Modern braces have come a long way in terms of their appearance and effectiveness. Nowadays, there are also several alternatives to traditional braces available. Please read our guide to the different types of braces to make an informed decision on the orthodontic treatment that is right for you. 

Guide to the Different Types of Braces

Modern orthodontics offers various effective treatment methods. However, the choice of treatment option might depend not only on personal or aesthetic preferences but also on the severity of a patient’s orthodontic issues. Below, we discuss the different types of orthodontic solutions and their advantages and disadvantages. 

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional braces consist of brackets and a wire that connects them. They straighten teeth and correct bites by gradually applying pressure to them and forcing them to move into the desired position over time. The most significant advantage of traditional metal braces is that they are very durable and can withstand a lot of pressure. As a result, they are reliable and effective at fixing even the most complicated orthodontic issues. 

Wearing traditional braces might come with some inconveniences, such as difficulty properly brushing and flossing your teeth due to the wires. However, there are special tools available on the market to make this process easier. Also, metal parts of braces can rub the soft tissue in the mouth, causing soreness and discomfort. However, these feelings tend to go away once you are used to wearing braces. 

There is no such thing as painless orthodontic treatment, and braces are no exception. Orthodontic appliances make your teeth move through the jawbone to get into the correct position, which will inevitably cause some soreness, especially every time the braces are adjusted. Some people report feeling more pain with braces than with, for example, Invisalign. However, the teeth get accustomed to the pressure, and the pain typically goes away in a couple of days. 

Accelerated Braces

Accelerated braces treatment involves traditional or other types of braces in combination with other procedures to expedite tooth movement. This orthodontic treatment is suitable for people who can not commit to wearing an appliance for 1 to 3 years.

One of the procedures that can be used in accelerated orthodontic treatment is a minor oral surgery that involves removing a small part of the bone around the tooth sockets. As a result, teeth will move quickly through a weakened bone. This procedure allows for a reduction in the total time needed for the course of orthodontic treatment, which is two to three times. Another surgical procedure that can be involved in accelerated orthodontic treatment is artificially creating minor trauma to the bone and gums, thus promoting bone growth and quicker teeth alignment. 

A noninvasive solution for accelerated braces treatment is using micro-pulses to prompt bone growth and faster tooth alignment. Often, patients can wear a particular device for 20 minutes a day.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are practically the same as traditional braces, but they are affixed to the back sides of the teeth. These types of braces can help achieve great results while being discreet. However, this type of orthodontic treatment can be more expensive than traditional braces. Also, people with deep overbite or very small teeth are typically not suitable for this method of treatment.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a treatment method that is becoming increasingly popular because it is much less noticeable in the mouth than traditional braces but still can deliver excellent results. This treatment comes in the form of transparent aligners that are typically switched every two weeks. The downside of this treatment is that it might not be suitable for patients with severe and complex orthodontic issues. However, if your case is more straightforward, the treatment will most likely work well.

Another significant advantage of Invisalign, apart from aesthetics, is that it can be removed during meals and when brushing and flossing your teeth. As a result, it is much easier to maintain good oral hygiene with Invisalign than with traditional or lingual braces. Also, Invisalign might be more comfortable than metal braces because it does not have metal parts. Sometimes, these metals can rub and irritate the soft tissue in the mouth. However, it can still be uncomfortable and cause some pain until you get used to wearing it. Having some toothache and soreness for a couple of days is also unavoidable every time the trays get switched.

When choosing Invisalign as a method of treatment, you should also remember that it requires discipline and strict commitment. The fact that it can be removed at will can lead to a patient not wearing it 22 hours a day as required. As a result, the treatment might take much more time to complete or will be ineffective. 

Make an Appointment Today

Now that you have this guide on the different types of braces do not hesitate to call our office today and sign up for a consultation about braces in Tarzana. Our orthodontic specialist will evaluate your dental issues and goals and offer the most effective method and treatment plan. We are looking forward to your visit.