Only a few people are born with straight teeth and a perfect smile, but orthodontic treatment may make a tremendous impact on both children and adults. Braces can be used to address underbites, overbites, and teeth that are crooked, crowded, or have wide gaps.

Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and self--ligating braces are some of the dental braces that may be advised to correct tooth alignment. Each kind has its own set of pros and cons that should be considered while deciding on the best treatment choice for particular cases.

Metal braces

Metal braces, also known as classic braces, are the most prevalent form of braces used worldwide and have been in use for over a century. Braces used to be fairly large and conspicuous. Fortunately, braces are not what they were 100 years ago. Braces have become more common since innovation and technology have advanced. Modern braces are small, comfortable, and effective. 

Children and adolescents are the most likely to use metal braces. They function by attaching braces to the teeth and connecting them with a wire. The wire is attached to the braces via elastic ties, which come in a variety of colors. At your checkups every 4-8 weeks, the orthodontist adjusts the wire to reposition the teeth.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are comparable in size and form to regular metal braces, but they are made of ceramics that blend with the natural shade of the teeth, making the braces less obvious.

Ceramic braces are equally as efficient as regular braces at moving teeth into appropriate positions, but it is far less obvious due to their color, making them a more desirable option for some people. However, they are often more costly than traditional braces and may become discolored if not properly cared for.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces, also known as inside braces, are custom-made brackets that are meant to match the shape on the inner surface of each tooth. A wire connects the brackets and pulls the teeth into position from the inside. They are just as effective as regular outside braces, but they take longer to fit since each bracket is individually manufactured. Lingual braces may be more difficult to clean and may impair speech in certain people.

Lingual braces are most popular among individuals who are self-conscious about how they will seem with regular braces, especially at work or school. Lingual braces are nearly invisible, however, users may be required to wear visible elastic bands.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces are a type of metal brace that doesn’t require O-rings or elastics. Traditional braces are attached with elastics, which produce friction and pressure, slowing and making therapy less pleasant. Self-ligating braces keep the wire in place and lock it in a place like a gate. They retain the wire with a sliding mechanism, allowing teeth to move more freely and pleasantly. 

Self-ligating braces were created to be unobtrusive, pleasant, and easy to clean.  Since these braces eliminate the need for O-rings or elastics that attract and accumulate dental plaque, they allow you to retain good oral health and hygiene throughout your treatment. There are ceramic and aluminum self-ligating brackets available on the market.

The bottom line

Braces are becoming increasingly popular. Technology provides options for a wide range of lifestyles as well as ways for finishing treatment efficiently and quickly. Because no two people have the same teeth, mouth, or jaw, each orthodontic case is unique. A treatment option that is effective for one patient may not be effective for another. Following an appointment, your orthodontist will be able to advise you on your options.