Types of Braces
There are different types of braces catering to different needs. Traditional metal braces tend to work the fastest, but your concern may be more to do with how you look or how much you pay. Consult our orthodontists whether your chosen type is appropriate in your case.
Teeth braces use constant, gentle pressure, applied to your teeth over time, to move them into the proper position. Your braces are at work every moment of your orthodontic treatment. While different types of braces are available in a variety of styles, including metal, composite and ceramic, they all have the same goal: To correctly align your teeth and jaws for enhanced aesthetic appeal and for better oral health.
Metal Braces / Traditional Teeth Braces
Fully metal braces are the oldest and most common option. All this helps make metal braces a little more affordable than other permanent options. These are the metal brackets and wires that most people picture when they hear the word "braces." However, modern brackets are smaller and less noticeable than the notorious "metal-mouth" braces that many adults remember. Plus, new heat-activated archwires use your body heat to help teeth move more quickly and less painfully than in the past.
Ceramic Braces - for more inconspicuous look
Ceramic braces are the same size and shape as metal braces, except that they have tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend into teeth. Some even use tooth-colored wires to be even less noticeable.
Pros: Less noticeable than metal braces; move teeth much faster than clear plastic aligners (Invisalign)
Cons: More expensive than metal braces; Brackets can stain easily if patients don’t care for them well
Lingual Braces - practically unnoticeable
Lingual braces are the same as traditional metal braces, except that the brackets and wires are placed on the inside of teeth.
Pros: Invisible from outside
Cons: Difficult to clean; more expensive; not appropriate for severe cases; can be more uncomfortable at first; regular adjustments take longer and are more difficult than with traditional bracesInvisalignInvisalign consists of a series of 18 to 30 custom-made, mouth guard-like clear plastic aligners. The aligners are removable and are replaced every 2 weeks.
Self-Ligating Braces - more comfortable
Self-ligating braces are slightly more expensive than the bare-bones metal ones, but they come with a lot of advantages. First of all, less pressure and friction are placed on the teeth, which makes the system more comfortable.
Secondly, since they adapt to the changes in your mouth, the process is considerably faster. You will not need to visit the orthodontist for adjustments as often, either.
The most popular representative of self-ligating braces is the Damon System. Initially, they can be expensive, but the costs you save visiting the orthodontist less regularly makes them affordable still.
Without elastomeric rings they are also easier to keep clean which can prevent restorative costs.
Clear Aligners - Invisalign (Invisible) Braces
Invisalign® braces consists of a series of 18 to 30 custom-made, mouth guard-like clear plastic almost invisible clear aligners. The clear aligners are removable and are replaced every 2 weeks.
Pros: Almost invisible; Patients can eat and drink whatever they want. An ideal choice for adults and teenagers.
Cons: Will does not work for serious dental problems; only available for adults and teens, not children; more expensive option; can be easily lost and costly to replace; treatment may potentially take longer.
What is the braces process like?
Braces are a multi-step process. It may not look the same for everyone. The time it takes to complete treatment is also very different between patients and depends on:
- the severity of the issues,
- how much room there is in your mouth,
- how far the teeth have to move,
- the overall health of your teeth, gums and bone, and
- how well you follow instructions.
Our orthodontist specialists will be able to give you a rough timeline when fashioning your treatment plan.
Braces Near Woodbridge VA & Ashburn VA
Braces are a big and long-term investment. Choosing the right orthodontist is crucial. This means the one who will align your smile beautifully at an affordable price. In our orthodontic braces and smile center, you will find a range of orthodontic treatments to suit your needs. We provide all types of braces to straighten teeth and correct jaw disharmonies.
At American Braces & Smile Center Orthodontics we will answer all your dental questions and provide you with a no-obligation quote for your chosen orthodontic treatment.
We have conveniently located smiles centers in Woodbridge, VA and Ashburn, VA
