Managing Your Orthodontic Condition: 5 Types of Braces You Can Choose From

Braces

Orthodontic treatments keep developing and improving and today there are tons of various options to consider. Selecting the correct type of braces for your orthodontic needs is a bit overwhelming yet learning about different options will make this process easier. From a wide selection of braces that you can select, some are of a higher quality and are more appropriate for a variety of orthodontic conditions. Read on to find out 5 most common and widely-used types of braces and the ways they are usually used:

1. Ceramic Braces

Once a popular and quality alternative to cheaper braces, ceramic braces remain among the most commonly used braces in a variety of orthodontic conditions. Ceramic brackets have the same texture and are the same color as teeth, which is why it’s extremely hard to notice that you’re wearing the ceramic brackets on your teeth. The majority of orthodontists tend to use wires, which are also the same color as your teeth. That’s why other people would have difficulty seeing your ceramic braces. Unlike metal braces that are easy to notice, ceramic braces are still in high demand. There’s one drawback, though.

Ceramic braces aren’t affordable and are much more expensive than other types of braces. However, ceramic braces are faster to make and far less noticeable than other braces. Just like your natural teeth, ceramic brackets might stain if you’re not careful with colorful foods and drinks. It’s important to clean them regularly. When it comes to the comfort level, ceramic braces might cause discomfort just like other cheaper braces do.

2. Metal Braces

Metal braces, also known as “traditional braces,” consist of two main components, such as the metal brackets and the bendable metal wire. The metal brackets are attached to the teeth while the bendable metal wire is threaded through the metal brackets, placing pressure on the teeth and eventually move them. Metal braces are widely used among teens and college students, as they’re cheaper than other types of braces. Plus, metal braces are usually the quickest way to move the teeth into the needed position.

A decade ago, the metal brackets and metal wires were bulky and totally noticeable, which is why they got a bad reputation. After all, who wants to smile with bulky metal pieces on their teeth? Luckily, modern metal braces are a lot more compact, comfortable, and therefore, less noticeable than the old-fashioned braces. Thanks to new technology, the metal wires help to move the teeth quicker and don’t cause discomfort. A lot of teens opt for metal braces since they love an opportunity to select the rubber band’s color around the brackets so that they could personalize their metal braces whatever they like.

3. Invisalign

The most effective treatment of invisible aligner braces, Invisalign is becoming more and more popular these days. Despite the fact that Invisalign isn’t for everyone, these braces have a lot of perks. First of all, they offer the ability to fully eliminate the treatment to clean the aligners and the teeth, unlike other braces. They are hard to be seen and some are fully invisible, so once you’re used to wearing these braces, they won’t cause discomfort any more unlike metal braces.

When it comes to the prices, be ready to splurge on Invisalign, as it’s pricey and the treatment might not be suitable for severe orthodontic issues and conditions. Invisalign is a wonderful choice for people who are looking for a more flexible yet efficient treatment for most standard alignment problems.

4. Self-ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional ceramic and metal braces and make use of the wire system and bracket. This is considered to be the most used type of braces these days. Self-ligating braces use quality brackets with doors or clips that hold on to the wire rather than the rubber band tie system. Self-ligating braces are believed to be less painful and hold on to less food than metal braces. Patients with self-ligating braces visit the orthodontist less often and rarely need any additional treatment.

Self-ligating braces can be found in ceramic and metal versions alike. However, this type of braces isn’t the ideal choice for everyone. Even though these braces shorten the time of treatment, they don’t usually offer all of the features the other types of braces. You can read more now.

5. Lingual Braces

Highly similar to metal braces, lingual braces are the last but not the least popular type of braces. Unlike metal braces, lingual braces aren’t on the outside of the bite, but on the inside. Plus, this type of braces boasts a myriad of perks. Depending on the patient’s needs, lingual braces are usually just as effective as ceramic or metal braces, for example. However, lingual braces can’t be watched from outside of the mouth. As soon as you widely open your mouth, others can see you wearing braces, especially on the front of your teeth.

Despite all the perks, lingual braces have a lot of drawbacks as well, which is why not everyone can consider this option. Lingual braces are extremely hard to clean and to keep clean since you’re unable to see them. Whether you see your braces or not though, it’s vital to clean your teeth and mouth thoroughly.

You can also have difficulty speaking when wearing lingual braces. There might be a learning curve for your speech. However, in most cases, lingual brace wearers experience extreme discomfort and even pain when they speak. In case you have severe orthodontic issues or conditions, lingual braces aren’t the best option for you. Moreover, since lingual braces are more expensive and take a longer time to adapt, you might consider another option.

There are various types of braces and the aforementioned braces are the most common ones. Selecting the right type of braces depends on your purpose. What would you like to fix your teeth? If you’re having difficulty deciding between these 5 types of braces, it’s best to consult a professional.

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