Whether you have an overbite, crooked teeth, gapped teeth, or other dental issues, wearing braces is a great way to achieve the smile you want. When you meet with an orthodontist to discuss your options, you may not be aware that there are multiple types of braces you can wear. But what are the different types of braces available?
This guide explains everything you need to know when selecting braces. Whether you want invisible or metal braces in Metairie, Maldonado Orthodontics can accommodate your wishes and give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
Understanding the Different Types of Braces
Before an orthodontist fits you for corrective braces, it’s smart to understand all of your options. Certain types of braces are better suited for your lifestyle and can straighten your teeth in a short amount of time. Depending on your budget, style preference, and oral hygiene routine, you may find one product is superior to the others.
What are the different types of braces you can wear? Below is a breakdown of the top choices orthodontists offer.
Traditional Metal Braces
When most people hear the word “braces,” they think of metal braces. Traditional metal braces slowly move your teeth using stainless steel bands, wires, and brackets. The hardware works together to shift your teeth and leave you with a straighter smile.
These braces are visible when you smile and orthodontists can use a variety of colors for the supportive bands called ligatures..
Plastic Aligners
When you ask an orthodontist, “What are the different types of braces that offer the most convenience?” they will likely say clear aligners. These aligners are removable, so you can eat and drink as you please without having to worry about cleaning off your braces. However, you have to wear them 22 hours a day for them to be effective.
Many patients love wearing plastic aligners because they tend to be more comfortable than other options and make your oral hygiene routine much easier since you can take them out to brush and floss your teeth. You should note that because of these benefits, clear aligners are often more expensive than traditional metal braces. Your dental care insurance benefits may cover the cost of clear aligners.
Clear Braces
Ceramic or clear braces are another option to traditional metal braces. They function the same way but the brackets, wires, and ligatures are all made to blend in with your teeth. The braces are not entirely invisible, but they are much less noticeable than the alternative.
Since these braces use ceramic material instead of metal, they are sometimes only placed on the upper teeth, with traditional metal on the lower. The brackets themselves do not stain, but the clear ligatures can stain if you smoke or drink a lot of coffee. However, these clear ligatures are replaced at every appointment, which is usually 6 weeks.
Lingual Braces (InBrace)
While plastic aligners are a popular choice, they aren’t the only form of braces that are invisible. Lingual braces utilize the same equipment as metal braces except orthodontists place them on the back of the teeth instead of the front. This gives the illusion that you aren’t wearing any braces when you smile.
You can smile with confidence without letting anyone know you have braces. However, lingual braces may make your tongue feel uncomfortable as it touches the back of your teeth where the metal is.
Enhance Your Smile at Maldonado Orthodontics
What are the different types of braces you can get? How long will you need to wear them? How can you clean and care for your teeth while wearing braces? At Maldonado Orthodontics, we can answer these and other frequently asked questions about braces. If you’re looking for a straighter, brighter smile, we’re the team you can count on. Contact our office in Metairie, LA, at (504) 455-5581 to schedule a consultation.
