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The Different Types of Dental Braces
When you think of braces, you may immediately think of the traditional metal kind. But did you know that there are different types of braces? Advances in orthodontic treatment have brought us options for patients who have unique needs or preferences. Here are some of the different types of braces available:
The Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces have always been the typical form of orthodontic treatment. Since these have always been the most common they are the ones that everyone thinks of when we talk about braces.
They are comprised of stainless steel, which makes them more comfortable than previous iterations. The use of metal brackets and archwires to straighten your teeth gives you the opportunity to customize your look by employing coloured elastics (rubber bands) to match your outfit or dress code.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a transparent type of braces which makes them very popular with adults and teens since they prefer more discreet options.
There is one thing to bear in mind about ceramic braces: they are bigger in size and more brittle than regular braces, thus they will necessitate greater attention to oral cleanliness than traditional braces. Instead of using them on lower teeth, orthodontists normally prefer to use them on the higher front teeth.
Lingual Braces
These are referred to as "invisible" braces since they are hidden below the teeth and so should not be seen when you smile. Orthodontists also make metal appliances specifically for the patient, which allows them to modify them to match the contour of a tooth even more closely.
Suitable for models, actors and actresses, athletes, professionals and musicians, they will typically be less visible to the average observer during treatment.
Self-Ligating Braces
You may have either transparent, ceramic or metal brackets with this type of braces. The elastics in these braces have been replaced with a specific clip that assists the archwire in moving the teeth into place, despite their similar size to metal braces.
Because elastics don't usually have to be replaced, the clip necessitates fewer modifications and decreases the amount of pressure put on each tooth.
Clear Aligners
This series of transparent, soft, and virtually undetectable acrylic trays straighten your teeth in the same way as braces do. They are, however, detachable, so you should be able to eat and drink whatever you like while you are receiving treatment as long as you clean your teeth and the clear aligners afterward.
The ability to remove your aligners makes brushing and flossing much easier. Because the aligners are made of plastic rather than metal, there is virtually no chance of having abrasions in your mouth from the wires used during treatment.
We will be pleased to discuss which sort of braces will work best for you and your requirements, no matter what your style or requirements are. Reach out to us for more information.