Ceramic braces? Invisalign®? Traditional metal? These days, there are many choices available to adults and children, and it gets confusing! Which type of braces should you choose? Orthodontists draw from a diverse array of “appliances” to move teeth and align jaws. But not all kinds of orthodontic appliances are right for correcting all kinds of orthodontic problems. Your orthodontist will analyze your mouth and jaws, formulate a treatment plan, set goals and recommend the best way for you to achieve those goals.
All orthodontic appliances systems do the same thing. They apply gentle, controlled pressure to the teeth, which in turn stimulates the bone around the roots of the teeth to change and reshape itself. The teeth do not “know” what is applying the pressure. They simply react to the fact that it is present. No type of braces makes the teeth move faster. Our biologic nature, our age, and our overall health determine that. But some types of braces have more control over tooth movement than others. For that reason, appliance selection can be important.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the type that you most often think about when braces are mentioned. Metal braces have two components: brackets and wires and are made out of stainless steel. They are usually attached to the front of your teeth, but some can be “hidden” behind your teeth. Wires, which do the work of moving your teeth, are threaded through slots in the brackets. You will need to see your orthodontist periodically to adjust your wires.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are another type of popular braces. They are definitely popular among adolescents. These braces are clear and aren’t as easy to see as the ones that are made out of metal. Usually these braces are made to blend in with the natural color of a tooth’s enamel. They move your teeth the same way metal braces do with brackets and wires.
Aligners (such as the product called Invisalign®)
Aligners are generally made of a clear plastic or acrylic material, and are custom-shaped to your teeth. A series of aligners is necessary to reach treatment goals. Each aligner is worn for a few weeks. They progressively move teeth toward their desired positions. Aligners are great for people whose orthodontic problems aren’t that complicated. They are almost entirely invisible (hence the name) and they aren’t easily noticed. These also offer the wearer superior oral hygiene because it’s easy to remove them for brushing and flossing or while you eat. They are limited in their control over tooth movement. Some cases may not be suitable for treatment with aligners.
Retainers
Retainers preserve and stabilize your results from orthodontic treatment. They are the best way to control or limit changes in tooth position. Retainers can be removable or non-removable. Removable ones can be traditional, with wires, or clear, similar to aligners. Non-removable retainers generally consist of wires bonded in behind either the bottom or top teeth. Wear your retainers as prescribed to maintain your healthy new smile.
AND DON’T FORGET:
SEE THE ORTHODONTIST AT AGE 7
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic examination at age 7. It is at this age that many problems with the developing jaws and teeth become apparent. I would recommend that all children at least be looked at by an orthodontic specialist at this age, with or without a dentist referral.
In most cases, orthodontic treatment will not be recommended at this age. But there are certain developing problems in the mouth that get worse over time, and eventually become very difficult to correct. Like any developmental problem, the earlier they are addressed, the better chance that they can be corrected. In those special cases, a period of treatment can make a huge difference in the future appearance and function of the mouth.
And don’t worry if your child is older than 7, as it’s never too late for a check-up!
ORTHODONTISTS ARE SPECIALISTS
In most states, any dentist may provide orthodontic treatment, whether or not they have had special training. Only the Orthodontist has taken specialty training, for at least two years, in an accredited university program. Orthodontic specialists are focused full-time on one discipline- Orthodontic correction of the teeth and jaws. I recommend consulting a specialist for your orthodontic questions or concerns.
Your mouth is an important part of yourself and your overall heath. Don’t wait to talk to an orthodontist if you have any concerns or questions about your child’s smile!
Dr. Beckwith has offices in Westerville and Sunbury to serve his patients of all ages. You can reach him at 614-882-5391 (Westerville) or 740-965-8700 (Sunbury).
Visit Dr. Beckwith's website for more information.
