They were once one of those things that everyone dreaded – in some ways, they even had a stigma attached. However, braces no longer have to be a source of hatred, advances in dentistry means that the situation has changed dramatically over the last ten years and in a lot of cases, they just blend into a person’s mouth.
Of course, the traditional braces do still exist and there are some advantages for opting for them. If you do fall into the position of requiring them, let’s take a look at some of your options. Suffice to say, there are exceptionally more than they were over a decade or so ago!
The traditional option
Let’s start traditionally; the type of braces that most of us grew up recognizing. Comprised of stainless steel brackets, there were all sorts of phrases used to accurately describe them including “metal mouth” and “train tracks”. Both weren’t necessarily derogatory, they gave a good idea on what the braces were like.
Of course, even traditional braces have progressed immensely over the years. They are now much smaller than they were before and as such, less noticeable. Additionally, many are heat-activated, which allow your teeth to move more quickly and without as much pain.
Lingual braces
This is perhaps one of the more interesting developments and is one that is recommended by a lot of Orthodontics in Solihull. The interesting-factor comes because they are actually formed out of the same brackets used in the traditional offering, with the only difference being that they are positioned on the inside of your teeth. The end result? They are hidden away – exactly like most of us want.
Invisalign
Perhaps one of the more modern advances in this vein comes in the form of Invisalign. This time, discreteness is key, and this product is made from a BPA-free plastic which is completely clear.
Another big difference comes in the way in which Invisalign braces are formed. They are not braces so to speak, they are effectively trays. These trays don’t stay in your mouth for months at a time, but are instead replaced every fourteen days. The benefit of this is that your teeth are allowed to move in the right direction and allows you to complete the treatment phase much more quickly.
Ceramic braces
The final option we’re going to look at are ceramic braces. These are a slight deviation from the traditional metal option we have already spoken about as on first look, they are exactly the same.
Of course, discreetness is again key. Once again, the industry has moved to alleviate those concerns involving braces being too obvious, by making ceramic braces blend in to the rest of your teeth. They will be either clear or tooth-colored – with some of the more advanced options using wires which are tooth-colored to achieve an even better effect. The latter tend to cost a little more but again, most people are happy to pay just to keep the braces more hidden.