When you need to straighten your teeth or properly align your jaw for a beautiful smile, you’re no longer stuck with a single option for orthodontic care. Metal braces became commonly used in the 1950s, but today’s orthodontic options consist of a number of choices. From traditional braces to the popular Invisalign aligners, when you need Bridgeport / Trumbull Line orthodontic care, the DeJesus Dental Group is the best choice.
Our skilled team will evaluate your oral care needs and offer the best solution to shift your teeth to the ideal alignment. We want your orthodontic care to be convenient and effective. We’ll take the time to explain which Bridgeport orthodontics care option is appropriate for your condition. While most orthodontic care occurs between the ages of 8 and 14, healthy teeth can be orthodontically treated at any age. Here are the four most common types of braces and for which situations they work best.
Type 1: Metal Braces
There are two primary components of metal braces: the bracket and bendable wire. Metal braces, also called traditional braces, are applied to the teeth with a malleable metal wire threaded through each bracket pull and push the teeth in a specific direction and shift them over time. Metal braces are usually worn for one to three years, followed by a retainer worn at night to maintain the results.
Metal braces are the most common form of orthodontic care but are now smaller and less noticeable than past styles. In most cases metal braces also offer the fastest results and can be personalized by the bracket and rubber band color.
The cost of metal braces will vary based on your orthodontic care needs. Your dental insurance likely covers some of the expense.
Type 2: Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are an alternative to the metal choice when you don’t want the braces to be noticed. The brackets and wires are made of ceramic material, the same color as your teeth. Unlike traditional braces, the ceramic style is very hard to notice, which made them a very popular choice when they were first developed in the 1980s.
While ceramic braces can be a good choice to correct misaligned or overlapping teeth, it’s important to note the braces stain just like natural teeth. Foods and beverages like wine, coffee, and red sauces can stain the ceramic material. Strong dental care is important with ceramic braces to avoid the brackets and wire turning a dull yellow. This style of orthodontic care is slightly more expensive, and has the same level of discomfort as traditional braces.
Type 3: Invisalign
For many adults, the thought of getting braces is intimidating, which makes Invisalign a good choice. Invisalign is the most common form of invisible braces. The clear aligners are custom made to fit your teeth, and once you’re used to wearing them, they can be far more comfortable than traditional braces. As your teeth begin to shift into the desired position, you’ll be refitted for new aligners until the complete transformation has occurred. Most patients who opt for Invisalign treatment will wear the aligners for 12 to 18 months.
In addition to not being able to see the braces, the largest benefit of Invisalign is the ability to remove the treatment completely to clean teeth and the aligners. You can also enjoy many of the foods you’d otherwise skip with traditional braces, like popcorn, caramel, hard candy or crunchy snacks. Invisalign is a good option for those who need minor orthodontic care. Read more about the dos and don’ts of Bridgeport / Trumbull Line Invisalign.
Type 4: Incognito Braces
Incognito braces are metal braces placed on the inside of your teeth, making them virtually invisible to anyone but you. Incognito braces are sometimes referred to as lingual braces and have all the benefits of traditional braces. Teeth are shifted over time with continuous gentle pressure. The cost of incognito braces is slightly more expensive than traditional braces as there’s more customization that goes into fitting your teeth for the treatment. Incognito braces cost up to $7,500 on average.
Braces To Avoid
In an attempt to save money or avoid prolonged orthodontic care, some are turning to Do-it-yourself braces. While kits can be purchased online, the damage that can be done to your teeth when attempting to use DIY braces is severe. The irreversible effects to your teeth and gums can not only cause pain but you may end up paying more in oral care to repair the damage than simply investing in proper orthodontic care.
Caring For Braces
How you care for and clean your braces will vary greatly depending on the style of Bridgeport / Trumbull Line orthodontic care you select. Traditional and incognito braces require a floss threader or water or air flossers to remove food particles caught between brackets within the wire.
Your Bridgeport orthodontist may also recommend a specific toothbrush to care for your braces. Invisalign treatments should be removed and cleaned out with water each night, then brushed with your toothbrush and toothpaste to clear away any remaining food and bacteria.
Before you use any teeth whitening toothpaste or other whitening product, consult with your orthodontist. There are specific products he or she will recommend to ensure you’re not damaging the braces.
Bridgeport / Trumbull Line Orthodontic Care
Finding the right Bridgeport / Trumbull Line orthodontic care for your family doesn’t have to be complicated. The experienced, caring team at DeJesus Dental Group offers complete oral care services in our Bridgeport family dentist office. From routine dental care appointments to advanced orthodontic needs, Dr. DeJesus and his amazing staff can meet the needs of each person in your family. Schedule your appointment today to explore your options for straighter teeth that give you the power to smile back.