When a lot of people hear the word ‘orthodontics’, their mind immediately goes to the image of a smiling child wearing braces. However, orthodontics can be for anyone, no matter if they are a child, teen, or even an adult. No matter what your age is, having a healthy and beautiful smile can make you far more confident and happier with your self-image. Treatments like Invisalign and braces can do wonders for your self-esteem. Here is some information about the most common types of orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign
Invisalign clear aligners can treat certain dental issues such as open bite, gap teeth, and crowded teeth, as well as certain types of moderate bite problems. Clear aligners set themselves apart from other similar treatments like metal braces, in that they are less noticeable while also being similarly effective. This means that you can feel confident in your smile even during the orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign clear aligners are also easily removable, meaning that cleaning your teeth is far easier than with traditional braces since the lack of wires and brackets makes cleaning less problematic and more effective. In this way, your oral health is more easily maintainable.
However, Invisalign also cannot treat all orthodontic problems, so depending on the severity of malocclusion or misalignment, Invisalign may not be right for you. It’s always best to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist to see if Invisalign is right for you!
Metal Braces
Metal Braces are the most traditional type of orthodontic treatment; they involve metal brackets being attached to teeth individually and are connected to elastic rings that support an archwire that puts pressure on your teeth and jaw. At orthodontist appointments, the archwire is adjusted according to the progress of the treatment. You may feel sore for a week or so following the installation of the braces. Similarly, there may be soreness for a few days after each adjustment of the archwire. Out of all the treatments, metal braces are the most aesthetically noticeable.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, but with a few key differences; ceramic brackets can be clear or tooth-colored, meaning that they are not as noticeable as the classic metal brackets. This can be a large benefit for someone who wants treatment but may feel self-conscious about how their teeth look during orthodontic treatment. They can treat severe forms of malalignment and malocclusion whereas Invisalign may not be able to.
In conclusion, it’s never a bad idea to speak with your orthodontist about which treatment is right for your needs. Contact Graf Orthodontics with 5 locations in NWLA today.
