Having great teeth is a lifelong dream for many, and today, many can achieve it through the help of braces! Braces not only help to make your teeth and smile look better but can also help you with your health. Teeth and jaw misalignment, although natural, can cause problems in your life. Underbites, overbites, large gaps, and crooked teeth can all be remedied with braces. Fixing these issues is important and can drastically improve your quality of life and self-confidence.

Whether you’re looking to fix up your smile, or you’re curious to learn more about dental realignment, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about the different types of braces you can choose from. Read up on these 4 different categories, and find the best option for you or your child.

Invisible braces

Invisible braces are definitely one of the more newer and popular options for braces. Invisible braces or aligners, often referred to as Invisalign, offer a more modern approach to dentistry, without the use of braces. To straighten one’s teeth, the patient wears a series of custom plastic aligners for about two weeks at a time. After two weeks, the patient switches to a tighter aligner, which gradually moves the teeth into place. 

These braces are practically invisible, comfortable, and easy to put on and take off, making them a popular choice. You can visit this website to learn more about invisible braces, what they’re made from and their many benefits. If you’re looking for an easier updated version of braces for you or your child, look no further than this model.

Metal braces

Where clear plastic braces are easy and comfortable, they don’t always fare as well as other models. Metal braces are the classic teeth realignment device that has been in use for ages. This traditional style of braces is made from high-quality, stainless steel and is durable and effective. 

With metal braces, the patient needs to wear an arch metal wire, attached to the front of the teeth. The wire shape and placement are customized and tightened to set the teeth in place. The disadvantage of metal braces is that they are more noticeable, less comfortable, and need a more rigid cleaning regimen. If damaged, the braces can dismantle and cause harm to the inside of the mouth if the wires get loose. 

Ceramic braces

Another popular type of less visible braces option is ceramic braces. This model combines the structure and design of classic metal braces, with the style and invisibility of clear braces. This model uses a tooth-colored ceramic instead of metal wires and fixtures. 

Like with metal braces, you can customize the color of the ceramic to make them blend in or stand out as much as you like. Although they are more effective at realigning your teeth, they are often more expensive than other models. The rigidness of the material also makes them less durable than metal braces. Ceramic braces have become popular with adults as a more discrete version of regular, metal braces.

 

Lingual braces

Last but not least, the final popular type of braces is lingual braces also known as inside braces. They are different from the others in that they are not visible from the outside. Lingual braces are customized and designed to fit the inside of the teeth and pull them together instead of pushing them. 

Since they can’t be seen from the outside at all, these braces are popular with both children and adults. While they may be the most discrete option, they are also the most complicated to set up. Appointments for lingual braces can often take longer and may need to happen more frequently. Because of the placement. Lingual braces may also affect speech in some patients. 

So there you have it! With this comprehensive look at the 4 main braces types, you’re ready to make the most informed decision! When it comes to braces, invisible braces or aligners are by far the most popular. Although cheaper, easier to use, and more discrete, these aligners are not the most effective. Traditional metal braces come in many shapes and sizes and are effective in straightening teeth. Although less discrete and more expensive, they are more durable and effective.

If you want to get the best of both worlds, for a higher price, you can opt for ceramic braces instead. While more discrete and comfortable, they are more expensive and the least durable. Last but not least, if you want a different approach, go for lingual braces that are ultra discrete but the most complicated to put on. Now that you’re all caught up, mull it over, and pick out your child’s perfect braces!