The quest for a straight smile, perfect, has always been in popular demand. Coupled with increasing dental problems, this has caused the need for braces to soar globally. Braces provide cosmetic care and solve dental issues like uneven bites or teeth gaps. Orthodontics advancements have introduced various braces to cater to different needs and preferences. However, with so many options available, one can feel overwhelmed when deciding the kind of braces to get.
In this article, we will explore various kinds of braces, their features, advantages, and considerations. Understanding these options will help you decide the most suitable treatment for your orthodontic needs. If you are in the area looking for the best treatment option that caters to your issues, check out the orthodontist Jersey City has for expert opinion. They will thoroughly examine and discuss treatment options based on your lifestyle and budget.
Table of Contents
1. Traditional Metal Braces
These are the most common and widely used braces for dental issues. They are typically made of stainless steel, and the metal bracket is tightly put around the patient’s teeth, held firmly by a metal alloy wire and tiny rubber bands.
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Metal braces offer a highly reliable option for complex dental issues but are highly noticeable, but designs have now improved with smaller brackets, resulting in less visibility. Patients often complain of difficulty chewing, brushing teeth, and getting food stuck between the metal frame.
Traditional metal braces typically cost between $2,000 to $6,000. Regular visits to your dentists are vital to track your progress. The treatment time ranges from 18 to 36 months, depending upon the severity of your dental issues.
2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces offer an aesthetic alternative to typical metal braces. These braces are made of blended ceramic and porcelain material designed to match the natural color of your teeth. Ceramic braces often come in a transparent material, containing the same brackets as metal braces. These features decrease the prominence of braces over your teeth. Ceramic braces are also more comfortable than metal ones.
However, ceramic braces are slightly larger than metal braces, making it harder to maintain dental hygiene. They also cause enamel damage, receding gum line, and swollen gums. They are often more likely to break off and fracture. Due to their fragile nature, the treatment time is also delayed. Ceramic braces are also more expensive, costing between $3,000 to $7,000.
3. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are manufactured from the same material as traditional metal braces but are placed on the backside of the teeth instead of on the front. The strength and time of treatment are the same as metal braces.
However, lingual braces are hard to make, making them uncommon. They also require specialist dental professionals to put them into your teeth and excellent follow-up care. It also takes some initial time to adjust to speaking and tongue movements. And they may cause tongue sores in the starting period. Due to their highly personalized nature and specialist care, lingual braces cost between $5000 to $10,000.
4. Clear Aligners
Otherwise known as Invisalign, clear braces offer an excellent alternative to all treatment options available for teeth straightening. These virtually invisible aligners are made from BPA-free plastic and are custom designed to move teeth to the desired position gradually.
Clear aligners are worn the same way athletes wear their mouthguards. Invisalign is designed for comfort, aesthetics, and convenience. They can be removed while eating, brushing, flossing, and special occasions.
The treatment duration ranges from 6-18 months or more, depending upon the severity of the dental issues. However, with clear aligners, more responsibility falls on the patient as you need to put them on and off periodically. They cost the same as metal braces, ranging from $2000 to $6000.
5. Self Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are similar in appearance to traditional metal braces but differ in their mechanism. Unlike metal braces which require rubber bands to hold the wires together, self-ligating braces use built-in clips that secure the archwire.
Without the bands, these braces offer much less friction and a faster treatment option. Maintaining dental hygiene and chewing without the fear of trapping food particles are significant upsides to these braces. Self-ligating braces cost between $2000 to $7000.
Endnote
Before opting for any type of braces, it is essential to consult with an experienced orthodontist. Metal braces are highly suitable for refractory and severe dental issues, while ceramic braces offer a great aesthetic alternative. Lingual braces offer a discreet treatment, while clear aligners offer comfort and flexibility. Working with an orthodontist allows you to embark on a healthy journey toward a straighter smile and healthy teeth alignment.
When you’re ready to get your braces, you can check out this dentist in Syracuse to get started.
