There are several different types of braces, including traditional, ceramic, and lingual braces. In some cases, aligners can provide similar results as braces while providing patients with additional flexibility. At Runnels Orthodontics, we can help you choose the right braces for any type of orthodontic issue you are looking to address in Destin, FL.
The Different Types of Braces
When you think of braces, you probably imagine metal brackets connected via a wire on the front of your teeth. However, there are various types of braces available today, each with a different set of benefits:
Traditional Braces
Conventional braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They are the ones you often see in pre-teens and teenagers. They include a metal bracket on each tooth, and wire runs through them and connects to a metal ring on the back molars. Tiny rubber bands hold the metal in place on each bracket.
With traditional braces, you can address any orthodontic issue, including bite correction, teeth straightening, crowded teeth, and gaps. They’re quite versatile, and they’re cost-effective. They’re usually the cheapest alternative for orthodontic treatment; most dental plans will cover at least some of the cost.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional braces, with two main differences. First, they come in shades close to the natural tooth’s color. This means you can select a set that closely matches your teeth, making them less visible to others.
However, ceramic braces aren’t quite as durable as traditional metal ones. They’re more likely to break if you bite into hard food or play contact sports. You’ll need to be a little more careful with ceramic braces than you might be with traditional ones, and in some cases, you may need a guard to protect them during certain activities.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are metal, just like traditional braces. However, instead of sitting on the front part of your teeth, they’re placed behind them. College students and adults who prefer not to wear traditional braces may find lingual braces a better alternative since they’re less visible to others.
Lingual braces can take care of the same issues as traditional braces, including bite correction, overcrowding, and gaps. While lingual braces are less common than conventional braces, they’re an excellent alternative for people who are looking for a more discreet orthodontic treatment.
Clear Aligners
In recent years, the use of aligners to correct orthodontic issues has exploded. Clear aligners like Invisalign can offer all of the benefits of traditional dental braces, but they’re completely removable. You can take them out when you brush your teeth, eat, or have an important event to attend.
Clear aligners are appropriate for both teens and adults. People who choose clear aligners must wear them for up to 22 hours daily to see the best results.
Aligners are especially beneficial for people with minor concerns, such as a need for teeth straightening or crowded teeth. People with more severe orthodontic problems may require a different solution. In most cases, clear aligners can correct an orthodontic problem in a much shorter time frame than you’d see with traditional orthodontic braces.
Factors to Consider When Deciding on the Right Types of Braces
Which type of braces is best for you and your smile goals depends on several different factors, such as:
Your Age
Traditional braces are most common in pre-teens and teenagers. Older adults may not feel as comfortable wearing them simply because their peers at work or university aren’t as likely to have them.
If you’d prefer that your decision to treat your orthodontic issues go unnoticed, then lingual dental braces or clear aligners may be a better option. Ceramic braces can be a less conspicuous solution as well.
Cost
Traditional orthodontic braces are the most cost-effective option. Not only are they cheaper than ceramic and lingual braces, but most dental plans will also cover a significant portion of the expense, even if you’re an adult. When it comes to clear aligners, you may need to foot the bill out-of-pocket, but treatment is usually shorter and less extensive.
Your Commitment to Your Treatment
Some patients, especially pre-teens and teenagers, may not keep up with their treatment, particularly if given removable clear aligners. If you’re a parent of a child who needs orthodontic treatment, you’re in the best position to determine whether your child is likely to keep their aligners in their mouth all day or whether they’ll take them out while at school or before sleeping. If you think treatment continuity will be an issue, sticking with traditional braces is probably better.
Dental Hygiene Habits
Wearing braces can make it more challenging to clean your teeth as you usually would. Brackets will cover the front or the back of your teeth, and wires will cross the front of each tooth. That means it will be harder to floss, and you may need special tools to clean appropriately between brackets.
Parents worried about their child’s dental hygiene during orthodontic treatment may find aligners a better option. Similarly, adults who don’t want to deal with careful brushing and flossing will likely find aligners more attractive. However, proper dental hygiene with traditional braces is definitely doable if your particular concerns warrant treatment with them.
Get Customized Recommendations in Destin, FL
Choosing between the various types of braces can be tricky. At Runnels Orthodontics in Destin, FL, we offer all of these types of dental braces and can determine which one can best suit your or your child’s unique needs. Give us a call or contact us online today to schedule your consultation.
