What are the different types of Braces?

When you think of braces, the stereotypical image that comes to mind is a teenager with metal brackets and wires on their teeth. But braces come in many different shapes and sizes, and there are options available for adults and even young children. So what are the different types of braces? And which one is right for you? Read on to find out.

Here are the four most popular kinds of braces that are currently on the market

1. Colourful Braces/Metal Braces

Orthodontic braces treatments can go on for months, even years. Therefore, we encourage our patients to choose braces’ colours that they will be happy with and wear for an extended period.

From colours like red, pink, blue, green, and purple to grey, yellow, orange, or white, the options are virtually endless and here at HIPP Orthodontics, we have all the colours that you might possibly want.

Metal Braces are the most cost-effective and the bands come in a variety of colours which will allow you to express your personality but they are the most noticeable of all the types of braces.

2. Ceramic Braces (Aesthetic Braces)

Aesthetic braces are the same shape and size as metal braces. However, they offer patients the extra benefit of a discrete aesthetic appearance. The brackets on ceramic braces are a pearl-coloured material that blends in with the rest of the patient’s natural teeth.

Ceramic braces are most popular among working professionals and people tend to opt for ceramic braces as they are less visible and help with your confidence.

Pros of getting ceramic braces:

  • They are less visible than metal braces
  • They move faster than other clear aligners

Cons of getting ceramic braces:

  • They are more expensive than metal braces
  • They can be less durable than metal braces
  • The elastic bands could stain
  • They move slower than metal braces

3. Retainers For Teeth

Retainers are specific orthodontic devices that assist in straightening teeth and are one of many orthodontic treatment options. Retainers often get used in conjunction with braces. We usually prescribe retainers during the retention phase and reinforce the work done by traditional braces or Invisalign®.

You will have to wear your retainer for a few years after having treatment and if worn as directed it will protect the results of your smile.

Pros of wearing your retainer:

  • It is moulded to your mouth.
  • Colour can be custom-selected ahead of time
  • It is durable and difficult to damage
  • Removable and easy to clean
  • Plate adjustable over time

Cons of wearing your retainer:

  • More noticeable as the wire sits in front of the teeth
  • Plate could possibly be a little uncomfortable and cause some speech difficulties
  • Needs to be cleaned perfectly to avoid bacteria build-up
  • Could get broken, lost or damaged
  • If not worn properly teeth could shift

4. Invisalign®

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens your teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses 3-D imaging technology to determine the complete treatment plan and help your teeth get from the initial position using custom-made aligners. Aligners are generally worn for about two weeks and then replaced by the next set of aligners until your teeth reach their final position.

Invisalign is typically worn by working professionals and teenagers with particular bite problems. Add a few sentences here

Pros of Invisalign’s:

  • You can eat and drink what you want
  • They are invisible

Cons of Invisalign:

  • More expensive than other treatments
  • Takes longer to straighten teeth
  • Not suitable for all dental conditions

Braces for kids and teens

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child with any form of orthodontic/dental issues must visit their orthodontist by age 7 or 8. It will serve as a baseline as your teens continue to develop and grow their teeth.

Our braces for teens option covers teenagers’ overall treatment between 11 and 18, as many people do not have braces installed until 12. If your son or daughter shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or your family dentist has directed you to visit an orthodontist, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our practice and schedule an appointment.

Braces for adults

Adults who are seeking orthodontic care will find far more options than what they had when they were younger. As more adults grow and start to step into the professional space, they are more concerned about their appearance and keeping their teeth healthy. Orthodontic treatments for adults look to correct issues such as Open Bite, Crowding, Spacing, Overjet, Crossbite, and Underbite.

What to Expect When Getting Braces

The first visit is nothing more than a screening exam, as discussed earlier. It will serve as a baseline as your teen develops and gets new teeth.

Today, there are many more orthodontic treatment options and different types of braces for teenagers than ever before. We will help you determine the right choice for your teen based on the specific conditions, needs, and overall lifestyle.

At HIPP Orthodontics, our treatment process includes:

There are a few different types of braces that you can choose from, and they each have their own benefits. If you want to find out more about the differences between them or if you’d like us to help answer any questions before making a decision, we would be happy to book an appointment for a consultation. We’re here to make sure you get the smile you’ve always wanted! Which type of brace do you think will work best for you?