Are you ready to start your journey toward a straighter and healthier smile? There is no better time than the present to straighten your teeth in Bozeman, Montana! What type of orthodontic treatment is best for you or your child? We’re here to talk about your braces option so you can make the right decision about your oral health.
Read on to learn more.
Traditional Metal Braces
When you think of orthodontic treatment options, the first thing that likely comes to mind is traditional metal braces. Many people fear this orthodontic option, but there’s a reason that it’s the most popular.
Traditional metal braces start with metal brackets that are attached to each tooth. The orthodontist will then affix a wire to the brackets and tighten it as necessary to bring teeth to their ideal positions.
Orthodontic visits will include further tightening until the process is complete.
Pros of Traditional Braces
So why do so many people choose traditional braces?
First, the cost. Most of the time, traditional braces are the most affordable option (though this will depend on your specific situation). They often work more quickly than other popular options like clear aligners.
Traditional braces are difficult to damage and impossible to lose. This makes them appealing to parents with children. Once the braces are in place, they’re safe until they’re ready to come off.
While adults may not prefer traditional braces, they’re great for children and teenagers. Many kids and teens have braces, so metal braces won’t stand out in school. Kids can also add fun rubber bands to customize their braces.
Traditional braces can solve almost any orthodontic problem.
Cons of Traditional Braces
So why wouldn’t someone want traditional braces?
While all orthodontic apparatuses can cause discomfort, metal braces may be the least comfortable due to the metal. Brackets and wires can cause discomfort to the gums and sides of the mouth at first.
Your diet will be limited to traditional braces. It’s best to avoid sticky foods.
Braces can make it more difficult for children to maintain good oral hygiene. You may need to teach your child how to brush their teeth with braces.
For adults who need braces, traditional metal braces may be “embarrassing.” There’s nothing wrong or unusual about getting braces as an adult, but because they’re less common amongst adults, you may feel as though you stand out.
Ceramic Braces
So what about ceramic braces?
Ceramic braces are almost identical to traditional braces. They still use brackets, but instead of metal, the brackets are made of ceramic that blends into the natural color of the teeth.
A metal wire goes around those brackets. You may be able to get the wire in a tooth color, but it’s often silver (just like with traditional braces).
These braces are less visible than traditional braces.
Pros of Ceramic Braces
As we mentioned, these braces aren’t as obvious as traditional metal braces. Many people refer to them as “invisible” braces. They’re difficult to notice from a distance, in photos and videos, and even when at a normal talking distance.
Like traditional braces, ceramic braces are impossible for a child to remove on their own so they’ll stay in place for the duration of treatment. The ceramic may also be more comfortable than the metal from traditional braces, but this is case-by-case.
Ceramic braces are able to solve all of the orthodontic issues that traditional metal braces can solve.
Cons of Ceramic Braces
While ceramic braces do have some benefits over traditional metal braces, they’re still not a perfect solution for everyone.
Ceramic braces aren’t truly invisible. Someone who feels insecure about braces in general may still feel insecure with ceramic braces.
Like traditional braces, you will have to change your diet and dental hygiene routine until the process is complete. For some people, this is a deterrent.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners are more popular than ever in 2021, and the trend is set to continue. The most popular brand of clear aligners (and the brand that we recommend to patients) is Invisalign.
Invisalign is the most “invisible” of the orthodontic options. Instead of brackets and wires, you’ll have tooth-colored attachments and plastic trays that will move your teeth over time.
You’ll change your trays every one to two weeks (unless otherwise instructed) until your teeth are perfect.
Pros of Clear Aligners
The biggest benefit of clear aligners is that they’re almost undetectable.
Contrary to popular belief, you can still see Invisalign aligners (especially if you have brackets and rubber bands). That said, no one will notice them in photos and some people may not even notice them up close.
You don’t have to change your diet when you have clear aligners. You can eat everything that you’d normally eat as long as you remove the aligners first.
Aligners can still be uncomfortable for the first few days of use, but they are far more comfortable than traditional braces.
Cons of Clear Aligners
While clear aligners boast many benefits, they’re not perfect.
While you can eat anything that you want while you’re going through treatment, you might find it troublesome to get enough food in during the day unless you augment your schedule. You need to wear your aligners for up to 22 hours per day, giving you a small window of time to eat.
Children may struggle with clear aligners, especially if they’re in school. It’s easy to lose or accidentally throw away clear aligners if you’re not paying attention.
You will have to brush your teeth after every meal when you wear clear aligners (though this can be a pro as well!).
Which Braces Option Will You Choose?
There are so many orthodontic treatment options to choose from, but these are the three most popular for adults and children alike. Which one is right for you?
Overall, we love all of them. If you’re unsure, talk to your local Bozeman orthodontic professional to determine the best option for your situation.
Are you ready to get a straight and healthy smile? At Bozeman Smiles, we want to give you the superstar smile of your dreams. Contact us to book your consultation today!