Traditional Braces
Traditional metal-wired braces are made from stainless steel, and sometimes in combination with titanium. They are the most widely used and commonly used in treating children and adults. An advantage is that one can eat and drink while wearing braces. They consist of small brackets that are bonded to the front of each tooth and the molars are often cemented with a band that encircles the tooth.
Tooth Colored / Ceramic Braces
Tooth colored braces are available for cosmetic reasons. These are generally made of composite materials and are highly aesthetic as they blend with the natural tooth color. They usually do not stain, but the ligature wires used can stain if you eat a lot of curry, coffee, or smoke cigarettes. They are strong enough to withstand the forces put upon them to bring about the desired tooth movements without fracture.