Types of Braces Advanced Orthodontics Bellevue, WA

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Types of Braces in Bellevue, WA

Reviewed by Dr. Barton Soper, Orthodontist

The main types of braces are traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and lingual braces that hide behind your teeth. Clear aligners like Invisalign® are a removable alternative. At Advanced Orthodontics Bellevue, Dr. Barton Soper helps you choose the option that fits your smile and your life.

Braces are one of the most reliable ways to straighten teeth and correct a bite, and today you have more choices than ever. Whether you picture classic metal braces or a more discreet option, there is a type of braces in Bellevue that fits your goals, your budget, and your daily routine. At Advanced Orthodontics Bellevue, we have helped kids, teens, and adults across the Bel-Red corridor and greater Eastside achieve healthy, confident smiles. Dr. Barton Soper takes time to explain each option in plain language so you can make a choice you feel good about. It all starts with a free consultation.

What Are the Different Types of Braces?

There are four common types of braces, plus clear aligners as a removable alternative.

Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most familiar option, and they have come a long way. Today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable than the ones you may remember. Metal braces work for almost any case, from simple to complex, and they are often the most affordable choice. Kids and teens love that they can add colored bands to make them their own.

Clear Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work just like metal braces, but the brackets are tooth-colored so they blend in. They are a popular pick for adults and image-conscious teens who want a lower-profile look while still getting the strength of fixed braces.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces use a small built-in clip instead of elastic ties to hold the wire. That can mean fewer adjustments, easier cleaning, and shorter appointments. They are a comfortable option for patients who want a low-maintenance experience.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are placed on the back side of your teeth, so they are hidden from view. They are the most discreet fixed option. Learn more on our lingual and invisible braces page.

If you would rather skip brackets altogether, removable clear aligners may be a fit. See our Invisalign and clear aligners pages to compare.

Benefits of Braces at Advanced Orthodontics Bellevue

  • Modern, comfortable brackets. We use today’s smaller, smoother hardware to keep your treatment comfortable.
  • Advanced planning technology. Digital scanning and 3D planning help us move your teeth efficiently. For accelerated, computer-guided wires, ask about SureSmile®.
  • An airway-aware orthodontist. Dr. Soper looks at how your bite affects your breathing and sleep, not just how your teeth line up. See our airway orthodontics page.
  • Care for every age. We treat children, teens, and adults under one roof, with the right approach for each stage of life.

Which Type of Braces Is Right for You?

The best type of braces depends on your age, your lifestyle, the complexity of your case, and your budget.

  • Children may benefit from early guidance. Visit our early treatment page.
  • Teens often choose metal or ceramic braces and do great with them. See our adolescent treatment page.
  • Adults frequently prefer ceramic or lingual braces for a subtle look. See our adult treatment page.

At your consultation, Dr. Soper will examine your teeth and bite, talk through your priorities, and recommend the option that will give you the best result.

What to Expect with Braces

We make the process clear from day one.

  1. Consultation. We examine your smile, take digital images, and review your options at no cost.
  2. Placement. Putting on your braces is quick and comfortable for most patients, and usually takes about an hour. You will leave with instructions and a plan.
  3. Adjustments. You visit us every six to eight weeks so we can adjust your wires and track your progress.
  4. Daily care. Brushing and flossing matter more than ever during treatment. Our caring for braces page walks you through it.
  5. Retainers. Once your braces come off, a retainer protects your new smile. See our retainers page.

Cost and Insurance for Braces in Bellevue

The cost of braces depends on the type you choose and how much work your smile needs. Metal braces are often the most budget-friendly, while ceramic and lingual braces cost a bit more for their cosmetic benefits. Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic coverage, and we offer flexible monthly payment plans so treatment fits your budget.

You will receive a clear, written estimate at your consultation. For more detail, visit our financing and insurance pages.

Schedule Your Braces Consultation in Bellevue

Wherever you are starting from, we can help you get to a straighter, healthier smile. Advanced Orthodontics Bellevue is located on NE Bel-Red Road, minutes from Crossroads and Overlake with easy access from WA-520 and I-405. Call (425) 747-9494 or request your free consultation online. We welcome families from Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, and Mercer Island.

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces remain the most popular and effective choice for orthodontic treatment. Made from high-quality metal alloys, these braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever. You can personalize your smile by choosing colorful elastics (rubber bands) for added fun. For patients looking for affordable braces, this is often the go-to option.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a more discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. They work just as effectively and are a popular choice among teens and adults who want a less noticeable treatment.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

Invisalig offer a clear, removable option for straightening teeth without the need for traditional braces. These comfortable aligners are virtually invisible and allow you to eat, drink, brush, and floss without restrictions. Since they are removable, Invisalign makes your treatment experience more flexible and convenient.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces provide an invisible alternative for those who wish to straighten their teeth discreetly. Placed behind the teeth, lingual braces are virtually undetectable. Customized to fit your unique dental situation, lingual braces offer effective tooth movement while maintaining excellent aesthetics.
 

FAQ

Most patients wear braces somewhere between 12 and 30 months, with about 22 months being typical. Your exact timeline depends on how much your teeth and bite need to change. Dr. Soper will give you a realistic estimate at your first visit.

You may feel mild soreness for a few days after your braces are placed and after each adjustment. It is usually well controlled with over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods, and it fades quickly as your mouth adjusts.

Yes. Skip hard, sticky, and chewy foods like caramel, popcorn, and ice, which can damage your brackets and wires. Most patients adjust their habits easily, and we send you home with a simple food guide.

Adults can absolutely get braces, and more are choosing treatment every year. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Ceramic and lingual braces are popular adult choices because they are subtle.

Brush after every meal, floss daily with a floss threader or water flosser, and keep your regular dental cleanings. Good habits prevent white spots and keep your gums healthy throughout treatment.

 
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