Types of Braces

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, it is important to note that there are a few different types of treatment so that you are able to find something that best fits your lifestyle and budget!

Orthodontist cleveland tx treatment is an excellent way to improve the overall health of your mouth and to bring about confidence in a beautiful, straight smile. Overcrowded and crooked teeth are much harder to clean than straight teeth and can lead to a buildup of bacteria and plaque and eventually cause periodontal disease which could lead to a multitude of issues down the road.

Braces are the most commonly used tool to straighten teeth. Through the years, different types of braces have been developed to accommodate different lifestyles. Here, we will review some of the options available.

• Traditional metal braces: Perhaps the most common type of orthodontic treatment, metal braces are what most people think of when they think of orthodontia! While metal braces are the most aesthetically displeasing option, The metal brackets are actually smaller than they used to be. One metal bracket cemented onto each tooth, and a metal arch wire is threaded through the brackets and held in place using a band. Some patients like to select colorful bands while others opt for clear bands to make them as least noticeable as possible. The bands are changed at each visit so younger patients enjoy selecting a new color each time! Metal braces are the least costly orthodontic treatment option.
• Ceramic braces: Adults in the workforce tend to lean towards ceramic braces since they are made using clear brackets as opposed to metal. Like traditional metal braces, ceramic braces do you use brackets and wires but the brackets are made from clear ceramic material instead of silver metal. The arch wire is white instead of silver and rather than colored bands, clear bands are used to hold the wire in place. These bands can stain from certain foods and beverages or from cigarettes, but just like metal braces, they are changed at each adjustment visit. Ceramic braces can cost an additional $500 to $700 but they are much less noticeable and are still able to correct most cases.
• Lingual braces: These are another bracket and wire system just like traditional braces and ceramic braces except lingual braces are fixed to the backside of the teeth next to the tongue. These have the advantage of being completely unseen by others but they are not as common, are harder to adjust, and are difficult to care for. They also are not ideal for severe cases of overcrowding and misalignment. Lingual braces require a scan and impression of your mouth before they can be fabricated in a dental lab which can take up to six weeks.
• Clear aligner therapy: Clear aligners are a great option for patients of any age! Though they are not ideal for patients that have extreme overcrowding or malocclusion, clear aligners have a great success for patients with an array of orthodontic issues. A lot of dentists are preferred providers for some sort of clear aligner therapy treatment so your dentist may be able to provide you with treatment instead of sending you to an orthodontist. Impressions are taken of both the upper and lower arch so that your Dentist can make models of your teeth. The models, along with photos of your teeth, bite, and facial structure are sent to the clear aligner lab and after a couple of weeks, your dentist will have your case back in their office, ready to begin treatment. Depending on the extent of movement to be achieved, you will have a series of trays that are to be worn at least 20 hours a day for 10 to 14 days before switching to a new set. Clear aligners cost between $5000 and $6000, depending on the extent of treatment. The drawback to clear aligner therapy is that you have to wear the trays for at least 20 to 22 hours per day and if you are not compliant, it will slow your treatment and progress. Clear aligners are not suitable for severe cases of overcrowding. Another clear aligner option is ClearCorrect which uses the same technology but can be a little less costly.

Enduring orthodontic treatment is not fun but it is a great way to correct many dental maladies. While it is expensive, orthodontic treatment can help correct current problems that could lead to bigger more expensive problems in the future. Speak with your dentist to see if you are a good candidate for orthodontic treatment and if they provide a treatment option that would benefit you. If they do not, they can refer you to an orthodontist that should be able to help!

More on Braces : Lingual Braces