For many years, the word orthodontist was synonymous with awkward head gear and mouths filled with brightly colored bands and shiny metal. Recent advancements in orthodontics has all but eliminated the need for metallic contraptions and noticeable equipment, allowing patients to achieve a perfect smile without drawing unwanted attention to themselves. A straight, bright smile breeds success and self confidence, and that begins with the first visit to the orthodontist's office. Below are descriptions of some of the latest treatment options for patients who want to look their best.

Braces have long been associated with shimmering metal and years of treatment. Cosmetic braces allow patients to achieve the same results as traditional braces, but without all the metal and in less time. Cosmetic braces give the patient the choice of clear or tooth-colored brackets, instead of metal, and pair them with clear bands to attach the super-thin wire. In addition to looking good, this new technology has requires less visits to the orthodontist's office and works faster than traditional braces. With the use of cosmetic braces, patients don't have to wait until their braces are removed before showing off their beautiful smile.

An alternative to braces altogether and a popular choice among adults are invisible aligners. After taking an impression of the patients mouth, the orthodontist creates clear upper and lower aligners that can be worn over the teeth in just about any situation. With invisible aligners, patients can straighten their teeth at home, work, or school without anyone having a clue they are receiving treatment. As an added benefit, invisible aligners can be removed at the patient's discretion, and new aligners are made about every two weeks, to ensure invisibility and effectiveness.

Retainers of the past were just as noticeable as braces, providing no aesthetic relief for orthodontics patients. Old ones were uncomfortable and ugly, many patients did not wear them and their teeth began to shift and overcrowding occurred. Today, almost invisible ones allow patients to comfortably wear their retainers day and night without pain or becoming self-conscious about their appearance. Employing technology similar to the invisible system, almost invisible retainers give patients confidence as they keep smiles looking healthy.

Some patients require extra bone support from the use of an implant to get their teeth properly aligned. Mini-implants used by orthodontists today are smaller than ever. They are often less than two millimeters in diameter, which make them less noticeable and a more comfortable treatment option. When they are no longer needed, the mini-implants can be easily removed without causing much discomfort to the patient.

Some smiles take a little work to make them perfect, but that hasn't stopped stars like Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani, or even Dakota Fanning from seeking treatment. Many celebrities and beauty queens, like Miss Kentucky USA 2009, Maria Montgomery, have turned to the help of a trusted orthodontist and modern treatments to achieve the feeling of success and heighten self-esteem that comes with a proud smile.