05/22/2016
Article by Dr. Leaver & Dr. Gardner
There is much to be said for modern technological development in any industry. But in the way of orthodontics, it has given many alternatives for better oral orthodontic treatments, to better tailor the needs and final results of individual patients. With so many options to choose from, you can make informed decisions with your orthodontist on which path is best suited for your circumstances and final results.
Traditional braces, or metal braces, are comprised of metal brackets and wires that have been around for decades. The good news, as time marches on, so does the evolution of even traditional braces. With a more modern approach, the metal brackets are far less noticeable as they are now smaller. From generations past, the older metal braces were rightly so referred to as “metal mouth”, but now, the sleeker and more modest approach is used to construct the smaller brackets. Additionally, the traditional braces can benefit from the heat-activated archwires. The natural body heat produced can expedite the process of moving the teeth, and with far less pain the original metal braces.
Pros to Traditional Metal Braces:
• More affordable.
• Freedom to utilize colored bands to express individuality.
Cons to Traditional Metal Braces:
o More obvious approach to treatment.
Ceramic braces are designed the same as traditional braces. However, the difference is that the brackets are ceramic, that way they can be the same color as the tooth to make the braces treatment more subtle and less noticeable. In some cases, the wire is also tooth colored for a more incognito approach.
Pros to Ceramic Braces:
• Less apparent.
• Requires less treatment time than other means.
Cons to Ceramic Braces:
o More expensive than traditional braces.
o Ceramic is easily stained if improperly cared for.
Lingual braces are ideally the same concept as traditional braces, for a more inconspicuous approach, the metal brackets are custom fitted to be placed behind the teeth.
Pros to Lingual Braces:
• Virtually invisible from the outside.
Cons to Lingual Braces:
o Difficult to clean.
o More pricy.
o Not compatible for severe cases.
o More discomfort than traditional braces.
o Adjustments take more time due to the difficult reach.
Invisalign are clear, plastic, custom-made mouth guards that consist of a series of 18-30 aligners that are exchanged every two weeks.
Pros of Invisalign Braces:
• Nearly invisible.
• Patients can eat and drink what they want.
• Patients have better access to teeth, cleaning them more thoroughly with daily oral hygiene habits.
Cons of Invisalign Braces:
o Are not compatible for all cases.
o Not available for children.
o Treatment is often extended.
With a wide range of selections, finding the right orthodontic braces option right for you can feel a bit overwhelming. With Leaver & Gardner Orthodontics, our passion is our orthodontic care, comfort and overall results to all of our patients. With all the facts regarding your cases and other factors, we can happily find the best solution for you and your desired results. Call us today to schedule your orthodontic appointment!
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