Are There Different Types of Braces?

Braces Brick Township, NJ

As dentistry has progressed significantly, there are now so many options for people seeking straighter teeth. Having straight teeth is something that almost everyone hopes to achieve at some point in their lives.

Braces have been around for a long time, and they are used to straighten teeth that are naturally crooked. Sometimes when people’s adult teeth grow in, they do not come in evenly. Crooked teeth can be corrected with braces, and many different kinds are available. 

Different types of braces

Here are different types of braces that patients can consider if they want to straighten their teeth. 

Traditional or metal braces

Metal braces have long been the traditional types of braces that a person gets when they are hoping to straighten their teeth. Metal braces consist of brackets and wires. The brackets are cemented to the surface of each tooth, and wire connects each bracket.

Traditional braces move each tooth individually through the use of each bracket. Each tooth will shift on its own through the bracket and wires. Over time, the teeth will line up evenly, thus producing the desired results. Traditional braces are the least costly variety.

Lingual braces

These types of braces are newer to the dental industry, but they have various benefits. Lingual braces use the same wiring and bracket system that traditional braces do, except instead of having the brackets and wires on the outer sides of the teeth, they are cemented in place on the undersides, which are not visible to observers.

Lingual braces provide the same type of correction as traditional braces, but they are less visible, allowing for a more discreet method of treatment. Some people are not keen on the idea of having metal visible on their teeth, so lingual braces are an ideal alternative.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners have grown in popularity for people hoping to straighten their teeth, especially adults. This method of braces is discreet, and a person can have their teeth straightened without anyone being able to tell. Traditional brackets shift each tooth individually, but clear aligners shift the teeth all together.

Since the aligners are removable, it can be tempting to remove them unnecessarily, which may result in forgetting to wear them for long periods of time. In order to get the desired results, the aligners must be worn at all times (except when eating and performing dental hygiene routines).

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces except that the metal brackets are replaced with ceramic ones. These braces are appealing because the ceramic brackets match the color of the teeth, so they are more difficult to see. The wires are typically still metal, though some orthodontic offices can provide wires that are also similar to the natural tooth color.

Braces can be a great way to straighten out crooked teeth. With all the options available now, it is best to consult an orthodontic specialist, as they can help patients determine what is best for their teeth.

Frequently asked questions about braces

Patients who need teeth straightening treatments may have questions regarding braces.

1. How long will I have to wear braces?

How long a patient has to wear braces varies due to factors like the type of orthodontic issue that they have and its severity. Everyone responds differently to braces, but it typically takes somewhere between 12 and 36 months for most patients. People with moderate teeth alignment issues might be done with their treatment in as little as 18 months.

2. Does wearing braces hurt?

Braces should not always hurt but there is an uncomfortable adjustment period. People who get braces placed on their teeth often have discomfort for the first few days as their cheeks, gums, and teeth get used to the appliance.

3. How does wearing braces affect oral hygiene?

People who wear braces should aim to brush their teeth after every meal. The braces and wires of braces tend to trap debris and food particles, giving oral bacteria the fuel that they need to make acids that damage teeth. Brushing after every meal helps eliminate food particles stuck between the brackets and wires. Using a water flosser is also helpful because flossing with braces on the teeth can be challenging.

4. How often do I need to visit a dentist when wearing braces?

People who wear braces typically have to visit a dentist every two months or so. This level of frequency enables the dentist to evaluate the patient’s improvements and make adjustments to the braces as needed. These appointments also include the dentist checking for tooth decay, as braces increase the risk of decay. 

Get straighter teeth

If you have questions, reach out to our office today so we can help you. Our trained professionals can answer questions or address your concerns regarding braces. Give us a call or stop by today!

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