Back in the early days of orthodontics, there really weren’t many options available to straighten the teeth other than traditional metal braces. So, if you were sensitive about being called “metal mouth,” then you just went on without them until someone called you “snaggle tooth,” and then you got them.
Today there are more options available, and some do very well at hiding the fact that you are wearing a dental appliance. Here is the braces breakdown.
Traditional Braces
The most common types of braces are still the traditional kind. Usually made of stainless steel (although you can get them in clear porcelain, titanium, gold-plated, etc.), they consist of a metal bracket fastened to the front of the teeth, with elastic bands holding a wire onto the bracket. Gradual tightening of the wire every four to six weeks brings the teeth into alignment in the space of one to three years.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are essentially the same thing as traditional braces although the brackets are placed on the internal or backside of the tooth where they cannot be seen.
Damon Braces
Damon braces are a less noticeable type of traditional brace that removes the need for elastic banding to hold the wire. The effect is a more streamline-looking single wire that uses a slide mechanism.
Clear Aligners
Aligners are not for complex cases, but this type has no metal or wires and is great for minor adjustment. They are custom-made, clear plastic molds of your teeth that are adjusted and replaced every two weeks. You can remove them to eat, and they are practically invisible when worn. Aligners are the choice of people who do not want anyone to notice they are getting their teeth straightened.
If you’d like more education about the different types of braces and aligners, call Dr. Shabbir Adenwalla and Inayat Ashai and our helpful team at A&A Orthodontics. Phone: , or come by our office in Avon, Sandusky and Wadsworth, Ohio.
