What are the different types of dental braces?

Which type of dental braces should you choose?

Each type has its strengths and potential weaknesses. Your dentist in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, can explain in greater detail how every option can help transform your smile.

To give you a quick overview, here's some basic information about the different types of dental braces and how they work.

1. Traditional metal braces

   Metal braces are composed of wires, brackets, and elastic ties. They apply pressure to the teeth to move them to their desired position.

   Every 4 weeks or as instructed by your dentist, you need to come back for an adjustment. It may take some time to get used to your new appliance. It's natural to experience discomfort at first, but this is temporary.

   Today’s metal braces are no longer bulky and are a lot more comfortable. One great thing about traditional metal braces is they're fixed in place. You won’t have to worry about losing or forgetting to wear them.

   Brushing and flossing can become more challenging, but don't let this keep you from giving your mouth a thorough clean.

2. Lingual braces

   Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but they’re attached at the back of the teeth.

   If you want your braces hidden from view, lingual braces may be worth considering. The procedure is highly specialized, though, so not all dentists or orthodontists offer it.

   Lingual braces can be customized to meet your oral health needs. But since they’re positioned behind teeth, your tongue can often become irritated through contact. You may also experience speech changes.

   These concerns usually occur in the beginning and subside once you’re accustomed to your new appliance.

3. Ceramic braces

   Ceramic braces are also similar to traditional braces except, instead of metal, the brackets are made from ceramic that’s colour-matched to your teeth.

   Some patients prefer them over other types of braces because they’re less visible and still as effective in correcting teeth alignment.

   However, the ceramic material can stain so you need to pay extra attention to your brushing and flossing habits.

   Ceramic braces may not work for everyone, but they may be a perfect choice if clear aligners aren’t enough to fix your orthodontic concerns and you’re uncomfortable with metal braces.

4. Self-ligating braces

   Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating braces don’t come with elastic ties. They use ligatures to keep the wires in place, aligning the teeth faster.

   Self-ligating braces require periodic adjustments too, when your dentist evaluates treatment progress. They may modify the amount of force applied to your teeth to speed up the procedure.

   Like traditional braces, self-ligating braces may also cause discomfort or pain, especially after they're tightened. But they may work for you if you opt for shorter appointment periods or are more sensitive to discomfort.

   Learn more about getting dental braces in North Battleford, Saskatchewan

   If you're in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, and would like to learn more about getting dental braces, please feel free to call us today at .

   We’re more than happy to help you schedule an initial consultation with our General Dentist, Dr. Sherry Rayburn. Let's talk about your specific oral health concerns and see which type of dental braces is right for you.