In modern orthodontic treatment, you have many different options. There are 4 main types of dental braces that have been proven to be effective and will improve alignment of any patient's teeth. My advise is to choose braces or appliances that will best meet your needs, suit your lifestyle and provide you with maximum comfort during treatment. I will, of course, suggest the best option for your case.
Option 1: Metal braces
These are the classics in the orthodontic treatment. There are designed of two main components – metal brackets that are glued to the tooth surface, and metal archwires connecting the brackets, force acting and altering on teeth. Metal braces are the most affordable option, it is also the one that provides the fastest teeth adjustment. Advances in innovation have made these not so aesthetic braces in the past – significantly smaller and less noticeable. Consequently, the stereotypes that people have about them are changing. New technologies made metal archwires move the teeth with less pain and in a shorter period. Metal braces are the perfect solution for any teenager. There is a wide range of colours in their elastic ligatures and it allows each patient to select the way their smile will look like during treatment.
Option 2: Ceramic braces
These are perfect solution for people who prefer more discreet treatment. Made of ceramic material in a translucent white matte, these braces are harder to see. If patient wishes to retain their beautiful appearance, archwires can also have a white coating. They are an increasingly popular option for orthodontic treatment. Compared to metal braces, their price is slightly higher, but comparatively lower than Invisalign. You should know, however, that these braces are also slightly larger than metal braces and can stain depending diet and brushing habits. The discomfort they cause is comparable to that of metal braces. Their larger proportions are to ensure their strength as the material is fragile.
Option 3: Sapphire braces
The key word here is simply aesthetic. These braces are made of fully transparent sapphire crystal, which delicately matches with the natural color of the teeth. They are an extremely beautiful option that not only achieve excellent results, but also make patients feel more confident in their vision during the treatment period. Their main disadvantages are high fragility and longer treatment caused by the friction between the braces and the metal archwires, which makes it difficult for the teeth to alter.
Option 4: Lingual braces
Do you want to undergo orthodontic treatment without anyone noticing your braces? If your answer is ‘Yes’, this option is perfect for you. Lingual braces behind the teeth are especially well-suited for adults who do not want noticeable braces. Lingual braces are the same as metal braces, but they are fixed behind the teeth. However, maintaining good hygiene with them is significantly more difficult and some patients can experience speech difficulties. Gradually, your mouth becomes accustomed to the new appliances, but the period of adaptation and return to the natural manner of speaking is longer. If the deformities to be corrected are more severe and require complex treatment, lingual braces are not a suitable solution. The high cost is another factor why patients are less likely to choose these braces.
Option 5: Self-ligating braces
Their specific feature is that instead of rubber bands, they use a built-in mechanism in the bracket to hold the archwire in place. This mechanism also imposes their larger sizes. They retain less food and are less painful compared to the others. Patients with self-ligating braces visit their orthodontist less frequently, and treatment is shorter. You can choose between a metal and ceramic version, but these braces are not suitable for everyone.
