There Are Many Options For You To Fit Your Needs
When most people hear the term traditional braces, they call to mind images of the exact same thing: a series of brackets and wires that are installed in a patient's mouth that, over time, gently "move" the teeth into the desired position. It's a situation that we're all familiar with and, indeed, the chances that you've known someone in your life who wore them are high.
But what a lot of people don't realize is that traditional braces technology has come a long way in recent years and today, there are more options than ever available to you when it comes to getting the dental support you need when you need it the most.
How Do Braces Work?
Regardless of the specific type of braces you choose (you'll find more detail on each option below), braces work by constantly putting a small amount of pressure on your teeth. This slowly "encourages" them to move into the correct position.
Depending on the nature of the brackets and wires, this can do everything from simply straightening your teeth to correcting more advanced issues like an overbite or underbite.
Types of Braces Available
As stated, there are a few different types of braces available for you to choose from, depending on your needs. If you're having a hard time determining which type of braces are right for you, don't worry — we'll go over all of this with you during your initial free consultation to help you make the best and most informed decision possible for your health.
Traditional Metal Braces
The kind that most people are familiar with. These use steel brackets that are installed on the teeth that, in cooperation with a wire that connects those brackets together, correct orthodontic issues that a patient is experiencing.
Ceramic Braces
Teeth-like in color. Because of that small distinction, however, they're nearly invisible — so they are a more discreet option than traditional metal braces.
Lingual Braces
Very similar to metal braces but are constructed out of high-grade stainless steel material. The key difference, however, is that lingual braces are installed on the BACKS of the teeth instead of the front— thus making them every bit as effective as their traditional counterpart, but far more discreet and harder to spot at the same time.
Who Is Eligible For Braces?
In no uncertain terms, absolutely everyone can be a viable candidate for braces— regardless of the types of dental issues they're experiencing or even how old they are. There's a common misconception that braces are only really effective if you get them when you're young. While braces for children are certainly very popular, approximately 27% of all patients are actually adults. Dental issues can develop at any age and you've never "grown out" of your ability to pursue this type of treatment.
Overall, people may want to get braces if their teeth are crowded or crooked, for example. If you're constantly biting the sides of your cheek while eating or hitting the roof of your mouth, you would also be a viable candidate. Needing to breathe through your mouth on a regular basis is also a sign that braces may be in your future.