When the word "braces" comes up in conversation, most people envision a teen or young adult with metal wires across their teeth.
However, the truth is that there are plenty of teeth straightening styles available for people of all ages and preferences. Whether you're looking for overnight straightening with a retainer or discreet daily straightening with clear aligners, it helps to know what options are available to you. Read on to learn about the most popular teeth straightening options today.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces use brackets and metal wires to move your teeth into a new position. Your orthodontist will cement these permanent, non-removable braces onto your teeth.
You can often choose from different kinds of brackets. Metal brackets are the style people think of when they imagine traditional braces, but you can also get tooth-coloured ceramic brackets for a more discreet look.
In addition, you can opt for self-ligating brackets, which have no elastic bands. Instead, they use sliding clips or doors to keep the wire in place. This can shorten your orthodontic visits and make your braces easier to clean.
Lingual Braces
Sometimes called "invisible braces," these braces sit behind the teeth. They work in the same way that traditional braces do, using brackets and a metal alloy wire to straighten your teeth.
Lingual braces are less common, and not all orthodontists are familiar with them. Because the procedure for them can be more complex, they can often cost more than traditional braces.
Clear Aligners
For an even more discreet choice, clear aligners are ideal. Brands like Invisalign have popularized this removable option, which can treat a wide range of crowding and bite issues.
With in-office aligners, you'll get a set of custom thermoplastic aligners that you'll wear around the clock. You can remove it when you're eating, brushing your teeth, or cleaning the trays.
You can also get at-home aligners through teledentistry companies. However, these companies sometimes offer misleading information. The aligners may even damage your teeth without a proper fitting.
Retainers
Retainers can be ideal for people who need minimal straightening. They can also help you preserve your straight teeth after one of the treatments above.
Traditional retainers use a piece of wire attached to plastic or acrylic. You can also find clear retainers that look similar to the clear aligners mentioned above.
Often, you'll wear your custom retainer full-time for a few months after your treatment.
Contact the Teeth Straightening Experts
There are many ways to get the straight smile of your dreams, but it's always important to work with an experienced orthodontist for any teeth straightening method. Getting expert recommendations and a custom fit can be crucial to your success.
If you're ready to get a beautiful, confident smile, turn to someone you can trust. The professionals at GD Orthodontics have been serving Mississauga area patients for years, and we'd be happy to help! To learn what we can do for your smile, contact us today for a free consultation.