Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces, which are the most widely used type, are now more comfortable than ever. Made from high-quality stainless steel, they retain their shine and won’t stain from the food you eat. The metal brackets and archwires work together to gradually straighten your teeth. For a more personalized and fun touch, you can add colorful elastics to your metal braces, making your smile even more unique and vibrant.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are also made from durable stainless steel but don’t require elastics to hold the archwire in place. These braces are similar in size to traditional metal braces, but feature a specialized clip or gate that secures the archwire. This design reduces the pressure on your teeth and means fewer adjustments, as there are no elastics to replace.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, making them completely invisible when you smile. They are fully customized to fit the unique shape of your teeth, ensuring a perfect match. Lingual braces are an excellent choice for athletes, models, actors/actresses, musicians who play wind instruments, and professionals who prefer a more discreet treatment option.
Why Beaumont Orthodontics
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
Ceramic braces are made from transparent materials, making them less visible on your teeth compared to traditional metal braces. As a result, they are typically preferred by older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns.
Although they are less noticeable, ceramic braces require extra attention to oral hygiene due to their larger size and increased brittleness compared to metal braces. For this reason, they are usually recommended for the upper front teeth rather than the lower teeth.
How do clear braces differ from clear aligners?
Clear braces are similar to traditional metal braces but are made from clear materials, providing a more subtle appearance. They deliver the same effective results as metal braces but with less visibility.
Clear aligners, on the other hand, are different. These are made of hard plastic and fit over your teeth like a mouthguard. Clear aligners are best suited for patients who require only minor orthodontic adjustments.
What are the pros and cons of clear braces?
Like any orthodontic treatment, it's crucial to choose the right option based on your personal needs and lifestyle. Clear braces serve as a great alternative to traditional metal braces, and your orthodontist can help determine if they are the right choice for you.
Benefits of clear braces:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Clear and ceramic braces are far less noticeable than traditional metal braces, offering a more discreet option for those looking for a less obvious treatment.
- Boosted Confidence: Many patients feel more confident with clear or ceramic braces, as they know their smiles are the main focus, not their braces.
Drawbacks of clear braces:
- Cost: Ceramic and clear braces can be more expensive than traditional metal braces. However, your orthodontist may offer flexible payment plans to help manage the cost. Be sure to discuss all your financial options.
- Staining: The clear elastic bands used with clear and ceramic braces may discolor from tea, coffee, wine, certain foods, or smoking. Ask your orthodontist for tips on keeping your braces looking their best.
- Longer Treatment Time: Treatment with clear or ceramic braces may take longer than with metal braces. If you’re willing to invest a bit more time in your smile, talk to your orthodontist about your treatment duration with these braces.
Are clear or ceramic braces the right fit for my smile?
Consulting with your orthodontist will help you determine if clear or ceramic braces are the best option for your treatment. Your orthodontist can answer any questions you have and provide additional information about each option. If you're interested in learning more about clear and ceramic braces or exploring other treatment possibilities, contact our practice to schedule a consultation today.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners provide an alternative way to straighten your teeth using a series of transparent, removable acrylic trays. Not only are they discreet, but they are also removable, allowing you to eat and drink freely while undergoing treatment. Additionally, they make brushing and flossing much easier compared to traditional braces.
The aligners are designed for comfort and don’t contain any metal, which means you won’t experience mouth abrasions during treatment.
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners work similarly to braces by applying gradual pressure to move teeth into the desired position, but without the use of metal wires or brackets. Made from durable plastic, these aligners are replaced at home as directed by your orthodontist. They should be worn for at least 20 hours each day, and the duration of your treatment will vary based on the severity of your case, typically lasting from six months to two years.
Benefits of orthodontic treatment with clear aligners:
For those who qualify, clear aligners are an excellent alternative for patients who desire a straighter smile but prefer not to wear metal braces. They are also great for individuals who have had previous treatment and now want to make small adjustments. There are numerous advantages to choosing clear aligners for orthodontic treatment:
- Clear aligners are easier to maintain, which helps preserve the health of your teeth and gums.
- They are comfortable and less likely to cause irritation to your gums or cheeks.
- Clear aligners protect against tooth wear caused by grinding.
- Since they are removable, brushing and flossing after meals is much more convenient.
- There are no dietary restrictions, as aligners can be taken out during meals.
Schedule an appointment to discuss with your orthodontist whether clear aligners are the best option for your treatment.
Why Beaumont Orthodontics
LightForce Braces
Braces, but improved
LightForce provides a treatment tailored to your unique dental needs. We're excited to offer this advanced solution that combines cutting-edge 3D printing technology with fully digital treatment planning to deliver exceptional results and an enhanced experience. With LightForce, personalized braces are created to fit the exact shape and alignment of your teeth, shortening treatment time and reducing the number of office visits needed.
Benefits of LightForce
- Efficient Treatment: Braces are specifically designed to match your teeth, improving treatment efficiency.
- Optimal Results: Digital treatment planning combined with advanced bracket technology ensures superior results.
- Perfect Fit: Using digital scans, LightForce creates braces that fit precisely, ensuring less discomfort, more effective alignment, and shorter treatment durations. LightForce represents the future of orthodontics: More efficient, customized, and convenient than any other option available.
Interested in discovering how LightForce can improve your smile?
Learn more about the technology by visiting the LightForce website (https://lf.co/), or click here to schedule a complimentary consultation with our orthodontist today.
