Five Basic Types Of Braces Available: Which To Get And Why?

Dental Braces are dental tools that treat abnormalities with teeth, such as crowding, crooked teeth, and out-of-alignment teeth. Teenagers commonly wear dental braces; however, they can also be worn by adults. Dental braces gradually straighten and align the teeth to have a normal bite as they are worn. Some people wear dental braces to straighten their teeth.

If there are crooked teeth and a misaligned bite (an under-bite or over-bite), dental braces and retainers, custom-made, removable, or fixed equipment that cover the outside of your teeth and assist in keeping them in place are two options for straightening teeth. Learn how to determine if there is an overbite.

Many regular dentists may do basic tooth alignment and handle other dental abnormalities, but orthodontists fix dental problems. An orthodontist is specialized in straightening teeth and correcting misaligned bites and jaw problems.

What is the best age to get braces?

Braces are best placed between ages 10 and 14 when the mouth and head are still developing, and the teeth are more sensitive to straightening. Braces are not only for children but also teenagers and adults as well.

Braces Types

Braces are the most common method for children/ teenagers to straighten their teeth and correct mismatched bites. However, they are not the gleaming metal mouthfuls of the past. There are a lot more possibilities now.

If braces are the best option, a dentist or orthodontist will create a custom appliance. Bands, wires, and other fixed or removable correction equipment may be used in the braces. Unfortunately, there is not a single method that works for everyone.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are also the traditional type of braces, they are the most common type available worldwide, and it has been around for nearly 100 years. They include brackets attached to the front of the teeth, bands that fit around each tooth, and flexible wires or archwires that hold the brackets or bands together. These bands create pressure to help straighten and align the teeth. This type of brace is typically the least expensive option while being very effective, and they are very noticeable; Treatment time is usually the shortest with conventional braces.

Why Consider Metal Braces;

• It is efficient and versatile.
• It does not change speech.
• It is very affordable
• It is the most common type of braces.
• These braces can be obtained immediately.
• It is fun to have it in different colours.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar in size and shape to typical metal braces, but they are made of a ceramic substance that blends in with the natural colour of the teeth, making them less visible. Patients who do not think Invisalign or lingual braces are suited for them but still want to straighten their teeth discreetly and economically prefer ceramic dental braces.

Because ceramic braces are discrete, they can conceal teeth straightening. Therefore, it is more significant than metal braces.

Why Consider Ceramic Braces?

• It is discreet
• It is very affordable.
• It is attractive.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces resemble standard metal braces, but instead of elastic bands, clips are used to maintain the brace’s wire in place. As a result, the braces have less friction, and it is usually more accessible for the person to keep the braces and teeth clean.

Why Consider Self-Ligating Braces?

• If sensitive to discomfort, these braces are perfect.
• It is quick to apply.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are applied behind the teeth. These braces have brackets on the backs of the teeth that face the tongue. Lingual braces are more difficult to notice. In addition, this kind of braces requires a certain level of orthodontics training.

Lingual braces are well suited for adults who do not want their braces to be noticeable.

WHY CONSIDER LINGUAL BRACES

• If the intention is to hide the braces, lingual braces are a good option because it is the least noticeable.
• It facilitates complete customization to the particular desired teeth.
• It is very efficient and versatile.

Clear Aligner Braces

They are invincible braces; These are clear plastic trays that fit snugly onto the teeth. They use pressure to gently move the teeth into the correct positions and straighten the smile. These braces can be removed when it is time to perform oral hygiene, but they should be worn for at least 22 hours daily to work.

Why Consider Clear Aligner Braces?

It is removable.

It is clear and transparent

Allows for easier brushing and flossing

Faster for some limited treatment

Benefits of Braces

• Improves speech; Braces can correct misalignment and possibly assist in overcoming chronic speech difficulties.
• Improves oral health: Braces can help maintain good oral hygiene and avoid cavities and periodontal disease. Cavities can cause the bone that holds the teeth to deteriorate over time.
• Prevents jawbone erosion: Jawbone erosion and bone loss can occur due to misaligned teeth. When bacteria begin to eat away at the bones, this happens. Braces straighten teeth and protect the jawbone.
• It helps to boost confidence: While braces are vital for health, they can also help feel more confident. Smiling will be difficult with crooked teeth. Low self-esteem and anxiety can result as a result of this. Braces can also help move the teeth into a better position, making the jaws and lips proportionate to the face.

Foods to Avoid When Wearing Braces

Braces are very delicate; breaking part of the appliance can result in the teeth moving in the wrong direction, and longer treatment, some food to avoid are;

• Popcorn
• Chewing gum
• Nuts like almond, groundnut, and tiger nut.
• Ice
• Hard candy
• Gummies
• Food like apples, corn, and carrots is hard to bite.