If you or your children do not have perfect teeth, orthodontic treatment can help. Braces are suitable for people whose adult teeth have grown in and can correct many dental problems such as crooked, overcrowded or missing teeth, as well as malocclusion, which means your teeth do not meet properly. There are several types of braces, some of which are discreet and suitable for adults who hope to hide the fact that they are wearing braces. Here are some of the different types of braces that we offer.
Many people may think of a mouth full of metal when they think of braces. Fortunately, that look is a thing of the past. Today’s metal braces are much smaller and, therefore, less noticeable. Smaller braces mean they are less intrusive and more comfortable. The wires which are used now move the teeth faster and with less discomfort for the patient. They also have the additional advantage of being the fastest way of moving the teeth. Teenagers also like the possibility to personalize their braces by choosing the color of the rubber bands that go around the brackets.
Ceramic braces offer a big advantage because they are hardly noticeable. The brackets are made out of a ceramic material that is the same color and texture of your teeth. Metal and ceramic braces have food restrictions and need careful cleaning, and ceramic braces may become stained with coffee, tea, wine and colored juices.
Lingual braces function just like metal braces, but they are installed behind the teeth and cannot be seen from the front. They are more difficult to clean than other braces and take time to get used to because your tongue continuously rubs against them. However, you will get used to this. Lingual braces have certain disadvantages over other different types of braces that need to be considered before choosing this treatment.
Many orthodontists today use something that is similar to traditional and ceramic braces, called self-ligating braces. Self-ligating braces make use of the bracket and wire system without metal ties or rubber bands because they are not needed. Special brackets and clips are used to help the arch-wire pull your teeth into the right position.
Invisalign® is the treatment of choice for many people because it has proven to be an effective treatment for some conditions and it is almost invisible. Although this method cannot tackle very severe orthodontic conditions, it does have some benefits over the more traditional different types of braces.
If you need braces, you have a large selection of types and can choose the one that best suits your lifestyle. You can learn more about the different types of braces during an appointment at Ragan Orthodontics in Dallas. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for orthodontic treatment!