What type of braces will i need

For others, the length of treatment or dietary restrictions could be the deciding factors. We all want to be able to smile with confidence and braces are often the most effective way to get there. There is a perfect orthodontic option for every patient, no matter what your age.

When going over the options with your dentist, you should talk about these factors and share which ones are your top priorities. Adults of all ages are electing to get braces later in life both to improve their looks and fix long-standing dental issues — and the trend shows no…. Learn how to floss with braces using different types of tools. Invisible braces, or clear aligners, are a great option for people looking to straighten their teeth without traditional metal braces.

This article…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Who Needs Braces? Signs you need braces Signs a child needs braces Seeking medical help Alternative treatments Summary How to know if you need braces. Signs you need braces.

How to tell if your child needs braces? When to see a dentist. Are there alternatives to braces? Read this next. Medically reviewed by Dena Westphalen, Pharm. Do Braces Hurt? How Are Braces Put On? How to Floss with Braces. In the past, braces were very bulky and noticeable. Luckily, braces today are nothing like what they were years ago. Advances in innovation and technology have made braces:.

Metal braces are most popular among children and adolescent patients. They work by applying the braces to the teeth and connecting them with a wire. The wire is tied to the braces using elastic ties, which come in an array colors to choose from. To move the teeth, the orthodontist makes adjustments to the wire at your appointments every weeks. Unlike clear aligners like Invisalign which are removable, some parents and patients love metal braces because they do not need to remind their child to wear them.

However, metal braces require care and attention and good oral hygiene is a must throughout treatment. Ceramic braces are braces made of clear, tooth colored material. They work in the same way as metal braces, but are more discreet and less visible. Ceramic braces are most popular among patients who do not think Invisalign or lingual braces are right for them, but who still want to straighten their teeth in a discreet and affordable way.

These patients tend to be esthetically-driven adolescents and adults. Compared to metal braces , ceramic braces are less noticeable and present an affordable alternative to metal braces. You should know, however, that these braces are also slightly larger than metal braces and can stain depending diet and brushing habits.

They are not for everybody, but we believe they remain a valuable tool in our orthodontic tool-bag. They too rely on braces and a wire to move the teeth. The difference between self-ligating braces compared to metal or ceramic braces is that self-ligating braces use doors or clips to hold the wire in place, rather than elastic rubber ties.