What Type of Braces Are Best for Adults?
Thanks to literature and movies, a lot of people regard braces as a coming-of-age event; but even though it may seem like teenagers are the typical recipients of orthodontic treatments, specifically braces, this form of dentistry is not exclusive to one demographic.
Anyone can receive braces; your candidacy for orthodontic treatment depends on your oral hygiene, the alignment of your teeth, and what your general dentist recommends. At the end of the day, there’s no need to feel weird or even self-conscious about getting braces as an adult – such has grown to be a far more frequent occurrence than you may think.
For more information on receiving traditional braces in Irvine, contact our local dental practice today!
Types of Braces
Advancements in dentistry have given rise to multiple kinds of braces; receiving traditional braces near you is no longer the only option available. Invisalign, which is a form of clear aligner therapy, and receiving ceramic braces as opposed to metal ones are two great choices you may want to consider.
To help you decide, we’ve further broken down the main types of braces so you can understand each of them better.
1.Traditional braces.
When you hear the word ‘braces’, the picture that probably pops into your head more often than not is that of metal braces and arch wires. Tiny elastic bands may also be incorporated into your treatment.
This method remains one of the most reliable and effective orthodontic treatments.
Adjusting to metal braces does take some time. Your mouth will be sore for a few days, and you’ll have to say away from hard and crunchy foods as well. Furthermore, they are indeed noticeable when you smile and talk.
2.Ceramic braces.
Ceramic braces are essentially identical to traditional braces but instead of metal, they incorporate ceramic into the dental framework. Ceramic is a great material because it blends in with the natural shade of your smile. As a result, they’re far less noticeable and they still offer you the same quick, reliable treatment that metal braces do.
The biggest downside is that ceramic braces are much more costly, and they can become stained.
3.Lingual braces.
One option that you may not have heard of is lingual braces. Once more, these are the same as traditional braces but instead of being placed on the exterior surface of your teeth, they’re placed on the inside of your teeth.
Lingual braces are quite difficult to clean in addition to being expensive. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for this method of treatment, so always be sure to talk to an orthodontist in Irvine before undergoing any dental work.
4.Invisalign.
No doubt you’re familiar with Invisalign. Invisalign is the most well-known form of clear aligner therapy. As the name suggests, Invisalign utilizes clear or “invisible” trays that fit over your top and bottom row of teeth. They’re made from high-grade dental plastic, which makes them comfortable and flexible.
Your Invisalign trays are removable, so you won’t have to alter your diet and it’s easier to maintain good oral hygiene. Invisalign is only available for teenagers and adults.
The Benefits of Receiving Braces
There are several advantages to having braces, regardless of the type you’re interested in receiving. That said, here are the biggest benefits provided by braces:
- Improves the overall aesthetic of your smile.
- Help prevent gum disease. Crooked teeth can create spaces for plaque and tartar to gather, leading to gum irritation and swelling. Braces straighten your teeth, thereby reducing the debris that can be trapped in your mouth.
- Stops bone erosion. Unaligned teeth are a very common cause of bone erosion; certain bacteria can penetrate your teeth and gums, reaching your jawbone. Braces ensure that your jawbone remains in good condition.
- Lowers the risk of your teeth becoming fragmented. Overcrowding can cause your teeth to grind against one another and break.
- Improves your ability to eat.
- Repairs your ability to talk.
- Boost your self-confidence, and by extension, your mental health!
To learn more about receiving braces, book a consultation with an orthodontist near you. They’ll guide you through the process from start to finish so you know what to expect. Once your customized braces or aligner trays have been fabricated, you’ll have them placed. Then, you’ll need to return to have adjustments made approximately every four to six weeks.
At the end of the day, there is no “best type of braces” for adults. It all comes down to your unique dental needs, what your orthodontist recommends, your preferences, and the cost. Every treatment has its pros and cons, so it’s a wise idea to do your research before making any sort of commitment.
Are you interested in receiving braces? At iSmiles Orthodontics in Irvine, we are here to assist you with that. Call or visit our website to schedule an appointment today!
Relevant Links:
https://www.ismilesorthodontics.com/2021/06/18/traditional-braces-vs-invisalign/
https://www.ismilesorthodontics.com/2021/05/19/the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-ceramic-braces/