If you or your child have been advised to wear braces, you have the opportunity to select from several different types of braces to find the best fit for your lifestyle. The latest orthodontic technology has been used to create better metal braces, ligatureless braces and virtually invisible braces.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces have been worn for decades. They come with wires, brackets and rubber bands to help pull the teeth into the proper position. Today, traditional metal braces are less noticeable because they are smaller than the huge ones from the past. They also have new technology in their wires that use body heat to promote the teeth to move faster with less discomfort. They come in plain steel color as well as designer colors for those who want to enhance their personal style.
While wearing metal braces, you need to clean your teeth very carefully twice a day and be careful of what you eat. Hard food, such as nuts, bones and some chips, could break a wire or bracket. Soft, sticky food, such as caramel, may be very difficult to clean from between your teeth.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces look just like metal braces. The difference is the color. Ceramic braces are tooth-colored with clear brackets and are very hard to see on the teeth. They move the teeth into the correct position faster than clear plastic aligners do, but they are more delicate than metal braces and may break more easily if you eat something hard. If they are not well cared-for, they can stain.
Invisalign®
Some of the most popular types of braces are not even braces at all. Invisalign® is a type of orthodontic treatment that consists of a series of clear, BPA-free plastic aligners. They fit over your teeth and are virtually invisible. As the teeth move, a new aligner is used. This happens about every two weeks. Invisible aligners are a good option for adults who need orthodontic treatment. One of the biggest advantages of invisible aligners is the fact that you have no dietary restrictions. Since you remove the aligners while you eat, you can eat anything you usually eat. After you brush your teeth, you put the aligner back in.
Ligatureless Braces
Friction-free ligatureless braces are unique in that they use a metal clip to connect the archwire and brackets instead of a ligature. This allows the teeth to slide more freely with less friction. Patients who opt for these types of braces also report less discomfort than patients with traditional braces.
Which Option is Best for You?
Braces are important for correcting many problems with the teeth and jaw. Fortunately, today there are several different types of braces available at Lach Orthodontic Specialists that will gradually move your teeth into the right position, giving you good oral health. You can select the type, material and color that best fits your lifestyle. We have locations in Oviedo and Orlando. Contact us today to schedule your appointment to learn more.