Braces & Orthodontics
Why Get Braces in the First Place?
As you’re researching the different types of orthodontic treatments available to you, you may wonder if you or your child even need it in the first place. Although straight teeth can do wonders for one’s self-esteem, there are also several dental care reasons why you should consider getting orthodontics.
Generally speaking, those with shifting or crooked teeth, gaps, or incorrect bites (e.g. malocclusions) should consider getting braces to improve their oral health. Straight teeth are not only more comfortable but are also much easier to clean.
When teeth are not in the proper position, they create additional nooks and crannies for food particles and bacteria to accumulate. Bacteria can then build up in these hard-to-reach places, increasing the potential for cavities and even tooth decay. Incorrect bites can also cause additional pressure on the upper and lower jaws. Over time, this can increase the likelihood of chipped teeth and jaw pain.
Kentucky’s Premier Orthodontists
When people think of orthodontic treatment, they often think of straightening their smile for a better appearance but the benefits of braces go far beyond this. Orthodontics, like braces, can do much more than simply straighten the teeth — they can also make a big impact on one’s oral health. Schedule a Free ConsultationWhat type of orthodontic
treatment is best?
When you first think of braces, you probably think of shiny wires and metal brackets. But this isn’t your only option anymore. There are a few different types of braces available to ensure you have an option that fits your lifestyle.
Traditional Metal Braces
This is what you’re probably picturing when you think of braces. Stainless steel brackets are cemented onto each individual tooth with bonding material and linked together with metal wires. This puts just the right amount of pressure on the teeth, causing them to shift into the right position.
The wire is held in place by putting colorful elastics on each bracket. To correct a bite, clear rubber bands are often used towards the back of the mouth and extend from a bracket on an upper tooth to one on a bottom tooth.
These are the least subtle types of braces. However, they are also the most common, especially with kids and teenagers. They are also more affordable than other options, making these the best choice for anyone who is on a budget or doesn’t mind wearing braces (such as children).
Ceramic
Ceramic braces use the exact same method to straighten teeth like traditional braces, but the brackets are made from a clear or tooth-colored ceramic material instead of metal. A dentist or orthodontist will use tooth-colored wires and clear elastics to help make these as invisible as possible.
They are, however, more expensive than wire braces. But these are a good option for anyone who does not want to wear traditional wire braces, such as adults.
Invisalign
The most unique type of braces available is Invisalign. Unlike the other options above, there are no brackets, wires, or metal bands with Invisalign. Instead, it uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten teeth.
These are removable and should be taken out daily as you eat and clean your teeth. While this may not be a problem at home, it can be inconvenient if you eat out a lot as you’ll have to remember to bring a case to store them in as you’re eating.
Invisalign may be the right choice for you if you’re looking for a subtle solution and like the flexibility of taking them out for pictures or dinner dates.
Damon
Damon braces look similar to traditional braces. There are still brackets on each tooth and a wire linking the brackets together. However, traditional braces use elastics to hold the wire in place whereas Damon braces have a special slide mechanism that grasps the wire. This means you will not need colorful elastics on each tooth, so they are a little subtler.
Damon braces are also self-ligating and can adjust teeth on their own. Not only does this mean you’ll require fewer visits, but it also works faster.
This is the perfect option for anyone living a busy life who has trouble finding time to attend orthodontic appointments. Since it works faster than traditional braces, it’s also good for those who want their braces off as soon as possible.
Traditional Metal Braces
This is what you’re probably picturing when you think of braces. Stainless steel brackets are cemented onto each individual tooth with bonding material and linked together with metal wires. This puts just the right amount of pressure on the teeth, causing them to shift into the right position.
The wire is held in place by putting colorful elastics on each bracket. To correct a bite, clear rubber bands are often used towards the back of the mouth and extend from a bracket on an upper tooth to one on a bottom tooth.
These are the least subtle types of braces. However, they are also the most common, especially with kids and teenagers. They are also more affordable than other options, making these the best choice for anyone who is on a budget or doesn’t mind wearing braces (such as children).
Ceramic
Ceramic braces use the exact same method to straighten teeth like traditional braces, but the brackets are made from a clear or tooth-colored ceramic material instead of metal. A dentist or orthodontist will use tooth-colored wires and clear elastics to help make these as invisible as possible.
They are, however, more expensive than wire braces. But these are a good option for anyone who does not want to wear traditional wire braces, such as adults.
Invisalign
The most unique type of braces available is Invisalign. Unlike the other options above, there are no brackets, wires, or metal bands with Invisalign. Instead, it uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten teeth.
These are removable and should be taken out daily as you eat and clean your teeth. While this may not be a problem at home, it can be inconvenient if you eat out a lot as you’ll have to remember to bring a case to store them in as you’re eating.
Invisalign may be the right choice for you if you’re looking for a subtle solution and like the flexibility of taking them out for pictures or dinner dates.
Damon
Damon braces look similar to traditional braces. There are still brackets on each tooth and a wire linking the brackets together. However, traditional braces use elastics to hold the wire in place whereas Damon braces have a special slide mechanism that grasps the wire. This means you will not need colorful elastics on each tooth, so they are a little subtler.
Damon braces are also self-ligating and can adjust teeth on their own. Not only does this mean you’ll require fewer visits, but it also works faster.
This is the perfect option for anyone living a busy life who has trouble finding time to attend orthodontic appointments. Since it works faster than traditional braces, it’s also good for those who want their braces off as soon as possible.
Braces for Kids
Phase One OrthodonticsInterested in learning about early orthodontics for kids?