Braces

Types of braces

There are different types of braces in modern dentistry: metal, ceramic, sapphire, lingual (attached to the palatal or lingual surface of the teeth).

Ceramic braces

They are made of ceramics. Ceramic braces are widely used today. They are very popular with adult patients because they are more aesthetically pleasing than metal ones.

Advantages:

Ceramic braces are invisible because they are selected to match the tooth color.

— They are more comfortable than metal ones and do not irritate the gums.

— They are strong, do not break, and they are very firmly attached to the teeth.

Disadvantages:

The disadvantages of ceramic brackets are minor.

— Ceramic braces are usually more expensive than traditional metal braces.

— Treatment with ceramic braces in a longer process than treatment with metal ones.

— They are usually bigger than metal braces.

Metal braces

Earlier, metal braces were not just brackets but they had a shape of large rings around the tooth. Currently, metal braces are small and they are attached to the front surface of the teeth. Today, metal braces are widely used; they are inexpensive, the cheapest among the available braces. Metal braces can be silver or gold.

Advantages:

— Metal braces are more affordable.

— They are more durable and do not break.

Disadvantages:

— Metal braces are insufficiently aesthetic.

— First, they may not be entirely comfortable, getting used to them takes several weeks.

— In the beginning, they may irritate the gums but this problem disappears in a few weeks.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are attached to the lingual surface of the teeth, thus, they are not visible. Usually, lingual braces are made of metal.

Advantages:

— They are invisible!

Disadvantages:

— Lingual braces interfere with speaking because they are attached to the lingual surface of the teeth, thereby, hindering articulation.

— Lingual braces are more expensive.

— Treatment with lingual braces takes few months longer than traditional treatment.

Sapphire braces

Sapphire braces are made of pure monocrystalline sapphire and are very translucent. They are very aesthetic and durable. Sapphire braces are not susceptible to staining; plaque does not accumulate on them. If the teeth are very light, sapphire brackets are the best option because they are transparent. However, if the teeth are not very light, sapphire brackets are not the best option. In such cases, ceramic braces are a better choice.

For how long do you need to wear braces?

Brace treatment time is defined individually, depending on the clinical case. The average time of wearing braces is 2 years. After the removal of braces, there is a period of maintenance, i.e. a dentist make you a special plastic retainer for this period. It is thin, comfortable to wear and does not contain metal elements. This retainer ensures the correct position of the teeth and prevents relapse after the desired effect is achieved. After the retainer manufacture, a dentist gives you all necessary care recommendations.