Did you know that over 4 million Americans wear orthodontics?
Whether you’re young or young-at-heart, there are many ways to straighten teeth. Or correct palate problems. Or resolve painful jaw issues. Gone are the days when conventional metal braces were the sole option.
When deciding which is the best type of braces, be sure to weigh how each device will fit into your lifestyle, maintenance routine, and budget.
An experienced Raleigh orthodontist can offer personalized consultation.
Each method has its benefits and drawbacks. But only you can decide what is your best option to achieve a winning smile.
Here is an overview of the top 8 orthodontic alternatives when it comes to investing in Raleigh braces.
Tried and True: Traditional Metal Braces
Conventional metal braces are still one of the most popular and effective options for moving teeth.
In the past decade, they have come a long way in form and function. Today’s metal braces are lighter, smaller, and more comfortable.
The metal braces are glued to the teeth and stainless steel wire threads through the brackets. Small elastic bands keep the archwire in place.
The archwire puts pressure on the teeth and is adjusted to guide the teeth into the correct position.
Blending Conventional With Colors: Ceramic Braces
For those worried about the glare from grinning with a mouth full of shiny metal, a more eye-pleasing alternative might be ceramic braces.
This less-conspicuous orthodontic option works like traditional braces but is not as noticeable. Ceramic braces come in tooth-toned colors to blend in with your teeth.
Many specialty dentists offer this teeth-straightening choice and it’s easy to find an orthodontist in Raleigh, N.C. where you can learn more.
A Clearer Choice: Removable Aligners
Another option is clear removable aligners. It’s easy to find a Raleigh orthodontist who specializes in treatments such as Invisalign.
The plastic aligners, or trays, fit in your mouth like a mouthguard. They are made from custom molds of your teeth and designed to be changed out about every two weeks.
Over the treatment period, the individualized trays gently shift the teeth into alignment.
One of the biggest benefits of removable aligners is that they can be taken out when eating or brushing your teeth. Also, they are made of clear plastic, so they are transparent.
As a result, many passersby won’t know patients even have braces.
Clips Over Bands: Self-Ligating Braces
Self-Ligating braces are another discreet way to fix problemed teeth.
These braces are like traditional orthodontics. The brackets (they come in metal or ceramic) are attached to the teeth. But instead of elastic bands, these braces have clips affixed to the archwire.
The clips can open and close for orthodontic adjustments. These braces offer patients a comfortable orthodontic experience with a shorter treatment time.
There are many pros and cons to each treatment. Check with an orthodontist in Raleigh to get the most up-to-date professional advice.
Another Invisible Option: Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are a type of orthodontics placed on the backside of the teeth.
Since they sit on the tongue side and not the traditional front side, the braces are hidden from view.
Customized metal brackets and wires fit each tooth. They are designed to straighten crooked teeth without anyone being the wiser.
This option might be a strong contender for adults who want the invisibility and benefit of braces.
A scientific study showed that adults prefer aesthetically pleasing orthodontic appliances, such as lingual braces, over traditional ones.
Hidden Headgear: A Forsus Appliance
There are orthodontic devices that work in conjunction with braces to move teeth into alignment.
For patients who have an extreme overbite, a Forsus appliance might correct the problem.
The device attaches to the braces and works to align the teeth and jaw together. Orthodontists install the system of stainless steel tubes and springs inside the mouth. These have made traditional clunky headgear obsolete.
Making Room: Palatal Expanders
For patients with twisted or overlapping teeth, a palate expander can be an effective dental solution. They allow room for a straighter smile.
These expanders create more space for the crowded teeth by widening the roof of the mouth.
The appliance attaches to the upper molars and gently puts pressure on the back teeth to expand the upper jaw. Often patients wear an expander before braces to ensure there is enough room for the perfect alignment of teeth.
A palatal expander is not only a way to correct crooked teeth. It can also fix a crossbite and give impacted teeth room to grow in.
Alleviating Jaw Pain With Orthodontics
Some patients seek out an orthodontic specialist to treat chronic mouth muscle pain and jaw discomfort.
If you suffer from temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ disorder), there are noninvasive procedures to reduce the pressure on the joint.
With the right provider, patients can end chronic jaw pain through effective TMJ treatment in Raleigh.
Ask Your Raleigh Orthodontist About the Best Option
The quickest way to fixing crooked teeth is to consult an experienced Raleigh orthodontist. They can recommend which of the many orthodontic alternatives is right for you.
It could be the traditional route. Or a semi-conventional plan with ceramic braces. Maybe the discreet advantage of a removable aligner is the right choice. There is no one-size-fits-all.
At Carolina Braces, we know each patient needs an orthodontic solution that fits their needs and lifestyle.
Contact our team of orthodontic specialists to schedule an appointment or for a consultation.