What are the Different Types of Braces?

So, either you or someone you love is looking into braces. Maybe you don’t know anything about them, or perhaps you’re wondering how they’ve changed over the years since you had them as a child. What are the different types of braces? How do they work? 

Here at Selden Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer the latest in orthodontic technology, including various styles and approaches to braces, from traditional metal brackets to exciting new developments in the field, such as Champagne braces. Read on to learn more! 

Metal braces

Traditional metal braces are today’s most widely employed style, although this is starting to change. While other options are becoming more available, traditional metal braces are often the best option for your or your child’s care. 

Today’s braces are smaller, faster, more comfortable and more effective than ever! 

Metal braces are applied to the teeth with special dental cement and connected by a wire. Dr. Selden will adjust the wire periodically to guide your treatment.

 Many parents prefer traditional braces to removable aligners such as Invisalign since they don’t have to remind their kids to wear them! Of course, it’s important to remember that your child’s braces will require maintenance and care, and the development or upkeep of good oral hygiene habits is a must.

Ceramic (Clear) Braces

Ceramic braces are often referred to as Clear braces due to their material, which is a similar color to your child’s teeth. Functionally quite similar to traditional braces, these have the advantage of being less apparent, which many patients love. Clear braces are great for young adults and children who aren’t excited about the visibility aspect of traditional braces.

Ask Dr. Selden about ceramics for you or your child. They are a practical part of any good orthodontist’s toolset, but it’s important to remember that they are slightly larger than traditional braces and cost a bit more. Additionally, adjustments generally occur at a slower pace, as the ceramics aren’t capable of withstanding the pressure of conventional braces. This means your ceramic treatment could take a bit longer. 

Self-ligating Brace

Self-ligating braces differ from traditional and clear braces because they do not use elastic ties to secure the wire connecting the brackets. Instead, Dr. Selden will secure your braces with a series of brackets and clips that allow the wire to move on its own. What this means is that not only will you not have the issues that come with cumbersome and stainable wires, but also that, in most cases, the treatment will proceed more quickly and require fewer appointments. 

Self-ligating braces are a more advanced form of hardware, and correspondingly, you can expect them to be a little more expensive. Also, they are often not as effective with more complex cases, So Dr. Selden may still recommend traditional or clear braces, depending on your or your child’s particular case.  

Champagne Braces

At the cutting edge of orthodontic treatment, Champagne braces combine the durability of traditional metal brackets with the discreet appearance of ceramics! They also feature a low-profile design that contours to your teeth and mouth, making them more comfortable than ever. 

Invisalign And Clear Aligners

Clear aligners like Invisalign consist of an advanced set of clear aligning trays that fit snugly over your teeth and gently move them into position over time. Much like traditional bracketed braces, they can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to render a full course of treatment. 

Also, much like traditional braces, they are prescribed and administered by a trained orthodontist. 

Invisalign operates via the combination of sophisticated 3D imaging technology with 3D printing technology. Dr. Selden will take a detailed scan of your or your child’s teeth and jaw, then carefully customize a course of care that results in an initial set of clear trays with micro-adjustments to the beginning positions of the teeth and jaws. 

New aligners will be administered roughly every two weeks, with periodic appointments to ensure that treatment is going according to plan, as well as to make any adjustments required. 

Invisalign is an effective alternative to installed braces. It is an attractive option, as the trays are removable, but it is essential to remember that they need to be worn regularly to remain effective. Additionally, it is crucial to be sure and keep them clean. The trays can be brushed at the same time as your teeth.  

Let’s Get Your Smile Started! 

No matter what type of braces is right for you, Selden Orthodontics has you covered. We’re proud to serve the people of Huntersville and Charlotte, and we’re honored to consider ourselves a part of the community. In fact, Dr. Robert Selden grew up just a few hours away!

We take our role in the community seriously, and nothing is more important to us than ensuring that you leave our office satisfied every time. Call today for a free consultation, and let’s get started!   

Posted by Dr. Selden