Types of Braces

Many of us will need to consider braces to correct tooth alignment or bite issues at some point, whether as children, teenagers, or adults. Unfortunately, most of us don’t necessarily look forward to wearing braces because of the thought of possible discomfort and how they will affect the overall appearance. However, technological advances make braces easier to use, less painful, and even less visible in many cases.

Contact our team at South Belmont Orthodontics & Oral Surgery in Belmont, NC to further discuss your options for orthodontic care with braces. We understand your concerns and strive to make every patient experience pleasant.

Our Options for Braces

At South Belmont Orthodontics & Oral Surgery, we offer both traditional metal and clear ceramic braces. Each option has unique features making them ideal for specific patients. Our friendly and professional staff can help discuss your concerns and help determine which type of braces is best for you.

Traditional Metal Braces

When most people think of braces, they think of traditional metal braces. While multiple options are now available to patients, traditional metal braces remain the most popular and effective option.

Traditional metal braces work by attaching individual brackets to each tooth, and a metal wire and rubber bands connect these brackets. Alignment takes place over time with the regular adjustment and tightening of the wires.

The average patient wears braces for approximately 18 to 24 months, depending on the issues needing to be corrected.

Some patients hesitate to get traditional braces because of the stigma stemming from their prominent visibility. Some of those concerns are understandable; however, even traditional braces change with time; they are now lighter, smaller, and more comfortable.

In addition to advances in making them lighter and less bulky, traditional braces do come with the option for colored bands. Instead of shrinking from the stigma of a metal-filled smile, patients can embrace the orthodontic appliance, styling it with colors to fit their personalities.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work the same as traditional metal braces to align crooked teeth and bite issues. The most significant difference is in visibility. The ceramic material allows your braces to blend in with your natural smile. While not invisible, the discreet nature of these brackets makes them less noticeable to others.

Ceramic braces are ideal for older teens and adult patients and those concerned about visibility and appearance in a professional setting. Although just as effective, ceramic braces are not quite as durable as metal braces, so patients need to be responsible for properly caring for their braces.

Caring For Your Braces

Whether choosing traditional metal or ceramic braces, oral hygiene care is essential and relatively the same for all types of braces. Regularly scheduled cleanings with your dentist are one of the best ways to care for your teeth during treatment effectively. Patients should also take extra care when brushing and flossing, regardless of the type of braces, as the brackets and wiring can trap food particles and create plaque buildup.

Brushing and flossing daily is essential when choosing ceramic braces to avoid discoloration. Like natural teeth, they can discolor without proper daily cleaning.