Your dentist will know what appliance is best for your particular problem, but the patient often has a choice. Braces generally come in 5 varieties:
- metal
- ceramic or clear
- lingual
- self-ligating
- Invisalign®
The most common type are metal braces. The brackets (metal squares on each tooth holding the wire) and the wires are usually made of stainless steel. They are placed at the front of your teeth and need to be tightened every 4 to 6 weeks.
For people self-conscious of metal braces, the ceramic or clear options function the same as metal, but the materials blend in better with your teeth, making the braces less noticeable. Ceramic braces can get stained, so make sure to have them properly cleaned and tightened every 4 to 6 weeks.
Lingual braces use the same parts as metal, but they are placed behind your teeth so that they are less visible. However, they can be uncomfortable for the tongue, take longer to work, and are harder to clean. They should be tightened and adjusted every 6 to 8 weeks.
Self-ligating braces are placed in the front and are made from stainless-steel. These use clips to hold the wire in place with the brackets, while metal braces use elastics. Therefore, these braces don’t need to be tightened, work faster, and are easier to clean. However, they can often be more expensive than traditional metal braces.
Invisalign® is the most unique and popular option as it does not have wires or brackets. Instead, they use a clear plastic shell around your teeth that is nearly invisible. Eating or drinking while wearing them is easier, but this style is only able to correct minor problems, like overbites and moderately crooked teeth. They should be replaced every 2 weeks. Talk to your dental professional to choose the best option for you.
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