People often associate braces exclusively with teenagers, but orthodontic treatment is not age restricted. Here at Williams Orthodontics in Evergreen and Conifer, CO, we believe that a perfect smile is deserved at any age. We also understand that the key to an effective treatment plan is information. Therefore, we’ve crafted this detailed guide on different types of braces, highlighting their pros and cons, to help potential patients make informed decisions. After all, your perfect smile is our top priority.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common type of braces, and they have seen many improvements over the years.
Pros:
Cost-effective: Traditional braces typically have the lowest cost compared to other types.
Effective: They can handle severe alignment cases efficiently.
Colorful: The ligatures (tiny elastics that hold the wire on the brackets) come in various colors which kids in particular really enjoy.
Cons:
Visibility: They are the most noticeable among other options.
Discomfort: Braces require more patience to get used to initially. The braces can rub the lips and cheeks causing irritation until the tissues toughen up.
Oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing require more time and attention.
Foods: Hard food can damage or break braces so some foods may need to be avoided or altered when eating like cutting an apple into pieces to eat it.
Clear Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are tooth colored to blend with your teeth, making them less noticeable. Otherwise, they function similarly to metal braces.
Pros:
Aesthetic: The braces are less noticeable due to their tooth-colored or clear brackets.
Efficient: They work just as effectively as metal braces.
Cons:
Higher Cost: Ceramic braces tend to be slightly more expensive than their metal counterparts.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, like Invisalign and OrthoFX, consist of a series of custom-made transparent plastic trays that shift your teeth over time.
Pros:
Invisible: Almost impossible to see while placed on teeth.
Removable: Patients can remove them while eating, brushing, or flossing.
Comfort: No brackets or wires mean less chance of rubbing and irritation.
Cons:
Limited Treatment: May not work for severe alignment issues.
Compliance: Success with clear aligners requires the patient’s compliance and discipline of wearing them the recommended hours per day since they can be removed.
Cost: Clear aligners are typically more expensive due to the lab bill for the aligners.
Final Thoughts
If you need assistance selecting among the different braces types, we at Williams Orthodontics stand ready to help. Our team of orthodontic experts in Evergreen and Conifer, CO offers free consultations to discuss your treatment goals. Remember, at Williams Orthodontics, your smile is our specialty.
Read reviews and get directions at our Williams Orthodontics Google Business Profile. Then book an appointment today.
