There are a couple of different types of invisible braces – which are typically designed for adults or older children who may want to straighten their teeth without the obvious look of traditional braces. Invisible braces are typically not used when baby teeth are still present in the mouth. There are generally three types of invisible braces: ceramic brackets, inside braces, and clear aligners.
Ceramic braces work the same way as traditional braces, but they use brackets made out of a material the same colour as the tooth rather than metal to camouflage the look of the braces. While ceramic braces stand out less than traditional braces, many people do find that they are not as invisible as they would prefer.
Inside braces, which are sometimes also called lingual braces or “iBraces” are placed behind the teeth rather than in front, so provide a great cosmetic alternative for those who do not want the look of traditional metal braces. Similar to traditional braces, lingual braces work by applying gentle yet continuous pressure on the teeth to encourage them to slowly shift into position.
Inside braces do have some special requirements, as they are a bit more involved than regular braces in Vancouver. One of the biggest prohibitive factors with lingual braces is that they tend to be quite a bit more costly, and they require strong technical expertise from the orthodontist.
Lastly, clear aligners are another type of invisible brace that are custom-made for each individual. The aligners are almost entirely invisible and fit snuggly over the teeth – they are engineered to provide just the right amount of pressure to push the teeth into place. Aligners require determined cooperation to ensure they work properly, as the patient must adamantly wear the correct liners week after week, and they must be removed and cleaned between meals, and special events.
Though there are a few different types of invisible braces, they each work in their own way and they may or may not be best for your mouth. If you are thinking of getting invisible braces, talk to your orthodontist to evaluate what type would be best for you.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
