Braces or clear aligners? Hidden wires or ceramic brackets? If you’ve ever tried to compare orthodontic treatments while scrolling through options during halftime at a Spurs game, you know it can be overwhelming. That’s why Dr. Vo and the team at Texas Family Orthodontics take the guesswork out of the process, helping San Antonio families choose treatments that actually make sense for real life. Let’s walk through what’s available, what sets them apart, and how to find the one that clicks.
Metal Braces (with a Modern Upgrade)
Metal braces at Texas Family Orthodontics use high-grade stainless steel brackets that are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than ever! These aren’t the bulky braces you remember from middle school. In fact, patients can even choose between silver or golden brackets for a personalized touch, and switch up their elastic colors at each visit for a bit of fun.
Why Metal Braces Might Be Your Best Bet:
- Built to Handle Anything – From crowding and spacing to complex bite issues, metal braces can tackle even the most challenging cases.
- Steady Progress – Because they’re always working, you don’t have to think twice. Just make sure to show up for your check-ins.
- Faster Results – With options like Propel Accelerated Treatment, your teeth can shift up to 50% faster, especially helpful for growing teens and young adults.
- Budget-Friendly – Typically one of the most cost-effective choices, metal braces offer strong results without the higher price tag of newer systems.
With proven success across thousands of smiles, metal braces remain the most popular choice in our San Antonio and Windcrest offices. But what if you want to go a bit more incognito? Let’s look at the clear version of braces next.
Clear Braces That Blend Right In
If you like the structure and power of metal braces but prefer something a little more under the radar, clear braces might be your match. Also known as ceramic braces, these are made from tooth-colored polycrystalline ceramic that blends beautifully with your natural smile. Patients in San Antonio who want a more discreet look (without sacrificing effectiveness) often choose this option.
Here’s Why Clear Braces Might Be a Great Fit:
- Low-Visibility Design – The brackets are polished to be ultra-clear and smooth, making them barely noticeable in person and in photos.
- All the Strength, Less of the Shine – Clear braces function just like metal ones, with the same power to fix spacing, crowding, and bite issues.
- Stain-Resistant – Our ceramic brackets are built to resist staining, helping your smile stay clean throughout treatment.
- Comfort Meets Confidence – Many patients say they forget they’re even wearing them!
And if you’re hoping to finish treatment on the quicker side, Dr. Vo can pair your clear braces with Propel technology to help teeth move faster and in fewer visits. Want something even more behind-the-scenes? Up next: a treatment option that works in secret.
InBrace: The Behind-the-Scenes Braces
InBrace is a smart, behind-the-teeth solution that straightens your smile without visible wires, trays, or frequent tightening. It’s powered by a personalized Smartwire programmed by Dr. Vo and designed to work on autopilot.
How does it work?
Using a digital scan (your Toothprint™), Dr. Vo customizes a Smartwire to gently move your teeth based on your individual needs. Once it’s secured behind your teeth, the InBrace system goes to work (with no daily maintenance from you).
Is it really invisible?
Yes! Since everything is placed on the tongue side of your teeth, no one will see a thing. You can keep sipping your coffee at Commonwealth Coffeehouse or biting into a burger at Tycoon Flats (just make sure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces!)
Who is it best for?
InBrace is ideal for adults and teens who want effective results without the routine of aligners or the visibility of traditional braces.
Can I still brush and floss like normal?
Absolutely. Since there are no trays to remove or wires in the way, brushing and flossing are simple.
Ready for freedom without the reminders? Let’s wrap up with the most flexible option of all.
Clear Aligners (No Wires. No Worries!)
Let’s say you’re meeting friends at The Cove for fish tacos, heading to class at UTSA, or sneaking in a quick espresso from Indy Coffee Co. With clear Angel Aligners, you don’t have to adjust your day. You just pop them out, enjoy your moment, then pop them back in!
That’s the appeal of clear aligner treatment at Texas Family Orthodontics. These lightweight, transparent trays are custom-fit by Dr. Vo to gradually move your teeth while keeping your daily routine intact. No metal, no wires, no “What’s that on your teeth?” moments.
A few things to know:
- You’ll wear them for about 22 hours a day.
- They’re changed out every 1–2 weeks, with each set nudging your teeth closer to their new position.
- Thanks to Grin Remote Monitoring, check-ins with Dr. Vo can happen virtually—no need to pause your life for a visit unless something really needs attention.
Clear aligners are great for responsible teens and adults who want low-maintenance treatment with maximum freedom. And when it comes to life in San Antonio, that flexibility matters. Up next: a quick side-by-side to help you compare all your options in one place.
Choosing What Works Best for You
With so many great options, the best treatment is the one that fits your lifestyle, goals, and comfort level. Maybe you’re all about a hands-off approach, or perhaps flexibility matters most to your day-to-day. Dr. Vo and the team at Texas Family Orthodontics are here to walk you through every choice, answer every question, and make sure you feel confident before anything begins. We take time to understand what matters to you. No pressure, no rush. Just honest guidance from a team that’s got your back!
Once you’ve had a chance to explore your options, we’re ready when you are.
San Antonio Smiles Made Easy!
No one knows your lifestyle better than you, and no one knows orthodontics in San Antonio and Windcrest quite like Dr. Vo! From downtown commutes to weekend stops at Pearl, your treatment should keep up with your life, not slow it down. At Texas Family Orthodontics, we blend modern options with expert advice and a judgment-free vibe to make your smile goals simple. Book your free consultation and let’s build a smile you’ll love showing off.