Braces or no braces?
Confidence or low self-esteem?
Straightened teeth or non-straightened teeth?
We’re all familiar with braces, whether we’ve known someone who’s had them or whether we’ve had them ourselves. Teeth braces of some kind have been used for hundreds (if not thousands) of years, but it’s only in the last 400 years that proper research has been done. The basic principle of the brace, to straighten teeth using pressure, has remained the same but the design and technique has changed massively.
Until you go into the orthodontist's office and begin to discuss your options, you may not be aware of just how many different types of braces that there are.
Although the most common type of brace is still the classic stainless steel brace, that doesn’t mean that you don’t have any other choice!
Take a look below at our types of braces and get to know some of your options.
Types of braces:
Traditional metal wired
Plain, stainless steel braces are the most common type of braces. They’ve become much more simple and subtle than their awkward and inconvenient beginnings, but they still consist of metal wires and brackets.
Titanium
Titanium braces are virtually the same as stainless steel braces, although titanium is lighter. They are just as strong as stainless steel but they are often more expensive.
Gold-plated
Gold-plated stainless steel braces are an alternative to pure stainless steel braces. They are usually used on patients who have an allergy to nickel, or who prefer gold braces to silver ones.
Lingual
Lingual braces are custom-made and are are attached to the back of the teeth, making them a cosmetic alternative to the more common and more visible traditional braces.
“Clear”
This type of brace is usually made from ceramic or plastic. It’s designed to be less obvious and to blend in with your teeth, although they function in the same way as metal braces, with metal wires and brackets.
Although they get the job done, classic braces often mean that you have to make lifestyle changes. You’ll probably be asked to give up eating certain foods while you’re wearing them, which can often be inconvenient and frustrating.
If you are looking to have your teeth straightened then don’t worry, traditional braces aren’t your only option!
Is there an alternative to braces?
Much more research has been done into the field of orthodontics since its beginnings in the 1700s. Nowadays, you can get almost invisible removable aligners that give you the same results as braces!
Aligners work by gradually pushing your teeth into the right position without using metal wires or tightening. Removable aligners offer convenience, comfort and subtlety. There’s also no need to give up any of your favourite foods and you can still have a brand new smile!
Don’t just choose traditional braces because you think that they’re your only option.
There is no price that can be put on confidence and we know that everyone is different, so research all of your options and decide what will suit your situation best.
