Did you know there are four different types of braces available in the orthodontic world today? Well, it’s true, and we are happy to help you understand the options available when it comes to straightening your smile.
Metal/Traditional Braces
Metal/traditional braces are what most people think of when they hear the word “braces.” With this appliance, the metal brackets are glued to the front surfaces of your teeth and they are connected by metal wires. Throughout time, the metal appliance will gradually shift and change your teeth into the smile you have always wanted. Modern technology has made these brackets smaller and less noticeable to help you feel more confident and comfortable throughout the treatment. It also has new heat-activated archwires that use your body heat to quickly and painlessly move your teeth.
Pros: These braces are the cheapest option in orthodontics and the colored bands give you the ability to style your braces in any way you would like.
Cons: Metal braces are the most noticeable appliance compared to all other orthodontic options.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces but instead of metal brackets and wires, the brackets and wires are tooth-colored and natural looking.
Pros: Ceramic braces are less noticeable than traditional braces and they are known to transform your smile faster than clear aligners.
Cons: These braces are more expensive and they tend to stain more easily if you do not take good care of them.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the same as traditional braces but instead of having the appliance glued to the outside of your teeth, lingual braces are glued to the inside of your teeth.
Pros: Lingual braces are invisible from the outside.
Cons: These braces are more expensive, difficult to clean, and unavailable if you have severe misalignment. They are extremely uncomfortable at first and the tightening and adjusting appointments take longer than the appointments required for traditional braces.
Invisalign®
Invisalign is a series of clear, plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and gradually move them to the desired positions. The treatment consists of 18-30 custom-made mouth guard-like trays that are removable. You will come into our office every two weeks and replace your aligner.
Pros: The aligners are virtually invisible and you can eat and drink whatever you want as you proceed through treatment.
Cons: Invisalign is only available if you have non-serious misalignment problems and it can only align teen and adult smiles—not children’s. This is also a more expensive option and the aligners can be easily misplaced and costly to replace. The Invisalign treatment could also last longer than any other orthodontic treatment.
Now, remember that not all orthodontists offer all four options, so if you are interested in knowing what your orthodontist offers at our office, call us today and talk to a member of our orthodontic team! We look forward to helping you choose the best orthodontic appliance for your smile.