If you or your child need orthodontic treatment, there are several options available, each with their own pros and cons. Knowing things like how much maintenance is involved with a particular type of orthodontics or how they might impact your appearance can help you make the best decision.
In this article, we’ll review three types of orthodontics to help you better understand your options.
- Metal Braces – This is what most people picture when they think of orthodontics. Braces are designed to shift your teeth over time using brackets, bands, and wires. They are very versatile and can be used to correct a number of issues, but the metal components may cause discomfort or irritation in your mouth. Metal braces require frequent brushing and flossing, but since they are attached to your teeth, there is no risk of them forgetting to put them on or not wearing them for the appropriate amount of time. Metal braces are also generally the most cost-effective orthodontics option.
- Clear Braces – Clear braces have all the same qualities as metal ones, but they are made with ceramic brackets that are much less noticeable. If you are worried about appearance, clear braces are a more affordable option than something like Invisalign. Like metal braces, they are affixed to your teeth, but they tend to cause less irritation than metal braces because the ceramic is smoother.
- Invisalign – If your main concern with orthodontics is comfort and appearance, there is no better option than Invisalign. This method uses a series of custom-made alignment trays to improve the position of your teeth. Roughly every two weeks, you will be fitted for a new set of trays that slowly move your teeth into the desired position. The trays must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day, and you must be diligent about wearing them for the required time in order for them to work.