What are the different types of Braces? That’s a question we here at Serrano Orthodontics here quite a lot. If you’re anything like us, it’s been a while since high school, and we’re happy to report that, at least as far as orthodontic treatment is concerned, a lot’s changed for the better!
Today’s braces are lighter, more comfortable, and more effective than ever. From traditional metal brackets to clear aligners such as Invisalign, there’s a lot to cover. Thankfully, Dr. Paul and Dr. Andrew are here to help. They laid out a list of the different types of braces, how they work, and what sorts of cases they’re right for below. Let’s get going!
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are today’s most widely employed style, although this is starting to change. While other options are becoming more available, traditional metal braces are often the best option for your or your child’s care.
Today’s braces are smaller, faster, more comfortable and more effective than ever!
Metal braces are applied to the teeth with special dental cement and connected by a wire. Your doctor will adjust the wire periodically to guide your treatment.
Many parents prefer traditional braces to removable aligners such as Invisalign since they don’t have to remind their kids to wear them! Of course, it’s important to remember that your child’s braces will require maintenance and care, and the development or upkeep of good oral hygiene habits is a must.
Ceramic (Clear) Braces
Ceramic braces are often referred to as Clear braces due to their material, which is a similar color to your child’s teeth. Functionally quite similar to traditional braces, these have the advantage of being less apparent, which many patients love. Clear braces are great for young adults and children who aren’t excited about the visibility aspect of traditional braces.
Ask Dr. Paul or Dr. Andrew about ceramics for you or your child. They are a practical part of any good orthodontist’s toolset, but it’s important to remember that they are slightly larger than traditional braces and cost a bit more. Additionally, adjustments generally occur at a slower pace, as the ceramics aren’t capable of withstanding the pressure of conventional braces. This means your ceramic treatment could take a bit longer.
Self-ligating Brace
Self-ligating braces differ from traditional and clear braces because they do not use elastic ties to secure the wire connecting the brackets. Instead, Dr. Paul or Dr. Andrew will secure your braces with a series of brackets and clips that allow the wire to move on its own. What this means is that not only will you not have the issues that come with cumbersome and stainable wires, but also that, in most cases, the treatment will proceed more quickly and require fewer appointments.
Self-ligating braces are a more advanced form of hardware, and correspondingly, you can expect them to be a little more expensive. Also, they are often not as effective with more complex cases, So your doctor may still recommend traditional or clear braces, depending on your or your child’s particular case.
Lingual Braces
At the cutting edge of orthodontic treatment, lingual braces are installed behind the teeth. They have the advantage of being almost entirely unnoticeable and less likely to result in calcification, one drawback of traditional braces involving the adhesive used to attach the brackets to the teeth.
Lingual braces are generally only suitable for less advanced cases. Additionally, they are more expensive than other options, can be more challenging to keep clean, and, in some cases, may result in slight alterations in speech patterns. If this does develop, the symptoms are generally very mild and go away as the patient grows accustomed to the braces.
Invisalign And Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign consist of an advanced set of clear aligning trays that fit snugly over your teeth and gently move them into position over time. Much like traditional bracketed braces, they can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to render a full course of treatment.
Also, much like traditional braces, they are prescribed and administered by a trained orthodontist.
Invisalign operates by combining sophisticated 3D imaging technology with 3D printing technology. Dr. Paul or Dr. Andrew will take a detailed scan of your or your child’s teeth and jaw, then carefully customize a course of care that results in an initial set of clear trays with micro-adjustments to the beginning positions of the teeth and jaws.
New aligners will be administered roughly every two weeks, with periodic appointments to ensure that treatment is going according to plan, as well as to make any adjustments required.
Invisalign is an effective alternative to installed braces. It is an attractive option, as the trays are removable, but it is essential to remember that they need to be worn regularly to remain effective. Additionally, it is crucial to be sure and keep them clean. The trays can be brushed at the same time as your teeth.
Your Smile Starts Today!
Here at Serrano Orthodontics, we want you to feel like you’re in control of your treatment. That’s why we love that you’ve taken the time to stay informed on the different types of braces, and that’s why we’re proud to be Phoenix and Chandler’s go-to specialists for orthodontic care. Call today for a free consultation, and let’s see what’s right for you!