If you have or are developing crooked teeth, you know that there are many concerns that go along with the situation. Misaligned teeth can often be unattractive and can also cause many oral health problems down the road.
When your teeth are not in proper alignment it can result in uneven wear patterns that make it difficult to clean your teeth, and even cause tension or headaches. If you are ready to look into getting orthodontic braces to help correct your smile, here is a list of a few options for braces that are available to you.
Traditional Metal Braces: These types braces consist of small metal brackets connected by wires and affixed to your teeth to gradually adjust and straighten them over a period of time. Some of the benefits include:
• Most cost-effective option for many patients;
• Can be personalized with colored bands and brackets, making them appealing to younger patients;
• Relatively easy to care for compared to ceramic and lingual braces;
• Can address a wider range of alignment issues
Ceramic Braces: These orthodontic braces are similar to traditional types in terms of structure, but the primary difference is that the brackets – and sometimes even the wires – are tooth-colored and made from ceramic instead of metal. Benefits include:
• Less noticeable than traditional metal braces;
• Similar treatment duration to traditional metal braces;
• Faster treatment time than Invisalign.
Clear Plastic Aligners (Invisalign): These aligners are best suited for those who don’t require dramatic or complex orthodontic treatment. Every two weeks, patients receive new aligners, which gradually straighten their teeth. Some benefits include:
• Nearly invisible;
• Removable for meals so patients don’t have to change their diet;
• Easy to care for.
So how do you know which orthodontic braces are best for you?
Prioritize what’s important to you about your treatment. Before weighing the pros and cons of the different kinds of orthodontic braces that are available, it’s important to prioritize what you find important about your treatment.
For example, is it more important to you that treatment takes less time, or would you say that your braces being inconspicuous is the priority? Is comfort more important to you than a quick treatment? Does cost play a large part in what kind of orthodontic braces you decide on?
What about the ease with which your braces can be taken care of? If the treatment is for a child, this could be a very important aspect to your decision about the kind of orthodontic braces you choose.
What about discomfort? Tooth movement can cause some temporary mild pain, and because some people are more sensitive than others, it’s important to know what to expect.
As you can see, there are a lot of things to take into consideration before making your decision on the type of braces you want. We can determine what the best type of orthodontic braces is for you based on the condition of your teeth and what your treatment goals are.
If your goal is to have straighter teeth and a more confident smile, give us a call today to schedule an appointment and start smiling with confidence!
Joe Webster is a freelance writer and editor living in Illinois. He studied creative writing at the University of Missouri and is known for his vibrant stories and unique take on topics. Joe has been writing and editing for over six years and loves exploring different cultures and languages. He is passionate about making meaningful connections with readers, enabling them to grow through his writing.
