Did you know over four million Americans wear braces? Straighter teeth can improve your oral health and self-confidence. It can even help you avoid future health issues.
Traditional metal braces are only one of the orthodontic options available. Not sure which option suits your needs? Read on to learn more about your choices for dental braces today!
Traditional Metal Braces
When people picture dental braces, they usually imagine traditional metal braces. These appliances use metal wires and brackets.
Your orthodontist will need to glue a bracket to each tooth. They’ll place an archwire over the brackets to ensure alignment. They may use elastic bands (ligatures) to ensure the wire remains in place.
Metal braces will shift your teeth into alignment over time. However, they’re more obvious than other orthodontic options.
People will see your metal braces when you smile. For less visible options, consider clear or tooth-colored brackets.
Metal braces are more durable than other options. They’re also more effective when treating extensive orthodontic issues.
However, they may cause discomfort. They could scratch your mouth’s soft tissues. You’ll also need to adjust your diet for this form of treatment.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic clear braces function the same way as traditional metal braces. However, the brackets, wires, and ligatures will match the color of your teeth. This ensures they blend in with your smile.
These braces can move your teeth faster than clear aligners can. They’re also more effective for severe cases.
This option is less noticeable than traditional braces. However, the ceramic is more fragile than metal. Your ceramic braces could break if you don’t follow your dentist’s instructions.
Invisalign Aligners
Invisalign aligners (clear aligners) involve custom-made plastic trays. You’ll need to wear the aligners over your teeth for 20 hours a day.
You can remove your aligners to eat, brush, and floss your teeth. Neglecting to remove your aligners could cause you to damage them.
This option is ideal for adults who want discretion. Most people won’t realize you’re wearing your aligners. However, you will need to remain self-disciplined to remain on schedule.
Lingual Aligners
Lingual aligners or braces operate similarly to traditional braces. However, they’re placed at the back surface of your teeth. This can make them a more discrete treatment option.
Self-Ligating Braces
This orthodontic appliance looks similar to traditional braces. Instead of ligatures, they use a built-in system to hold the archwire.
This can ensure less friction between your braces and the wire. It could ensure smoother, faster movement.
This treatment option may cause you less discomfort. You’ll also need to check in with your orthodontist less often.
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Get Straighter Teeth With Dental Braces
Which of these orthodontic options best suits your needs? Visit your local orthodontist to find out. With their help, you can get straighter teeth and a stunning smile.
Straightening your teeth can help you avoid oral health issues in the future. You can smile with confidence, which benefits your personal and professional lives.
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