Braces Breakdown: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Smile
When it comes to straightening your teeth, all orthodontics work the same – by gently pulling your teeth into the perfect position for a great smile and effective bite. However, every patient has unique needs and expectations for straightening their teeth. What’s more, there are a wide variety of braces from which to choose, and each has its advantages.
Choosing the right fit can help you get the most out of teeth straightening for your new smile.
Why Choose Teeth Straightening?
Having straight teeth can give you the smile you have always dreamed of. Straight teeth can also correct your bite, which is how well your teeth come together when you bite and chew. Additionally, teeth-straightening makes brushing and flossing your teeth easier, and good dental hygiene reduces your risk of dental caries (cavities), gum disease, unsightly stains, and even tooth loss.
How Braces Work
Braces move teeth to their optimal position by applying gentle pressure to teeth. This pressure travels down the visible part of the tooth (known as the crown) into the tooth’s root and the jawbone. There, the pressure causes the jawbone tissue in front of the tooth to break down, which allows the tooth to move a little bit; the jawbone tissue behind the tooth rebuilds to be stronger than ever. Dentists refer to this as “bone remodeling.”
Types of Braces
Traditional metal braces
Traditional braces feature metal brackets and archwires. Your dentist adheres the brackets to the surface of your teeth and runs a wire through them to connect them. The archwire applies force to the brackets to move your teeth.
Benefits of traditional braces
- Orthodontists have been using metal braces to straighten their patients’ teeth for decades, so it is a tried-and-true approach
- They apply constant force to teeth without having to worry about it
Drawbacks of traditional braces
- Metal braces can detract from the natural appearance of your smile
- They can make it hard to brush and floss your teeth
- Braces may prevent you from participating in certain activities in which there is a risk of trauma to your mouth
- You cannot eat certain crunchy or sticky foods
When traditional braces may be right for you
- Traditional braces may be right for you if you aren’t worried about the appearance of braces
- You might prefer metal braces, which stay in place until the end of treatment if you are forgetful or have a busy lifestyle
Invisalign
Instead of metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of clear plastic trays to move your teeth. Your dentist uses sophisticated cameras and software to capture images of your mouth and create an individualized orthodontic treatment plan just for you. You’ll then receive a set of personalized, comfortable trays once every couple of weeks; throw away the old trays and start using the new ones!
Benefits of Invisalign
- Invisalign is clear, so nobody will know you are wearing them
- The trays are comfortable
- You can remove them before you eat or drink, so there are no more food restrictions!
- Brushing and flossing is a breeze; simply remove your Invisalign
- Personalized to fit perfectly
Drawbacks of Invisalign
- You’ll need to wear them 20 to 22 hours a day to straighten your teeth successfully
- You may experience discomfort when you start wearing a new tray
When Invisalign is right for you
Invisalign may be right for you if you:
- Are an adult or teenager who doesn’t want visible braces
- Do not want food restrictions to get in the way of straight teeth
- Want to exercise good oral hygiene without struggling with brushing and flossing around the metal brackets and wires
- Want great teeth-straightening results quickly
- You want the right fit for your smile
Family Dentists in Melbourne Florida Can Help You Choose the Right Braces for Your Smile
Artistic Touch Dentistry is the family dentist in Melbourne, Florida, that residents rely on for a healthy, appealing smile. Our Melbourne dentists take a highly individualized approach to helping you choose the right braces for your smile. Call 321.724.1400 to make an appointment with Artistic Touch Dentistry today.