Our specialists can help you determine if stainless steel traditional metal braces are best for you. Extent of Correction. Ceramic braces are the same size and shape as metal braces, except that they have tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in to teeth. Orthodontist Ann Arbor - Embrace Orthodontics. You will see for yourself McNamara Orthodontics offers effective and affordable braces serving Saline 48176, Chelsea 48118 , Dexter 48130 , Ypsilanti 48197, and Tecumseh 49286, MI. New patients may also schedule appointments online at either Pembroke Pines or Plantation. An allergy to the nickel used in dental appliances like braces is the most common allergic reaction seen in dental practices. on the pain scale, ceramic brace treatments are considerably less painful than traditional. Fragility: Ceramic braces are more prone to chipping or breaking compared to metal braces. Ceramic Braces. We can answer further questions about ceramic-made braces and other alignment products. Braces- Metal and Ceramic: Braces are used for correcting the position of the teeth. Saline. Composite veneers cost around $400 to $2,000 per tooth and last between 5 to 7. . Here are some options that are offered: Traditional braces – These devices consist of stainless steel brackets that attach to the front of the teeth. With extensive braces treatment at the most affordable cost in Singapore, choose from our metal, ceramic or Damon (self-ligating) braces services here at Luminous Dental. You can also select between clear, white, and coloured ceramic braces. Waterpik Cordless Plus WP-450UK. All in all, metal braces are usually the more affordable option. 4. Ceramic brackets can be clear or tooth-colored. Metal braces – Traditional metal braces can treat minor imperfections to severe misalignments with. One of the most significant advantages is that they are much less. Highlights. The brackets, attached to the surface of the teeth, are strung through with archwire that is gradually tightened to pull the teeth into their optimal position. 9. Sat - 8am to 1pm. Ceramic braces are fitted similarly to metal braces; brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, and rubber bands (available in many different colors) are used to hold the archwire in. Ceramic braces match the appearance of your teeth, though they can be a bit more expensive and a bit less durable than metal braces. Overall, ceramic braces cost about $4,000 to $8,000. Sticker Price. Dental insurance companies usually cover orthodontic treatment at 50% with a lifetime (not yearly) maximum of $1,500. Clear aligners are quickly replacing traditional metal braces. As the name suggests, ceramic braces are the same as metal braces except that they’re made out of a tooth-coloured porcelain material instead of stainless steel. While crowns are quite expensive, they are an essential part of many restorative dental procedures. However, because our mouth, gums, and jawline change with age, some adults choose to wear braces to correct their bites. During your orthodontic consultation, we can discuss all of your options, carefully evaluate your smile, and guide you towards the most effective solution for your specific needs. Ceramic braces are brittle and they have more friction in them so sometimes they slow down the treatment specially if there is extraction space to be closed. These nearly invisible braces are made from strong, composite materials and are secured by an orthodontist. They shouldn't be discarded just because of the price tag. The archwires that connect the brackets are. 10 verified reviews. A small metal wire uses the ceramic material as leverage, adjusting teeth over time and creating a perfect smile that will last well into the future. Jewel tones that are brighter look best with darker skin. The approximate cost should be around 25000-40000. Meet Dr. 99. However, they can cost up to $2,300 for a bonded bridge and implant-supported bridge costs start at $5,000. Ceramic braces have become quite popular because they achieve the same results as conventional braces but are far less noticeable. Brackets are made of metal, ceramic, plastic or a combination of these. Cost: Ceramic braces cost tend to be more expensive than traditional metal braces due to their aesthetic benefits. Traditional metal braces are common among children and teens. However, the price depends on the dentist’s level of experience, the clinic’s quality, its location, and any additional fees the institution may impose. You can also send us an email at straightenuportho@gmail. With ceramic braces brushing and flossing is painstaking, messy and difficult at times. Saline Office. However, ceramic braces can be more difficult to keep clean, so patients need to be diligent about their oral hygiene. The biggest and most obvious difference is that ceramics are much less visually. When it comes to ceramic braces, you’ll want to take some additional precautions to prevent staining. Also you're getting braces either way, people will notice them and the only reason people tend to lean towards ceramic is that their less noticeable. If you need more drastic corrections, Dr. Traditional ceramic braces are a good alternative for patients who have metal allergies. The ceramics don't really stain, even with turmeric (which made my baby blue bands a mint green lol), but they are pretty bulky compared to metal (you do get used to em), and for me personally I like picking the colored bands and those look better with the metal imo. Wearing ceramic braces can make teeth straightening a positive experience. Braces were originally only given to teenagers and young adults whose mouths were still developing. Everyone from Miley Cyrus to the Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders has discovered their smile with this hidden alternative to. Ceramic braces use clear or tooth-coloured brackets to give them a more subtle appearance. 70. Say bye-bye to your bad bite with Chelsea metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign clear aligners. Ceramic brackets are biocompatible. Matthew Stout, DMD, MSD. Most of the time, there is an age cap of 18. Removable Aligners have become increasingly popular. They have good biocompatibility. Modern metal braces that most of us are familiar with were invented in France in 1819. $3,500 – $4,200. Ceramic braces cost between $3,000 and $7,000, whereas metal braces cost between $1,700 to $6,000. 2. What are braces? Braces are an orthodontic treatment consisting of brackets and wires. Damon braces are also referred to as self-ligating braces, or self-lig for short. Ceramic braces are fitted similarly to metal braces; brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, and rubber bands (available in many different colors) are used to hold the archwire in. As for the Invisalign, it is made of thermoplastic and is a mold of the teeth. 1500 N. 7E. makeO toothsi aligners do not contain any of these components and are simple clear plastic trays made. Ceramic braces can help the wearer feel more confident in their smile throughout treatment. Still, the cost is dependent on the expertise of the Dentist, the level, and the location of the clinic. Ceramic braces may be more expensive than metal braces. However, depending on the degree of the orthodontic issues being addressed, metal braces might take up to 36 months to complete their job. Common issues include overbites and underbites, protruding or crooked teeth, crossbites, and mismatched dental midlines. Furthermore, this review aims to present the. Ceramic braces, which are also called “invisible” braces as they use hardware that is clear or tooth-colored, are generally slightly more expensive at around $4,000 to. They are more expensive than metal braces. Heat water to about 170°F (76°C) for example in a kettle, on the stove top or in a microwave oven. Dairy products provide us with calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and protein. Metal braces, on the other hand, are extremely durable and stand up to stronger forces or impacts. Ceramic braces with color or without and metal braces are both placed and removed by an orthodontist. Ceramic braces use polycrystalline alumina for the formation of brackets. com. The white metal doesn’t stain. The higher cost is due to the more delicate, expensive material the brackets are made from. White braces, on the other hand, are made of ceramic, so the only metal visible is the wire between teeth. , Suite B. Many people who wear ceramic braces will brush their teeth. If your teeth, gums and bone around teeth are healthy, you can get braces at any age age for correcting your teeth. However, the Metallic braces are much thinner than traditional ones. Toggle. This procedure is used to repair chips, close down gaps or change the shape and color of a tooth. 5% and 11% of the population may have an open bite of some degree, depending on the country. Today, however, a wide range of metallic. Ceramic Clear Braces. Effectiveness. Quick Facts: Procedure time: 2 hours Results last: Permanent Side Effects: irritation Downtime: 3 to 4 days Procedure type: Non-invasive procedure Overview: Ceramic Braces in Abu Dhabi are braces that are normal & utilize the same process to teeth straightening, but rather than colors of metal, they are ceramic, white, or occasionally plastic that is durable. Dr. It can help people proactively prevent issues with gum disease. Retainers. Unlike. Disadvantages of ceramic braces: Ceramic braces are around $1000 costlier than metal braces. If you want the braces hidden and choose lingual braces, the cost can be close to $10,000. The materials used in ceramic braces are often costlier, which can increase the overall treatment cost. Additional cleaning and flossing while wearing. The use of ceramic braces is clinically proven for over 20 years. Consumption of excess caffeine and alcohol can stain the ceramic in the long run. Invisalign. The average cost of Invisalign is $3500 – $6500, while ceramic braces typically cost $3000 – $6000. You may want to try drinking sparkling water in between sips of red wine. Here are some brands of ceramic braces and their costs per arch: On average, treatment with clear braces costs $1,000 more per arch than traditional braces. Ceramic Braces. Ceramic braces have several advantages over traditional metal braces, but there are also a few things to keep in mind before making your decision. Further research notes that ceramic braces cause fewer problems, such as image distortion and signal loss, than metal braces in MRI scans. 1 DesignCome meet the team and explore your orthodontic treatment options during a free, no-obligation consultation at our practice in Silver Spring, Maryland. As the name suggests, ceramic braces are the same as metal braces except that they’re made out of a tooth-coloured porcelain material instead of stainless steel. Glenn Vallecillos, a plastic. The price depends on the number of teeth treated, the materials used and doctor’s expertise. The materials are more expensive, so the initial cost of the braces is higher. or Best Offer. check 32watts website to know the affordable teeth braces cost in India. Depending on the city, the orthodontist’s experience, and the case’s complexity, ceramic braces can cost anywhere from INR 25,000 to INR 1,00,000 in India. They all work together to move the teeth into the intended position. Product Allergens. 16733 W Airport Blvd Suite 270 Richmond TX, 77407. A major advantage of clear braces vs. To begin your journey to a new dream smile, contact our offices at: Pembroke Pines — (954) 787-3052. When comparing ceramic braces vs Invisalign, which smile solution is right for you? We explain the pros and cons of each to help you decide. About Us . Brush your teeth atleast 2 times a day: This is the most important step which lets you maintain good oral hygiene when wearing Dental Braces and also helps in preventing staining of Ceramic Braces. You may have more "emergency" appointments to get the ceramic bracket reapplied. The Cost of E Max Veneers in Dubai & Abu Dhabi starts from AED 1400. Clear brackets and bands are recommended where teeth are bright and light-colored, where color-matched ceramic. We have both metal and ceramic braces options available. 720-279-2266. For many patients, Invisalign is as effective as braces. Lakewood, CO 80214. , 2012 : In vitro: 5% HF 60/30 s, 9. This provides a more natural appearance than metal braces. There are a couple of benefits to each style of brace. However, they are made of ceramic which makes the braces less noticeable compared to metal types. Current Patients: 734-818-8108. Invisalign. With any variety of braces, it's vital to pay special attention to your dental care. If you think ceramic braces may be the best option for you, visit Rollins & Petersen Orthodontics for a consultation. Expect to pay $3,000 to $7,000 or more for either treatment. Monday - Friday Working Hours. Silver tooth caps cost from $500 to $1,500 while all-ceramic crowns cost up to $2,000 each. If it is possible to use aligners, the doctor will recommend them, as they are more comfortable to wear and less traumatic to the teeth, and also look very discreet on the teeth. This realignment is achieved with the help of wires, bands, and brackets. They are digitally mapped out using 3D scans of your teeth or dental impressions. The brackets are then accompanied by light wires that attach to the brackets with tiny rubber bands. Reply reply D1ff1cultM1ndCeramic braces are generally more comfortable than metal braces because the brackets are smaller and smoother. These ranges include dentist and orthodontic visits, but if you require oral health. Usually, the Ceramic braces cost in India are higher compared to the traditional metal braces. Are they right for you? 251-202-5463 Atmore Office Teeth Braces Costs in Dubai UAE are estimated to cost between AED 4999 and AED 14,999. Cost Of Ceramic Braces In Dubai: Millions of smiles are delivered with our best services at competitive prices at Dynamic Clinic. The prices for ceramic braces cost Singapore are transparent and can be paid by installment plans. $3,000 - $10,000. In general, you can expect to pay between $925 and $2,500 per tooth, according to the American Dental Association. These clear braces blend in with your teeth, so. Insurance may cover adult braces. Clear ceramic braces are a new variation on the traditional system that provides a far less noticeable method of treatment. Brian C. Additionally, the orthodontists who install lingual braces must complete specialized training. Traditional metal braces are the most visible type of braces. With proper care and brushing – clear ceramic braces can maintain their transparency and durability. Get Directions. Dental Orthodontic Braces Ceramic Brackets Roth 022 with 345 Hooks 20 Pcs/Box. The average cost of ceramic braces can be $4000 to $8000. Looking for Orthodontics with Braces in Dexter, MI? SBK Orthodontics offers the best Braces orthodontic services in Dexter. Their ability to match tooth colouration means they’re often not visible from a distance. • Make sure the affected area is clean by gently rinsing it with room-temperature salt water. The long-term health benefits of wearing braces, include: Greater oral health because straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. Looking for an orthodontist in Dexter, MI? SBK Orthodontics offers the best orthodontic services for all ages. Ceramic braces can be an attractive option for those looking to correct issues with crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth. Ceramic brackets are tooth colored and thus more cosmetically appealing than the metal brackets. The brackets themselves are. Comparatively, metal braces usually cost $3,000 to $6,000. However, even if the pain and swelling are gone, you have to finish your course of antibiotics as prescribed. Drink sparkling water in between. If it is possible to use aligners, the doctor will recommend them, as they are more comfortable to wear and less traumatic to the teeth, and also look very discreet on the teeth. Chapter 1: Ceramic Braces Market Product Definition, Product Types, Volume, and Revenue Analysis of Each Type in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa from. However, wires used still contain metal elements like nickel, titanium, stainless steel etc. Ceramic: The color of the material of the orthodontic mechanism can be matched to the shade of the enamel of a real tooth. Ceramic braces cost between $3,000 and $7,000, whereas metal braces cost between $1,700 to $6,000. Unlike other cosmetic dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers, dental bonding is completely reversible. Read ahead to learn more. “Clear” braces are similar to metal braces, but they use ceramic or clear plastic in place of metal wires and brackets. It’s the clear elastic bands that tie the brackets together that are susceptible to staining. 1020 E Michigan Ave Suite E, Saline, MI 48176. 3. ADVANCED Ceramic Brackets Case Overview Foreword Dr. To avoid causing harm to the device, do not exceed a 1:1. Unfortunately, that. You can get the exact cost by consulting the dentists and getting charged according to your condition. You’ll need to check the details of your specific plan or invest in a new one. Wired braces ensure long-term results. In fact, in many cases, Invisalign is faster than braces. See full list on healthline. Looking for an orthodontist in Saline, MI? SBK Orthodontics offers the best orthodontics services for Kids, Teenagers, and Adults in Saline, MI. Avoid dark foods and drinks that tend to leave stains such as tomatoes, coffee, tea, and wine. Orthodontist. Lingual braces are a type of brace attached to the back of your teeth to make them less obvious. Tarzana, California 91356. 3. The metal braces will cost you about $3000 to $6000. Ceramic braces are a little pricier than metal braces because ceramic is a more expensive material than metal. (734) 944-9059. Langley and O’Neil and their staff, have the experience and training to provide an extensive range of orthodontic services. Why Trust UsThe differences between metal and ceramic braces can be summarized by: Metal braces are typically more affordable. The cost for clear braces runs on average from $2,000 to $6,000. Removable Aligners have become increasingly popular. In the US, ceramic braces cost less than other types of orthodontic treatments, making them more affordable than sapphire or lingual orthodontic treatments. It is important to remember that the cost of braces treatment may not include consultation fees, additional dental treatments, x-rays, or other related costs. Lakewood, CO 80214. ago. This can save time and money on follow-up appointments. When we use white, clear, or tooth-coloured wires and elastic ties with the brackets, they become even more discrete. Our comprehensive treatments include: braces for children, teens and adults; clear ceramic braces, lingual braces that are placed behind the teeth, and 3M Clarity clear aligners. The complete treatment (visits, brackets, facilities and equipment, a specialized dental professional and follow-up) comes between $3,000 and $7,000 while metal braces cost between $1700. Cost: The Dental Braces Cost in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah in a metal can range from AED 4999 to AED 14999. Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, but they use clear or tooth-colored brackets rather than gray or metallic silver brackets and wires. If you want your braces to be less noticeable, ceramic or porcelain braces are a great option. Long term fix, must wear a retainer after. Lucas Orthodontics is your provider for clear, ceramic braces, Invisalign, and InBrace. However, ceramic braces have become a popular. Metal braces are a tried-and-true classic, while ceramic braces are a newer option. DIY (cheap braces) Factors that affect the pricing of braces. ago. Clear aligners have many aesthetic advantages over braces, but they can only be used in cases of mild crowding. Fortunately, ceramic braces are hard to damage and will last throughout your treatment. Monday - Friday Working Hours. The Medford Center for Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry can show you the benefits of tooth-colored, discreet ceramic braces. In general, you can expect to pay between $925 and $2,500 per tooth, according to the American Dental Association. Self-ligating braces: $2,000 to $7,000. The Verdict. 2765 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. 1020 E Michigan Ave Suite E, Saline, MI 48176. Open from Mondays to Sundays. Dairy products are an excellent choice for braces wearers because most dairy products are soft and require very little chewing. For very active people or young children, metal braces are a more sensible and practical choice. The appliance is thus personalized, which makes it more comfortable. The high-quality materials aren’t abrasive, so they won’t irritate your gums or the sides of your mouth (a common complaint for metal brace wearers). Cost: Damon braces generally cost more due to their advanced technology, between $3,800 and $8,000, whereas traditional metal braces cost between $2,500 and $7,500. Call us at 734-390-4442. Less allergenic. Cost effective: Ceramic braces are a little more expensive than metal braces, but they are still a cost-effective method of fixing crooked teeth when compared to alternatives like clear aligners, which cost more and take longer to achieve the desired effect. These esthetic brackets are. ABOUT US. Not to mention, when it comes to people choosing braces, people always want the one that looks good and remains hidden. Fortunately, ceramic braces are hard to damage and will last throughout your treatment. Clear aligners. In comparison to the metallic appearance of metal braces, ceramic braces are clear or tooth-coloured which will provide more discretion in appearance. When it comes to the drawbacks, it should be noted that the biggest one is the high expense of ceramic braces. As you can see, braces can lead to a host. Porcelain veneers are going to be more expensive than composite veneers. This makes them blend better with the surface of the tooth and are much less noticeable. Despite the fact that all appliances provide efficiency, each of them. This was the standard until about 30 years ago when ceramic braces were introduced. However, not everyone is a candidate for aligner treatment. Ceramic braces are a type of braces that include tooth-colored or clear brackets, unlike other braces that use wires and metallic brackets. On average, this costs $1,000 less than metal braces. Unfortunately, most insurance plans do not cover braces or aligners of any kind. Whitening toothpaste can help remove and prevent surface stains caused by plaque buildup around your brackets. Invisalign is also removable, which is very practical. InVu braces incorporate a unique colour-matching technology that allows them to appear as close to your real tooth colour as possible, making them virtually invisible. 1100 Pelham Pkwy S, Ste #1, Bronx, NY 10461. Jones sees patients in Little Rock and Saline County. 2765 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. This leads to a reduced risk of gingivitis, tooth decay and gum disease. Each type will have different costs to them. This is about $1,000 less, on average, than metal braces. Select from a variety of dairy products, such as low-fat milk, low-fat cheese, and low-fat yogurt. They use the same components as traditional braces —. Yoga Neti Pot Yoga Neti Pot Nasal Rinsing Nose Wash Sinus Irrigation Red Horn Cleaner. Clear aligners correct teeth alignment issues at a fraction of the cost of ceramic braces. metal is that the tooth-colored brackets blend in with your teeth. Surface treatment of VE CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic with silica coating enhanced the adhesion with ceramic and metal brackets. These braces use very small translucent brackets made of a new type of ceramic material. Clove oil, an active ingredient in many dental products, is the best at-home remedy for tooth pain, according to Huang. Welcome to /r/braces! A support group for questions and discussion on the topic of braces!. Removable aligners are transparent trays that rest on top of teeth and need. Ceramic braces range in price from $4,000 to $8,000. With these cons in mind, one can conclude that metallic braces are better than ceramic braces. Potential Discoloration: While ceramic braces are less likely to stain than earlier models, some discoloration may occur if you consume foods or drinks known to stain teeth, like coffee,. It is difficult to notice them on the teeth. McNamara Orthodontics is conveniently located in Ann Arbor, MI serving Ypsilanti, Saline, and DexterAnn Arbor, MI 48105 Current Patients: 734-818-8108 New Patients: 734-219-3523 Clear Braces Less-Noticeable Than Metal Braces At Embrace Orthodontics, we’re proud to. Dr. Comparatively, metal braces usually cost $3,000 to $6,000. 818-345-9601. Ceramic Braces. Having said that, both types of. Cost of Ceramic Braces. Invisalign Ann Arbor - Embrace Orthodontics. Figure 7: Patient wanted an alternative to aligners to address her crowding in 4 months. (734) 944-9059. The biggest hindrance to any dental treatment, however, is people’s reluctance to be seen wearing braces. Add a Comment. Ceramic fixed braces come with a range of benefits: Discreet way to straighten teeth Suitable for both teenagers and adults Can treat a wide variety of teeth. Comparatively, metal braces usually cost $3,000 to $6,000. Clear aligners need to be in place for 20-22 hours daily, can be removed while eating or drinking and when brushing teeth. 31F i have ceramic on top metal on bottom. Although the prices are not fixed the Ceramic Braces Cost in Dubai ranges from 1200 AED to 1400 AED covering the whole package. Our offices are located in Mesa, AZ, Globe, AZ, Gilbert, AZ, Chandler, AZ, and Queen Creek, AZ. The average total treatment time for ceramic braces is 18-24 months. The best way to clean your teeth with ceramic braces is to brush after every meal and floss at least once a day. You’ll also have a greater chance to lose teeth to decay or damage in this situation. Though ceramic braces are made in the same shape as traditional metal ones, their brackets are small, clear, and almost entirely invisible, especially if you use a colored arch wire. The average cost for Invisalign braces in 2022 is between $3,000-$8,000. We offer the best dental braces treatment in Dubai. Ceramic Braces: a popular choice for adults. You can use a hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse, made with a maximum 3% HP and diluted with two parts water, to ease pain and facilitate the healing of oral cuts, canker sores, sore throats, and inflamed gums. Call us at (786) 540-1919 todayWash your hands and the material with mild soap and water. This process requires the dentist to fit the braces using a metal archwire and an elastic band which holds every single tooth. Braces can feel like a huge commitment, but their many benefits make them worth it! And what’s more, there are ways to make the process more enjoyable. Their ability to match tooth colouration means they’re often not visible from a distance. g MRI scans, metal braces can cause interference with the signals and render these. Ceramic braces are subtle and do not affect your appearance as much as some other orthodontic options; What to Expect The Ceramic Braces Treatment Process. On average, ceramic braces cost around $4,000 to $8,000. Specialties: Emerson Orthodontics is the most experienced office in the Tulsa area offering hidden lingual Incognito appliance for tooth alignment, and was the pioneer of this completely hidden form of treatment in the Tulsa metro-area. On average, metal braces cost between $3,000 and $7,000, and clear ceramic braces cost a bit more – $4,000 to $8,000. Ceramic braces are often favoured by adults as they’re less noticeable than standard metal braces, with clear or tooth-coloured brackets and optional tooth-coloured wires. Just like traditional braces, brackets are affixed to the front surface of teeth and wires are threaded through slots in the brackets. Increasing demand for esthetics during fixed appliance therapy has led to a significant increase in the demand for and use of ceramic brackets. Lingual braces: $5,000 to $10,000. Clear aligners: $2,000 -$6,000. However, they also have a. The. Best. 1. When paired with a white archwire and clear brackets, their appearance is virtually invisible. The braces are less visible to others, making them a popular choice for adults who need orthodontic treatment. This means they may be less likely to react with your oral tissues. Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional metal braces, except that the brackets are made of different materials. 4. Some states provide coverage for low-income adults over 21 as well. Full Guide to Ceramic Braces. This can result in better overall oral health with less risk of gingivitis, gum disease, and tooth decay. Ceramic braces work in the same way as traditional braces, but the brackets are a clear, transparent ceramic material. To maintain the aesthetics of ceramic braces you need to maintain good oral hygiene and also make certain changes in your day to day life. The 'clear' brackets can become stained over time. Ceramic braces gradually strengthen and straighten your smile by applying constant pressure to your teeth for a year or more to slowly move them into a more aesthetic position. Give us a call today about scheduling an orthodontic. $5,000 – $13,000. We offer a variety of treatments to meet the needs and preferences of our patients. The braces usually consist of small brackets cemented to your teeth, connected by a wire and held to the brackets by rubber bands.