Common Types of Orthodontics Braces
Technology changes rapidly and that means there are a lot of new types of braces that may not have been around when you were younger. Your children, and even you, can reap the benefits of these advancements and get the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Metal Braces
When you think of braces you probably think of standard metal braces, using metal brackets and wires to guide the teeth. This is still a commonly used treatment today but the braces aren’t what they used to be. Today’s metal braces are much sleeker and even more efficient than ever before. Some metal braces even use heat activated archwires to take advantage of the temperature in your mouth to move your teeth even quicker and more comfortably than ever.
Ceramic/Clear Braces
Clear and ceramic braces work the same as traditional metal braces but use tooth colored or clear brackets to allow them to blend in better with the natural teeth. In some cases, tooth colored wires can even be used to make the treatment even less noticeable. These braces are effective but may not be as strong as metal braces so they may break or fracture. Some types of clear braces may also be more prone to staining so it’s important to pay extra attention to your oral care while wearing these. We use Symetri braces, which are almost translucent, offering a high level of aesthetics.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are metal braces, but with a cool twist that makes them virtually unnoticeable to others. Instead of being placed on the outside of the teeth, the brackets are placed on the inside, or lingual side of the teeth. That means no one will even realize you are wearing braces. These are a bit more complicated than traditional metal braces, however, so they are more expensive and not every orthodontist may offer them. They also may not be the most appropriate treatment option for more severe malocclusions. Dr. Gire uses Inbrace lingual braces that are easy to maintain, invisible, and completely customized to your individual smile.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are metal or clear braces that don’t use a traditional elastic tie to hold the archwires in place. Instead, they use a slide mechanism that places less friction and pressure which can make the braces experience more comfortable. Some patients in self-ligating braces may also experience faster treatment times depending on the case.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners allow patients to straighten their teeth in one of the most discrete ways possible. Aligners are made of smooth, clear plastic that is almost invisible, making it hard to detect for others. The aligners are made to fit directly over your teeth, and through a series of aligners, guide your teeth to their new locations. They are removable, meaning you don’t have to make any adjustments to your normal routine. Simply remove the aligners to brush, floss, eat, and drink anything other than water. Dr. Gire uses both Invisalign and Spark aligner systems.
There are a lot of options for today’s orthodontic patients. It’s important to research and discuss the options with a board-certified orthodontist so that you understand everything that may go in to your treatment. The goal at Gire Orthodontics is always to provide patients with beautiful, functional smiles with treatment that can easily fit into the patient’s lifestyle and budget.
