The
first time you begin to research orthodontic treatment, you will hear
about different braces, such as metal, Invisalign, and ceramic
braces. These three are among the different types of braces in use
today. Below are some of the factors that determine which type is
best for you.
Degree of Misalignment
Are
your teeth severely misaligned, or do you just wanted to deal with a
little crookedness? The degree of misalignment is important because
braces vary in their effectiveness. For example, if your teeth are
seriously crooked and you want perfect alignment, then you are better
off with the traditional metal braces.
On
the other hand, Invisalign or lingual braces are adequate for minimal
misalignment. Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and advise
you on the suitable aligner for your condition.
Treatment Speed
For
some people, orthodontic treatment barely lasts a year, and others
have to wear their braces for three years or so. Some of the factors
that determine how long you have to wear your braces include the
degree of misalignment, how well you follow your orthodontist's
instructions, and even the type of braces you have.
The
traditional metal braces, for instance, are some of the fastest
braces with regard to treatment speed. Therefore, if you only want to
wear your braces for the shortest time possible, the metal braces may
be best for you. Irrespective of the braces you eventually get, your
orthodontist will inform you how long you have to wear your braces.
Aesthetic Considerations
Some
people care a lot about how their teeth look during their orthodontic
treatment while others only care for the result. Whether you fall on
one side of the divide or the other also determines the best
orthodontics for you. Some braces will look better in your mouth than
others.
For
example, lingual braces are barely visible because the orthodontist
installs the braces on the inside of your teeth, on the side that
faces your tongue. You can also opt for Invisalign or clear aligners
if you don't want other people to notice your braces the minute you
smile. However, you shouldn't make aesthetics the main reason to get
a particular kind of braces. Personal
Comfort Issues
All
braces require extra care on a day-to-day basis. You need to clean
the braces and clean your teeth carefully to reduce the risk of
dental or oral infections. However, some braces require more care
than others. For example, metal braces have brackets and wires that
make oral hygiene more difficult.
Invisalign
braces, however, are removable and give you the opportunity to clean
your teeth as usual. Not only that, but some braces also fit better
and don't irritate your oral tissues as much as others. Therefore,
how much you can tolerate personal discomfort will also dictate the
type of braces you get.
Cost Considerations
Since
insurance doesn't always cover orthodontics, many people can't ignore
the issue of cost when they compare braces. As you would expect, the
different types of braces have different prices. For example,
Invisalign and lingual braces are some of the most expensive braces
and cost thousands of dollars more than ceramic or metal braces.
Number of Consultations
Orthodontic
treatment requires follow-up visits to the orthodontist at specific
intervals. The orthodontist uses the follow-up visits to adjust the
braces for proper alignment, check the treatment progress, and ensure
the braces fit properly, among other things.
However,
self-ligating brackets don't require numerous visits to the
orthodontist. Self-ligating braces adjust themselves automatically as
your treatment progresses. As such, the self-ligating braces can cut
your treatment time by as much as half. The reduced number of
consultations is best for you if you have a busy schedule.
The
good news is that there are suitable braces for everyone irrespective
of their preferences. At Donald E. Snyder Orthodontics, we will
examine your teeth and advise you on the most suitable braces for
you. Consult
us
for all your orthodontic needs so that we can begin your alignment
journey as soon as possible.
