3M self-ligating braces are available in two styles – metal and clear ceramic. Greg’s clear braces are made from a special ceramic material that blends in with his teeth to make his braces less noticeable. They’re called “self-ligating” because they don’t need rubber bands to hold the wire in place. Instead, they use a unique clip that is made from temperature-sensitive Nitinol material, available only from 3M.
Metal braces are the most common braces used. They work quickly and are strong, but do require ties and rubber bands to hold the wires in place. Today’s metal braces also sit flatter against the surface of the teeth, so they’re more comfortable than they used to be.
Some people prefer traditional ceramic braces over metal ones because they blend in more with the natural color of their teeth. Like metal braces, they require ties and rubber bands to hold the wires in place. 3M ceramic braces work just as quickly as metal braces.
These braces are placed behind your teeth on the tongue-side, so that no one can see them. They’re created using advanced technology and are customized to the shape of your teeth.
