Braces are great for improving your smile, and you have a few different options for improving your smiles. The most popular types of braces use different methods to correct bite problems and straighten teeth. Your choice of braces can be based on your needs, preferences, and treatment goals.
Read on to learn more about the types of braces and how long you can expect to wear them.
What Kinds of Problems Does Orthodontia Treat?
When most people think of orthodontics, they think of braces and crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatment straightens teeth, but it also treats many other problems:
- Overbite: The top teeth cover the bottom teeth too much.
- Underbite: The lower teeth stick out past the upper teeth.
- Open bite: Some of the front teeth don't make contact with opposing teeth when the mouth is closed.
- Crossbite: One or more upper teeth bite on the inside of lower teeth or vice versa.
- Crowding: There's inadequate space within your jaw for all your teeth to fit normally.
- Spacing: Teeth have excessive gaps between them.
Orthodontic treatment can also improve chewing function, speech, and appearance.
What Types of Braces are Available?
If you're considering getting braces, it's helpful to understand your options. The three types of braces include traditional braces, ceramic braces, and invisible aligners.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are more effective than ever and can treat many orthodontic issues.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are made of tooth-colored ceramic and are designed to blend in with the rest of your smile naturally. They combine the advantages of metal braces and clear aligners, making them an excellent option for many patients.
Invisalign
Invisalign aligners perform most of the same functions as braces and can be an excellent alternative to braces for many patients. Invisalign is a discrete, comfortable, and convenient orthodontic treatment.
Your orthodontist will help guide you in making the best choice for you and your smile.
How Long Do You Have to Wear Braces?
The length of time you’ll need to wear braces depends on several factors, including the severity of your bite problems and how well you keep up with adjustments and comply with your orthodontist’s instructions. In some cases, treatment may take as little as six months. In other cases, it could take three years or more.
For many dental issues, you may be able to use clear orthodontic aligners instead of traditional braces. Aligners work by gradually moving the teeth into their proper positions over a number of months.
Most orthodontists recommend that you wear a retainer after your treatment is finished to help hold your teeth in their new positions. You may need to wear a retainer for as long as two years.
AcceleDent Can Speed Up Your Treatment
AcceleDent is a treatment option that can be used in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. This device utilizes SoftPulse Technology to expedite your orthodontic treatment and can reduce the duration of orthodontic treatment by up to 50 percent.
Signature Smiles Offers Options for Straightening Your Smile
During your initial consultation, your orthodontist will discuss the options with you, including the advantages and disadvantages of the types of braces, how long you can expect treatment to take, and how much they'll cost. You can then make an informed decision about what’s best for you.
Are you ready to get your smile in shape? Contact us online or call 651-426-9986 to schedule an appointment.