About nine in 10 people have teeth that are slightly misaligned. You don’t have to live with a misalignment, though. Instead, consider getting braces in Louisville.
You’re no longer limited to metal braces. Instead, you can consider the different types of braces available. Choosing between these different braces can help you find the one best suited for your needs.
Then, you can improve the state of your smile and start grinning with confidence. Straightening your smile could reduce your risk of oral health issues, too.
Not sure which braces to choose? Here are four tips that can help you make the right decision. Read on to learn more!
1. Understand Your Needs
First, take a moment to consider your needs and goals.
For example, are you concerned about your appearance? If you don’t want people to realize you’re straightening your teeth, consider invisible braces.
Are you concerned about costs? You’ll need to prioritize the types of braces and cost attached to each one. Your limited budget might inform your decision.
Some people are more concerned about speed. Do you have an event, such as a wedding coming up? Maybe you want to improve the appearance of your teeth as soon as possible.
Take the time to schedule a consultation appointment with your Louisville orthodontist. They’ll complete a physical exam to determine the state of your teeth.
They might realize your bite is off or your teeth are crooked. They might realize there are major gaps between your teeth, too. If your case is complicated, you might need more intensive treatment.
Once you determine your unique oral health needs, you can make a more informed decision. Keep your needs in mind as you review the types of braces available.
2. Consider Pros and Cons
Before choosing between the different types of braces, it helps to know more about them. Here are four different braces you might want to consider.
Traditional Metal Braces
Most people associate the term “braces” with traditional metal braces. These braces use brackets attached to your teeth and metal wires. The brackets and wires work together to bring your teeth closer together.
Review your oral health needs. Do you have a complex case? Your Louisville orthodontist might suggest you use traditional braces.
Traditional braces are a consistent treatment option. You can’t remove your braces without an orthodontist’s help.
If you’re forgetful, you might neglect to put Invisalign aligners back in place. With traditional braces, you won’t have to worry. Instead, you’ll receive treatment 24/7.
Meal braces are more durable than other options, too. Your braces won’t crack or get chipped.
You can even customize your braces with fun colors!
There are a few cons associated with metal braces, though. For starters, they’re very visible. You won’t have the option to hide your metal braces.
You’ll also need to consider food restrictions, too. Sticky foods could cling to your brackets. Some foods can damage your braces as well.
Otherwise, consider your comfort level. Metal wires could scratch your gums or cheeks.
You’ll need to weigh these pros and cons before making your choice.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are more discreet than traditional braces. The brackets are transparent. You can even use an off-white hue that matches your teeth.
Since ceramic braces aren’t as obvious, you might feel less self-conscious wearing them. For many people, ceramic braces also cause less irritation. They’re often more comfortable than traditional braces.
Ceramic braces offer a faster treatment than Invisalign.
It is possible to stain your ceramic braces, though. You’ll need to avoid wine, teas, and coffees to keep from staining them.
Ceramic braces are more expensive than traditional braces, too. In fact, ceramic braces can cost $1,000 or $2,000 more than metal braces. They’re usually around $4,000 to $8,000.
Metal braces are usually between $3,000 to $6,000. Invisalign aligners are about $3,000 to $8,000 in comparison. The price can vary based on the complexity of your case.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are almost identical to traditional metal braces. The brackets and wires are placed on the inside of your teeth, though.
Lingual braces could offer more discretion than traditional braces. They’re usually invisible when you’re smiling.
However, these braces are often more difficult to clean. They’re also more expensive. Lingual braces can cause more discomfort, too.
Lingual braces aren’t ideal for everyone. Make sure to consult a Louisville orthodontist before choosing the braces that are right for you. They can review the different types of braces that are best for your unique case.
Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are plastic trays that guide your teeth into the proper position. These trays are transparent and practically invisible against your teeth. The treatment is entirely metal-free.
You’ll need to wear your clear aligners for 18 to 22 hours a day. You can take your aligners out to eat, meaning you won’t deal with food restrictions. However, you’ll need to brush, floss, and replace your aligners right away.
You’ll also need to clean your aligners regularly.
Aligners are ideal if you’re concerned about your appearance and discretion. However, they might not help patients with complex orthodontic issues.
Some patients lose their aligners as well.
3. Find a Good Louisville Orthodontist
Once you’ve reviewed the different types of braces, look into getting braces in Louisville. Find an experienced orthodontist that can recommend the best treatment based on your needs.
During your consultation appointment, consider:
- What braces they recommend and why
- What brands they offer
- Whether or not they offer the latest technology
- How much experience the doctor has
- What special training or recognition they’ve received
- If they offer accelerated orthodontics
Make sure your orthodontist is experienced and knowledgeable. They should help you develop a customized treatment plan.
4. Start Your Treatment
Once you’ve reviewed the different types of braces, you can start treatment! Consider your orthodontist’s recommendation and choose the braces that are best for you. Consider the cost of braces as you make your choice as well.
Your orthodontist can steer you in the right direction if you need further help.
Straighter Smiles: 4 Tips For Choosing the Right Braces in Louisville
Ready to improve the state of your smile? Consider getting braces in Louisville. With these tips, you can find the best braces based on your unique needs.
Ready to schedule your consultation appointment? We’re happy to help.
Schedule a consultation at one of our locations today!