Braces can treat various dental problems, such as crowded, rotated, gapped, or crooked teeth. There are multiple types of braces, such as clear aligners like Invisalign, ceramic braces, and traditional metal braces.
Each type has advantages and disadvantages that are important when selecting the treatment.
Braces have the remarkable ability to not only enhance the look of your smile but also improve its health and feel. They can transform your dental situation, giving you a reason to smile with confidence.
Read this blog till the end if you want to know about types of braces.
What are braces?
Braces can straighten your teeth and resolve a wide range of orthodontic issues; for example:
- Crowded teeth.
- Gapped teeth.
- Crooked teeth.
- Malocclusion
Braces are more common in children and teens, but adults also wear braces. Americans over 18 make up 20% of all orthodontic patients.
In most cases, orthodontists, specializing in orthodontics, use braces. However, some general dentists also suggest them.
How do braces work?
Braces work by gently and continuously applying pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into their correct positions. This unique way depends on the type of braces you choose and may also factor into the financial planning for dentists.
Types of Braces
Metal or traditional braces
The most popular type of braces worldwide is metal or traditional. This brace type has been in use for more than a century.
Braces were very vast and noticeable in ancient times. Luckily, braces today are very different from those of a century ago.
Now, braces are more accessible thanks to advances in creativity and technology.
So, you can easily access modern braces:
- Smaller
- Faster
- More Effective
- More Comfortable
Metal braces are more common among children and teenage patients. The first step involves applying braces to the teeth and connecting them with a wire.
Secondly, the wire is connected to the braces using elastic ties.it is available in various colors for selection. The orthodontist adjusts the wire at your sessions every 4-8 weeks to shift the teeth.
Moreover, Metal braces are popular due to their convenience. Thus, they require care and good oral hygiene for effective treatment.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces, also known as clear braces, perform the same way as metal braces. The main difference is that the brackets, wires, and ligatures are tooth-colored, allowing the braces to blend in with your teeth.
Although less obvious, ceramic braces are still present. However, one disadvantage is that they are more brittle than metal braces. Also, they are increasing the likelihood of breakage.
Self-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces are similar to conventional metal braces in appearance. The primary difference is that Self-ligating braces use a built-in system to secure the archwire in place, unlike ligatures, which are tiny elastic bands.
Invisalign Braces
Invisalign is a unique type of brace that uses custom-made, clear plastic aligners worn over teeth. The aligners are easily removed and replaced every two weeks. Typically, 18-30 aligners are required for desired results.
Hence, some patients prefer this brace style because it is almost invisible and gives them more flexibility in eating food. Nevertheless, their cost is significantly higher. Also, they are limited to treating mild to moderate dental issues in adults and teenagers.
