Orthodontic braces serve to reposition your teeth and may be necessary if you suffer from an overbite, misaligned teeth or a misaligned jaw. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that, ideally, individuals should receive braces during puberty as an adult's mouth and facial bones are more difficult to reposition. Your orthodontist may recommend one of several varieties of braces, depending on your situation and preferences.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are composed of stainless steel bands and wires connected to metal brackets on each tooth. This allows the orthodontist to easily loosen or tighten the braces periodically and achieve the desired result. Although traditional metal braces are the most functional variety available, according to Ohio State University Research News, they are also the least aesthetically pleasing. For those who opt for traditional braces, colored bands and wires are available to add an element of fun to the tooth-straightening process. These options are particularly popular with children and teenagers.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces, sometimes referred to as "invisible braces," are fitted on the inside of the teeth rather than the outside. Although these braces are also made of metal, they aren't as effective as the traditional variety. According to Dr. Donald Joondeph, an associate professor of orthodontics at the University of Washington, lingual braces can irritate a patient's tongue due to their location and may also adversely affect speech. A patient opting for lingual braces may also face additional treatment time than if he chose traditional metal braces, the U.S. General Services Administration notes. Lingual braces may also cost $10,000 or more, as of 2010--twice the cost of braces fitted to the exterior, rather than interior, of each tooth.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are composed of ceramic, rather than metal, brackets attached to each tooth. Because the brackets match the color of your teeth, ceramic braces are less noticeable and beneficial for those who want to correct their bite or misalignment but worry about their appearance during the process. Although the ceramic brackets are stain-resistant, the connecting wire is not. Ceramic braces are also more prone to breakage than traditional metal braces, New Jersey orthodontist Dr. Robert Silverstein notes.
Invisalign
The Invisalign system consists of small plastic trays specifically constructed to fit your teeth. The trays are clear, and thus not readily apparent to others, but they work to align your teeth without the need for non-removable braces. You must replace your Invisalign trays periodically with new ones as your teeth gradually move to the desired position.
The American Academy of Orthodontists notes that the Invisalign system may not be well-suited for all patients. Individuals with well-aligned jaws are the best candidates for Invisalign. If you need complex corrections, your orthodontist may recommend other forms of tooth and jaw alignment in addition to the Invisalign system.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Orthodontics/Braces
- Ohio State University Research: Survey--Most Effective Dental Braces Are Least Attractive
- U.S. General Services Administration: Straight Talk on Braces
- Dr. Robert Silverstein--New Jersey Orthodontics: General Information About Braces
- American Academy of Orthodontists: What is Invisalign and How Well Does It Work?
