More adults are looking to straighten their teeth using braces. Thankfully, there are more options available for those looking for braces than ever before.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a teeth straightening system that employs molded plastic tooth trays that are molded to fit the patient’s teeth. The trays are designed to align the patient’s teeth. Every two weeks, the patient will change out the trays as their teeth straighten. According to studies performed by the American Dental Association, Invisalign aligners make oral hygiene easier, thereby reducing the risks of oral infections, which in turn can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes. The downsides of Invisalign are the price, which is considerably more expensive than traditional braces, and the fact that they are not designed for individuals who need serious dental correction.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces appear invisible because they are designed to run across the flip side of a person’s bite. Like traditional braces, they are made up of wires and metal brackets customized to fit the patient’s teeth. Lingual braces are a good option for individuals who have moderate to severe problems with spacing between their teeth. The downside to these braces is that they are more expensive than conventional braces. Also, because of their location in the mouth, they can be difficult to keep clean.
Self-Litigating Braces
While similar in appearance to conventional braces, the main difference is that self-litigating braces use tiny plastic bands referred to as ligatures that connect to hooks on the face of the braces to hold the wire firm against the patient’s teeth. These braces are relatively easy to clean, and because they have a smoother surface, they are less irritating to the mouth. Additionally, adjustment times are shorter because the dentist will not have to replace the ligatures every time they tighten the arch wire. The number one con of these braces is that they are not entirely invisible.
Ceramic Braces
With ceramic braces, the brackets that are attached to the teeth are made of a translucent or tooth-colored material. At first glance, they seem almost invisible because they blend in with the patient’s teeth. The cons of this form of teeth alignment is that the ligatures are made from latex, which means that they can stain, thereby defeating the purpose of the translucent quality of the brackets. Ask Dr. Bruce Hartley or a dentist in your area what foods to avoid so you can keep your ceramic braces as clean and clear as possible.
The number one complaint people have about going to the dentist either to have braces applied or have other dental work done is the anxiety, the worry, and the fear about discomfort while at the dentist. However, advances in dental care sedation techniques allow dentists to provide anxiety free, pain-free dental care.
A straight smile is an essential part of having confidence and feeling good about oneself. The various forms of braces that are available for adults makes the goal of having a straight smile a reality that you can attain.