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What’s the Difference Between Metal Braces and LightForce Braces?

By August 14, 2024January 22nd, 2025Braces in Vaughan, LightForce Braces In Vaughan

When considering orthodontic treatment, one of the key decisions you’ll make is the type of braces that best suit your needs. At Walt Orthodontics, we exclusively offer LightForce braces over the traditional metal braces. But what are the differences between these two types of braces, and why do we prefer and recommend LightForce braces?

Metal Braces: A Tried and True Classic

Traditional metal braces have been around since the 1800s and still remain a popular choice for orthodontic treatment despite little to no advancement in technology. Here’s why:

  • Durability and Strength: Metal braces are made from high-grade stainless steel, making them strong and durable to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild crowding to complex bite problems.
  • Cost-Effective: One of the main advantages of metal braces is their affordability. Compared to other orthodontic treatments, traditional metal braces tend to be more budget-friendly, making them a popular choice for orthodontists who are looking to save some money.
  • Reliable Results: With their long history of use, metal braces are a proven method to achieve straighter teeth and correct misalignment.

However, metal braces are not without their drawbacks. They are often considered less aesthetically pleasing and can be bulky. The biggest downfall, in my opinion, is the one-size-fits-all approach that does not provide the most personalized treatment, and patients typically experience longer treatment times with more adjustment visits. Since the bracket is not custom, the orthodontist is required to do many repositions and wire bending in order to get a tooth into its approximate final position. It’s almost never 100% perfect.

Self-ligating brackets are also the same. They are not custom. The only difference is there is a door that secures the wire into the bracket base as opposed to an elastic ligature.

LightForce Braces: The New Standard

In contrast, LightForce braces represent a cutting-edge option for those seeking more customized and modern orthodontic care. They offer several benefits that make them stand out:

  • 3D-Printed for Personalization: Each LightForce bracket is 3D-printed to fit the unique shape of each tooth. This level of customization ensures that the treatment is tailored specifically to your needs, providing a more precise fit and more efficient tooth movement.
  • Aesthetic Ceramic Material: LightForce braces are made from ceramic material, making them less noticeable compared to metal braces. This makes them a great option for patients who want effective treatment without the obvious appearance of metal brackets.
  • Digitally Designed Treatment Plans: LightForce braces leverage the power of digital design, allowing for more accurate planning of your orthodontic treatment. This digital precision often leads to faster treatment times—up to 40% shorter, according to some studies.
  • Fewer Office Visits: With the accuracy of digital planning and personalized brackets, patients may require up to 40% fewer adjustment appointments, saving time and reducing the overall duration of treatment.

In summary, because the orthodontic treatment can be planned out on a computer and each tooth position is designed with the sophistication of special software, we are able to get the teeth closer to their ideal position in a more efficient method.

Conclusion

At Walt Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on offering the most advanced orthodontic treatments available. Our commitment to technology and patient experience has led us to recommend LightForce braces for any patient interested in braces. Although it is a superior product to metal braces, we do not up-charge for it as we want our patients to have access to the best braces available. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, goals, and budget.

Curious to learn more about LightForce braces or want to discuss your orthodontic treatment options? Schedule a consultation today to get started on your journey to a healthier, straighter smile.

dont-settle-with-basic-braces

LendCare

When it comes to financing there’s no one size fits all solution. Likewise, there is no singular solution when it comes to financing. At LendCare, we get that and go deeper to understand your unique story and offer flexible options that work best for you, given your current financial situation. That means you get affordable financing, even if your credit is anything but top-tier.

Walt Orthodontics is pleased to offer interest-free payments up to 30 months. If you require payments over 30 months we are happy to offer the LendCare solution.

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DR. WALT’S DECISION TO BECOME AN ORTHODONTIST WAS INSPIRED BY HIS OWN DIRECT PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.

Dr. Walt received his dental (DDS) degree from the University of Western Ontario, graduating first in his class and receiving the Gold Medal as well as numerous awards recognizing his scholastic and clinical achievements, leadership and character. He then completed his orthodontic training at the University of Colorado, where he received both his Specialty Certificate and Master of Science Degree. During his residency, he was awarded the Rocky Mountain Orthodontics Scholarship for overall excellence.

After graduating from residency and opening Walt Orthodontics in 2013, Dr. Walt committed himself to applying his traditional orthodontic education into the digital world to improve clinical outcomes and patient experience. He currently serves as a Faculty Member, Key Opinion Leader, and Advisory Board Member for Align Technology which involves traveling around the world to teach other orthodontists about Invisalign. Being at the forefront of digital orthodontics, Dr. Walt was invited to be the first orthodontist in Canada to use custom LightForce braces. He also serves as an Orthodontic Coach/Mentor for other orthodontists looking to improve their knowledge of digital orthodontics.

In addition to practicing orthodontics, Dr. Walt is a “die-hard” Blue Jays fan and enjoys working out in his spare time.

DR. GROSSMAN STRIVES TO PROVIDE THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR HER PATIENTS.

Dr. Stephanie Grossman pursued her dental degree in sunny South Florida at Nova Southeastern University. She graduated with honours, at the top of her class, and was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honour Society. She then completed her orthodontic training at the University of Detroit Mercy, where she received both a Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science degree. She is both a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada.

Dr. Grossman strives to provide the highest standard of orthodontic care for her patients. She attends numerous hours of continuing education and utilizes the latest advancements in orthodontics. Dr. Grossman is licensed to practice in both the United States and Canada.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Grossman enjoys spending time with her friends and family and traveling the world. She is a self-proclaimed foodie and loves trying new restaurants!