According to a survey carried out by the American Association of Orthodontists, approximately 4 million people wear braces in the United States. Most orthodontists recommend braces to patients who want to improve the condition of their teeth. Depending on the patient’s age, the orthodontist may offer different treatment solutions.
For instance, adults may need to wear braces for a more extended period compared to teenagers. They also require to put on braces for longer as their teeth are done growing. Therefore, for the best suitable adult braces, consult an orthodontist near you.
Your orthodontist can explain to you the particular type of adult braces that would work for you. Given the wide selection of adult braces available, you need to get one customized to your needs. This article provides you with an ultimate guide on the different types of adult braces.
1. Traditional Braces
If your teeth are misaligned, your orthodontist will likely recommend adult braces. A common type of braces for adults would be conventional braces. These braces are often the fastest way of moving teeth into their ideal location.
Traditional braces, also known as metal braces, have two primary components consisting of the brackets and wire. The metal bracket goes on the teeth and the bendable metal wire threads through the brackets. Pressure enforced by the metal wire ultimately moves the teeth.
With the emergence of new technology, brackets are smaller and less noticeable. You can also have modern brackets modified to your preference by choosing the color of the rubber bands around each bracket.
2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic Braces resemble traditional braces in size and shape. However, they differ in construction as ceramic braces have transparent material that blends well with the natural color of your teeth. Most adults prefer clear braces because the ceramic material is similar to the color and texture of teeth.
Ceramic adult braces are a comfortable, enjoyable, and discreet solution for dental realignment. They provide the right balance between cost, speed, and appearance. If you are looking for less noticeable adult braces, this is an excellent option for you.
Since the ceramic material is transparent and porous, the highest level of oral hygiene must be maintained. Just like real teeth, ceramic braces require you to follow a cleaning schedule. You can book an appointment with your orthodontist to get the right fitting for your ceramic braces.
3. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the same as the traditional metal braces, except they go on the backside of your teeth. They straighten your teeth from the inside. Lingual braces are efficient when dealing with compound movements such as correcting rotations, closing extraction spaces, or changing the height of your teeth.
To gradually shift your teeth, lingual braces use brackets and wires. The brackets of lingual adult braces face inwards and are hardly noticeable when smiling. Additionally, the fittings can be tailor-made to match the shape of your teeth.
Since lingual braces are inconspicuous, they are popular among adults in professions such as modeling, acting, and singing. When looking for discreet adult braces, you can opt for lingual braces.
4. Invisalign
Invisalign is one of the most effective adult braces for straightening teeth using clear aligners. It consists of a series of transparent plastic aligners fitted to your liking.
If you settle for invisible braces, your orthodontist will scan your mouth to create a 3D image of your teeth. The aligners are then fabricated and availed to you after your initial consultation.
Your treatment plan will involve a series of aligners, which you will change every one to two weeks. For your orthodontist to gauge your progress, you will need to go for a check-up every six weeks. Adult treatment for Invisalign can take twelve to eighteen months.
Final Thoughts
Proper orthodontic care can help you gain the confidence you need for everyday life. You can use a regular toothbrush to keep your braces shiny and clean. Among the different kinds of adult braces your orthodontist recommends, you ought to stick with the one you are most comfortable using.