Types of Braces in Philadelphia & Bensalem, PA

Dr. Harold Slutsky offers a variety of braces at our Philadelphia and Bensalem orthodontic offices. We take great pride in the quality of results our patients achieve, whether they choose traditional metal braces, clear braces, or in-house clear aligners.

Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

Traditional braces are the most cost-effective treatment option and generally give the best result. Dr. Slutsky applies sealants on the enamel of teeth before placing braces. These sealants help to prevent white marks from forming and help us achieve beautiful results.

Ideal Patient: Traditional metal braces can be used on any patient, regardless of age or treatment need.
Treatment Time: Most patients can be treated in 18 to 24 months, but this varies depending on the orthodontic problems with which a patient presents.
Adjustment Intervals: Patients typically come in for adjustments every three to eight weeks, depending on what their orthodontic problems are.

Clear Braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns. We do charge a surcharge for ceramic brackets. Please contact our office for full treatment details.

Ideal Patient: Patients who want to be more discreet about wearing braces and want a cosmetic appliance often choose ceramic braces. The often are used on older teenagers and adults who have cosmetic concerns.
Treatment Time: Most patients can be treated in 18 to 24 months, but this varies depending on the orthodontic problems with which a patient presents.
Adjustment Intervals: Patients typically come in for adjustments every three to eight weeks, depending on what their orthodontic problems are.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Not only are the aligners invisible, they are removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment, plus brushing and flossing are less of a hassle. The aligners are comfortable and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.

Dr. Slutsky utilizes 3D printing and software technology, which enables him to create in-house clear aligners from the convenience of our Philadelphia and Bensalem offices. This helps us to keep our fees significantly lower than what we would charge for commercially available aligners.

Ideal Patient: Clear aligners are great for patients who want to straighten their teeth but are concerned with cosmetics. The aligners help to straighten teeth without showing any braces or wires. Many teenagers and adults prefer this option to traditional braces. That said, some patients are not candidates for clear aligners. For example, if a patient has impacted teeth, then braces are needed to straighten the teeth. Also, if you don't think that you can consistently wear the aligners, then braces are a better option since they are glued in and work 24/7.
Treatment Time: Most cases can be treated in 18 to 24 months, but treatment time varies from patient to patient.
Adjustment Intervals: Usually with aligners, patients come in every eight to 12 weeks.

Schedule an appointment!

Dr. Slutsky offers a free consultation to new patients at our Philadelphia and Bensalem orthodontic offices. At that visit, he can evaluate your needs and suggest the best option to straighten your teeth.