It used to be the case that most people who wore orthodontic braces were children or adolescents, but that’s slowly changing as more adults begin to investigate options for straightening their teeth. The trend isn’t just due to an increased interest in having a more beautiful smile. There are also more options today than just a few decades ago.
Adults who have avoided braces because they didn’t want to deal with the aesthetic or lifestyle complications caused by metal brackets now have other options. However, each has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose wisely. Read on to learn about five different types of braces for teeth and the pros and cons of each.
1. Conventional Braces
When asked about tooth straightening, most people think of conventional braces. They used to consist of metal bands around every tooth, but today’s traditional braces hold wires in place with one single bracket cemented to the tooth’s front surface. Even with modern metal braces, a few bands will still anchor the wires in the back.
The primary benefit of conventional braces is that they offer the shortest treatment time. As a result, adults won’t have to wear them for as long, so any aesthetic issues associated with metal braces and wires will have to be tolerated for months rather than years. Conventional braces are also the least expensive option.
The primary problem with conventional braces, aside from aesthetic concerns, is that they make it difficult to brush and floss. Food is more likely to get caught between the teeth, and plaque can build up around the brackets, causing tooth decay and gum disease. Conventional braces are not a good fit for poor oral hygiene patients.
2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to their conventional metal counterparts but are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic. This tooth alignment system works the same way as metal braces but is more discreet.
Most adult patients love ceramic braces. They offer the same benefits as conventional metal braces but are less noticeable.
The trade-offs are that ceramic braces are both more expensive and larger. They can also stain patients’ teeth, so as with metal braces, this type of tooth alignment system is not suitable for everyone.
3. Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are similar in function to metal and ceramic types. Like these more conventional tooth straightening systems, they rely on wires to move patients’ teeth. The difference is that self-ligating braces use clips or doors to hold the wires. There’s no need for elastic or rubber ties.
This type of tooth alignment system is a good choice for people who might find metal or ceramic braces uncomfortable and those who experience dental anxiety. In addition, the appointment times for self-ligating braces tend to be shorter. Self-ligating braces are also easier to keep clean.
The primary downside of self-ligating braces is that they are much more expensive than other options. They also feature visible wires, which many adult patients prefer to avoid.
4. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are set behind the teeth. They’re not very common because placing them requires different skills that most orthodontists don’t want to take the time to learn and hone. Setting lingual braces is not a skill taught during conventional orthodontic training.
Although uncommon, lingual braces offer advantages not matched by other systems. They’re completely invisible, fully customizable to each patient’s teeth, and suitable for adults with complex orthodontic requirements.
The primary barrier for lingual braces is finding an orthodontist who knows how to use them, but that’s not their only issue. Lingual braces can also cause slight changes to patients’ speech and can irritate their tongues.
5. Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like the Invisalign system have recently become a popular alternative to adult braces. This type of removable system is fully transparent and requires fewer, shorter orthodontic appointments to complete.
Invisalign and similar systems aren’t for everyone. They’re best for patients who only have mild to moderate dental alignment problems.
Learn More About Options
Today, there are more ways to achieve a beautiful smile with perfect, straight teeth. The best way for dental patients to determine which option will be best is to schedule an appointment with a local dentist or orthodontist.