4 Different Types of Braces for Teeth

In the past, braces could easily have been mistaken for some sort of horrendous medieval torture device. And the poor kids who had to wear them deserved equal measures of sympathy and teasing. A lot of people still have crooked teeth because they or their parents refused the idea of braces when they were young.

Thankfully, things have improved since then and modern types of braces for teeth can be almost invisible or stylish and trendy, depending on the choice you or your child make, and, of course, the orthodontic condition that needs to be treated. Here we’ve listed the 4 most common types of braces and the conditions they are most appropriate for.

Types of Braces for Teeth

• 1. Metal Braces

Often referred to as “traditional braces,” these, of all the different types of braces, most resemble the metal monstrosities. But, thanks to developments in design and materials, they are now much less noticeable, and for the wearer, much more comfortable than in days of yore.

These are also the type of braces that most teenagers get to correct misaligned teeth. They are not as expensive as other types and in most cases are the fastest method of moving teeth to their correct position. New materials mean the wires move faster and less painfully than before, and the option to choose the color of the rubber bands that hold the brackets in place means they can be personalized.

• 2. Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces provide a nearly invisible alternative to metal braces. As the brackets are made of ceramic, they can be colored to match the teeth, making them almost invisible. This makes them an excellent alternative for patients who want the relatively quick treatment provided by metal braces but without them being too noticeable.

They are, however, more expensive than metal braces and the wearer has to be extra diligent in cleaning or, like teeth, they can be stained.

• 3. Lingual Braces

These are basically metal braces put in backward. The brackets are on the insides of the teeth, not the outside. This makes them almost impossible to

see and they are nearly as effective as traditional braces.

Lingual braces do have a few drawbacks, however. They are difficult to keep clean as you can’t see them, and they are in a part of the mouth you’re probably not used to brushing too closely. Some patients also find it difficult to get used to talking and eating with lingual braces as they get in the way of the tongue. This makes them unsuitable for conditions that require extensive, long-term orthodontic treatment.

• 4. Invisalign

Invisalign is a modern way to correct tooth and jaw misalignment that is practically invisible and much more comfortable than ortho plastic trays that fit over the teeth and gently push them into place. Cleaning is made simple and easy because they can be easily removed and cleaned whenever necessary

Invisalign is more expensive and they can’t yet be used for treating severe alignment issues but where appropriate, they make a great flexible alternative to other braces.

This is just basic information on the types of braces available. To make a properly informed decision about what type is most suitable for your requirements, you need to consult your orthodontist, so book an appointment here at Doral Sedation Dentistry. We’ll be happy to give you an expert examination and then take you through your options for treatment.