Years ago, people who wanted straighter teeth had only one choice: traditional metal braces. While there’s no doubt that these dental appliances did (and still do) work, people who wore braces often found them uncomfortable and difficult to clean – not to mention embarrassing. Fortunately, dental technology has come a long way since then. Today, people who want a straighter smile have a variety of alternatives from which to choose. Here are some modern teeth-straightening methods:
- Ceramic braces – These appliances are very similar to traditional braces with one very important difference: they’re made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material. They work in exactly the same way as metal braces and in about the same period of time, but they’re much less noticeable than the traditional alternative. Although ceramic braces are definitely less embarrassing than metal appliances, they are still difficult to clean and many people find them uncomfortable to wear.
- Lingual braces – These appliances are applied to the inside surface of the teeth, which makes them virtually invisible to other people. Lingual braces are effective, but because they are worn on the inside surface of the teeth, some patients experience irritation on their cheeks and tongues. They work in much the same way as traditional braces, and in about the same amount of time.
- Clear aligner trays – One of the most innovative teeth-straightening methods available to 21st century dental patients are clear aligner trays, the most popular of which is Invisalign®. These clear plastic trays fit directly over the top of the patient’s teeth and can be removed by the wearer to eat meals and brush and floss. Another advantage is that the clear aligner trays are virtually invisible to other people. This, in addition to the fact that the trays can be removed for easier dental hygiene tasks and more comfortable eating, make Invisalign® a common choice for many people who want a straighter smile. The trays need to be worn at least 23 hours a day for several months to work properly. While it’s true that aligner trays are very effective for some orthodontic issues, they may not be the best choice for everyone.
If you would like to enjoy a straighter, more beautiful smile, talk to your dentist or orthodontist today. Modern technology provides dental patients with so many more options than years ago. Thanks to these advancements in dental and orthodontic treatments, virtually anyone can enjoy a straighter smile without the embarrassment and discomfort of traditional metal braces.
