When you think of teeth braces, you probably picture all the pain when straightening your teeth. Having teeth braces is not an experience that many of us would love to have. They produce incredible smiles, but getting to that point isn’t always easy. Many people still opt for conventional metal braces, but in 2021 many different options depend on your dental needs and budget. Let’s take a look at several popular types of teeth braces and aligners.
Metal Braces
These are all the braces we’ve seen so far. These braces are also known as traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires to align the teeth structure for a certain period. However, in recent decades, some orthodontists have begun using heat-activated archwires with conventional braces. These allow you to use the natural heat of your mouth to move your teeth faster than in the past.
Also, these braces are not inexpensive, but conventional braces are usually the least expensive of all the options. Conventional braces can solve almost any misalignment problem in record time. However, conventional braces are noticeable when you smile and can cause self-esteem issues. On the other hand, the plastic rings of conventional braces come in synonymous colors that many patients like to choose.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic brackets are very similar to conventional braces. They sit on the teeth just like conventional braces, but they blend in a little better with the overall appearance of the teeth because they are made of colored ceramic material. Sometimes the wires can be colored to make the braces invisible.
They work just as quickly and effectively as metal braces, but they tend to be more expensive. Ceramic brackets are not as noticeable as traditional braces. Ceramic braces can correct almost any misalignment in record time. But if not cared for properly, ceramic veneers can become stained. Also, ceramic braces are slightly more expensive than traditional braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are a bit different from previous types. These braces are attached on the back of the teeth instead of the front. This makes them almost invisible, but they are more embarrassing than traditional braces because your tongue often comes in contact with them. Also, lingual braces can’t fix everything, so if you’re thinking about getting them, ask your orthodontist if they work for you.
Lingual braces are not noticeable when you smile. If lingual braces are ideal for your situation, they are sometimes quick. However, some patients report feeling uncomfortable wearing lingual braces because of their position. Lingual braces have more contact with all the sensitive tissues of the mouth than ceramic or traditional braces.
Clear Aligner
When talking about new technology in the dentistry industry, these teeth braces don’t feel like braces. The clear aligner has taken the dental market by storm over the past fifteen decades, offering clear clip-on braces that whiten teeth with brackets, posts or wires. Patients who choose clear aligners often have to use trays to get the best results.
But, fortunately for them, the trays are clear and reasonably comfortable. So it’s not too much work. However, you really do have to remove them when you drink or eat dark liquids to avoid discoloration. But, the clear aligner doesn’t work as well as conventional braces, especially in settings. Talk to your orthodontist to find out if Invisalign is right for you.