What are the different types of braces?
Were you aware that there are different types of braces other than the traditional metal kind? Thanks to the fact that orthodontic treatment has advanced in the past few decades, patients with unique needs or preferences have options when it comes to braces. Today, we'll explain the types of metal braces available at our office in Calgary.
Metal Braces (Traditional)
Braces have prevailed as the preferred technique for straightening teeth for decades. As the most prevalent form of braces, they are usually the ones that everyone thinks of and the ones you likely remember seeing friends wear in your teens.
They are comprised of stainless steel, which should make them feel more comfortable than previous iterations. Using metal brackets and archwires to straighten your teeth gives you the chance to customize the look of your braces by having coloured elastics (rubber bands) to match your style, dress code or outfit.
Translucent (Ceramic) Braces
Ceramic braces, which are made of transparent materials, are popular with older teens and adults since they should be less noticeable on the teeth than metal braces.
There is one thing to bear in mind about ceramic braces: they are bigger in size and more brittle than regular braces, thus they will necessitate greater attention to oral cleanliness than traditional braces. Instead of using them on lower teeth, orthodontists normally prefer to use them on the higher front teeth.
Self-Ligating Braces
These braces are normally available with transparent or ceramic brackets, as well as the more standard metal brackets. The elastics in these braces have been replaced with a specific clip that assists the archwire in moving the teeth into place, despite their similar size to metal braces.
Because elastics don't usually have to be replaced, the clip necessitates fewer modifications and decreases the amount of pressure put on each tooth.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
This series of transparent, soft, and virtually undetectable acrylic trays straighten your teeth in the same way as braces do. They are, however, detachable, so you should be able to eat and drink whatever you like while you are receiving treatment as long as you clean your teeth and the clear aligners afterward.
Additionally, brushing and flossing should be easier. Because the aligners are made of plastic rather than metal, there is virtually no chance of having abrasions in your mouth from the wires used during treatment.
We will be pleased to discuss which sort of braces will work best for you and your requirements, no matter what your style or requirements are. Contact us now.