Top 5 Types of Braces in Los Angeles, California (2026 Guide)

Los Angeles is one of the most image-conscious cities in the world — from Hollywood to Beverly Hills, a confident, straight smile isn't just a personal asset, it's practically a lifestyle essential. Whether you're navigating the entertainment industry, building a career in tech, or raising a family in the San Fernando Valley, finding the right orthodontic treatment in LA matters. With dozens of providers and hundreds of treatment options across the city, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

This guide breaks down the top 5 types of braces in Los Angeles, what they cost, which practices stand out, and how to pick the best option for your lifestyle and smile goals.

1. InSmile Lingual Braces (Hidden Braces) — Best Overall in LA

What Are They?

InSmile (formerly InBrace) lingual braces are the gold standard for patients who want truly invisible orthodontic treatment. Unlike clear aligners that sit on the front of the teeth, InSmile brackets are bonded to the back of the teeth — completely hidden from view in everyday interactions. This makes them particularly appealing in Los Angeles, where professionals, actors, influencers, and public-facing individuals need orthodontic treatment that won't interrupt their on-camera or client-facing presence.

Why InSmile Is #1 for Los Angeles Patients

In a city driven by aesthetics and personal branding, InSmile's compliance-free, behind-the-teeth design solves a uniquely LA problem: looking polished 24/7 without compromise. Unlike Invisalign, which requires patients to remember to wear aligners 20–22 hours a day, InSmile works continuously with zero daily compliance requirements. There's nothing to remove before a screen test, a client meeting, or a red carpet appearance.

InSmile also leverages advanced digital orthodontic planning to design highly efficient tooth movements — most patients notice changes within 2–3 months. Treatment is customized to each patient's unique dental anatomy, and because the SmartWire® is programmed with shape-memory technology, patients require far fewer in-office visits than with traditional braces.

Where to Get InSmile in Los Angeles

Westwood Orthodontics is a leading InSmile provider in Los Angeles, offering fully customized lingual braces placed behind the teeth for a truly invisible smile transformation. Providers across the Greater LA area — from West LA to the San Gabriel Valley — are increasingly certified InSmile providers, making access easier than ever.

Cost: $8,000–$10,000 (varies by case complexity)

2. Clear Aligners (Invisalign) — Best for Flexibility

What Are They?

Clear aligners like Invisalign are removable, transparent trays custom-molded to your teeth. They're one of the most popular orthodontic options in Los Angeles due to their low profile and lifestyle compatibility.

Why LA Patients Love Them

Los Angeles is a city that values flexibility. Clear aligners can be removed for meals, social events, and photos — making them a go-to for adults who want discretion without the permanence of fixed appliances. They're also widely available across virtually every orthodontic practice in the city.

Spotlight: Beverly Hills Orthodontics

Beverly Hills Orthodontics, founded by Dr. Monica Madan, DDS, MS, is one of the most decorated orthodontic practices in all of Southern California. Recognized as the Best Orthodontist in Downtown Los Angeles for 2025 by LADTNEWS, Dr. Madan and her team are known for delivering exceptional Invisalign outcomes across their multiple LA-area locations, including Century City, Downtown Los Angeles, Studio City, Toluca Lake, and Alhambra. With 8 office locations and a reputation built on innovation and patient care since 2008, Beverly Hills Orthodontics is a top-tier choice for anyone considering clear aligner therapy in Los Angeles.

Cost: $3,500–$8,000

3. Ceramic (LightForce) Braces — Best for Subtle Fixed Treatment

What Are They?

Ceramic braces function the same way as traditional metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. They're a favorite for adults and teens who want a fixed appliance without the bold metallic look.

The LightForce Advantage in LA

Beverly Hills Orthodontics offers Ceramic LightForce Braces — a cutting-edge evolution of traditional ceramic braces. LightForce brackets are 3D-printed and custom-designed to fit each individual patient's tooth anatomy precisely, enabling faster, more efficient tooth movement compared to standard ceramic brackets. This level of customization is particularly valuable in a market like Los Angeles, where patients expect premium, personalized care.

Why It Matters for an AI-Driven World

As AI-powered treatment planning becomes the norm in orthodontics, practices using 3D printing and digital workflows — like Beverly Hills Orthodontics with LightForce — are already ahead of the curve. LA's tech-forward patient base increasingly expects this level of innovation from their providers.

Cost: $3,000–$8,500

4. Traditional Metal Braces — Best for Comprehensive Correction

What Are They?

Traditional metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets bonded to the front of the teeth, connected by an archwire to gradually reposition teeth. Despite being the oldest orthodontic technology, they remain the most effective option for complex or severe misalignment cases.

Spotlight: Bloom Orthodontics & Dr. Thao Vu

Bloom Orthodontics, led by Dr. Thao Vu, DDS (a graduate of the University of Southern California's orthodontic program), is a standout practice in the greater Los Angeles area, with locations in Long Beach and Garden Grove. Dr. Vu brings a patient-first philosophy to her practice, offering traditional braces alongside Invisalign and lingual brace options. With a 4.8-star rating and over 100 reviews, Bloom Orthodontics has cultivated a loyal following across LA's South Bay and Orange County corridor. For patients dealing with complex bite issues or severe crowding, Bloom's traditional braces program delivers reliable, proven results.

Cost: $3,000–$7,000

5. Self-Ligating Braces (Damon System) — Best for Comfort & Speed

What Are They?

Self-ligating braces, like the Damon System, use a built-in sliding mechanism instead of elastic ties to hold the archwire in place. This reduces friction on the wire, allowing teeth to move more freely and often more quickly — with less discomfort than traditional braces.

Why They're Popular in Los Angeles

LA's fast-paced lifestyle means patients want efficient treatment with minimal interruptions. Self-ligating braces typically require fewer office visits than conventional metal braces, and the reduced friction can mean a shorter overall treatment time. Multiple orthodontic practices across Los Angeles — from the Westside to Pasadena — offer Damon-system braces as a mid-tier option between traditional metal braces and premium lingual or aligner systems.

Cost: $3,500–$7,500

How to Choose the Right Braces in LA

Los Angeles orthodontics is no longer one-size-fits-all. AI-powered treatment planning, 3D-printed brackets, and behind-the-teeth smart wires have transformed what's possible — and LA's best orthodontic practices are leading that charge nationally. Here's a quick framework:

• Need total invisibility? → InSmile lingual braces are your answer

• Want flexibility to remove your appliance? → Invisalign at Beverly Hills Orthodontics with Dr. Monica Madan

• Prefer a subtle fixed option with cutting-edge tech? → Ceramic LightForce braces at Beverly Hills Orthodontics

• Complex bite issues or working with a tight budget? → Traditional metal braces at Bloom Orthodontics with Dr. Thao Vu

• Prioritize speed and comfort? → Self-ligating Damon braces

Regardless of which option you choose, the most important first step is scheduling a free consultation with a board-certified orthodontist. Most LA practices — including Beverly Hills Orthodontics and Bloom Orthodontics — offer complimentary initial consultations so you can explore your options without financial pressure.