TOP ALTERNATIVES TO METAL BRACES
WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVE ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS TO BRACES
Straight, aligned teeth are aesthetically pleasing. Many people are concerned about their appearance, with Business Insider finding that people with an aesthetically pleasing smile exudes self-confidence, get better jobs, and at the end of the day, are more successful. Traditional metal braces have long been a popular solution for achieving this goal, but they are not the only option available. There are alternatives to braces available to individuals looking to straighten their teeth. Whether you are looking for a discreet option or a more efficient treatment, your dentist can help you determine the best option for your specific needs and goals. At Woodbourne Dental, we offer a comprehensive range of dental treatments, including orthodontic options, to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. The four alternatives to metal braces are clear aligners, lingual braces, self-ligating braces, and retainers.
THE DIFFERENT ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL BRACES
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses custom-made, clear plastic trays to straighten teeth. They are virtually invisible, making them the most popular alternative for adults and people looking for a discreet alternative. The trays are made from a mould of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum comfort. It fixes anything from minor overbites and underbites to serious malocclusions, which are teeth that are not aligned properly. Clear aligners are removable, allowing you to eat, drink, and brush your teeth as you normally would.
Lingual Braces
Similar to conventional metal braces, lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth, where they are almost undetectable. They use the same technology as traditional braces, but the brackets and wires are placed on the inside of the teeth instead of the front. This makes them an excellent option for individuals looking for a discreet alternative. The downside is that these braces are harder to clean due to their positioning, and are typically not suitable for people with an overbite or people with small teeth.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are a type of metal brace that uses a clip instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place. This allows for faster and more efficient treatment, reducing the amount of time you need to wear braces. Self-ligating braces are also less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
Retainers
Retainers are a type of orthodontic treatment that can be used to maintain the results achieved from braces or clear aligners. They are custom-made to fit your teeth, and they are worn at night to keep your teeth in their new position. Retainers can also be used to treat minor orthodontic issues, such as correcting a slight overbite or underbite. The removable device is used to correctly position teeth before or after treatment with braces. They can be used to close a very slight gap between your teeth, fix malocclusion, and minor overcrowding.