable stainless steel brackets, while ceramic braces use tooth-colored materials designed to appear less noticeable during treatment.

Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing patients to continue eating many of the foods they normally enjoy during treatment, while braces require avoiding certain hard or sticky foods.

Both braces and Invisalign can effectively treat many alignment and bite concerns, although some complex orthodontic cases may respond better to traditional braces.

Yes. Many adult patients choose ceramic braces or Invisalign because they provide more discreet orthodontic treatment options.

Patients throughout Lancaster, Manheim, Elizabethtown, Willow Street, and Quarryville choose treatment options based on their orthodontic needs, lifestyle preferences, and smile goals discussed during their consultation.