Depending on your age, lifestyle, and personal preferences, there is usually an orthodontic method that suits you more than others. At InStyle Orthodontics, we practice the top three most effective and commonly used methods for aligning your teeth. If you’re interested in learning about traditional braces or alternatives to braces, we’ve got you covered!
At Ocean Orthodontics, we offer the tried and true metal braces, but we also offer other alternatives to the traditional bracket look. Here are the different types of braces we offer:
Conventional metal braces are competitively the most fast and effective way to straighten out your teeth. Metal braces are an ideal orthodontic treatment for correcting your smile aesthetically but also for improving the overall function of your mouth and jaw. Conventional metal braces are attached to the front of your teeth and connected via wires. The braces gradually apply pressure to the teeth and eventually guide them into the desired placement; aligning your teeth as well as your jaw. This not only makes your smile look more idealistic, but it also helps relieve pressure on your teeth and jaw which improves your mobility and can also improve your speaking and eating abilities.
If your teeth need extra pressure to move, we can use several different methods to increase the movement such as elastic bands, expanders, and functional appliances. These devices can encourage the entire treatment process to be sped up, meaning that you wear the braces for less time!
Metal braces have a long history in orthodontics, it is a technology that was created in the 18th century and because they are so effective, we continue to use them today! However since then, metal braces have been redesigned many times to make them more simple and wearable. Our newest conventional metal braces are the smallest and lightest they’ve ever been, meaning they’re also more comfortable. Conventional braces continue to be the most popular orthodontic aligner choice for kids and teenagers.
Cosmetic braces are similar to metal brackets but are a discreet alternative to traditional braces. Our cosmetic braces are made with brackets and wires onto the front of the teeth just like traditional braces however, they are made to match the colour of your teeth. This is a great option for teenagers and adult patients who feel self-conscious about fixing their teeth. The only downside is that cosmetic braces require a little extra TLC than conventional metal braces because they’re made from ceramic material making them more fragile. Ceramic braces are also white/tooth coloured which makes them more susceptible to food and drink staining, just like natural teeth. But with a good oral care routine, cosmetic braces can be just as effective as traditional braces.
Invisalign is becoming one of the most popular alternatives to braces for teenagers and adults. Invisalign is a newer technology for orthodontic aligners. It is a virtually invisible appliance which involves a series of replaceable, removable plastic aligners. This is a very lowkey and lifestyle friendly method to straightening out your teeth because it will be hard for others to tell that you’re wearing Invisalign plus they are easily removable for brushing your teeth, eating, etc.
The aligners are custom made to fit perfectly on your teeth and are replaced with new ones every two weeks. The aligners are made from 3D technology which will also be able to show you exactly how your teeth will move progressively with the treatment. When the aligners are worn for the prescribed amount of time per day, this treatment can be just as effective as traditional braces, but it is common for the Invisalign treatment to take a little longer.
If you would like to learn more about these different types of braces/alternatives to braces, contact us at InStyle Orthodontics. If you’re interested in aligning your teeth, book a consultation with us and we’ll create the best treatment plan for you.
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