Five Different Types Of Braces

If you are unsatisfied with your smile or are perhaps even struggling with the impact of crooked teeth, braces can be a real life-changer. There are a number of different methods of orthodontic treatment to realign your teeth, with different braces suitable depending on the age of the patient and severity of work. Below, we take a closer look at five of the most common types of braces, highlighting their key differences.

Metal (Traditional) Braces

The most common and traditional option for braces across the world, metal braces have existed for over a century, with today’s 21st-century metal braces a far cry from the bulky, “brace-face” designs of the 70s and 80s. With significant advancements in technology, braces have become smaller, more comfortable, faster and more effective and are extremely popular for both children, adolescents and even adults.

Braces are applied to the teeth and connected via a wire, which is then tied to the braces using elastic ties. This process is repeated every 4-6 weeks to help make adjustments and move your teeth in the right direction.

Ceramic Braces

Constructed from a clear, tooth coloured material, ceramic braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but with reduced visibility and improved discretion. Ceramic braces are popular among adults and adolescents, due to this discretion, as well as their affordability, helping to straighten your teeth in a low-key, cost-effective manner. They are, however, slightly larger than their traditional counterparts and may stain easily when exposed to sugary diets and poor brushing techniques.

Self-Ligating Braces

Available in both metal and ceramic materials, self-ligating braces work similarly to the above, relying on a wire to move teeth. However, instead of using elastic rubber ties, self-ligating braces will instead use doors or clips to hold the wire in place, which can result in shorter appointment times, as they are easier to adjust. This makes them ideal for patients who are sensitive to discomfort or may have a condition that affects their ability to sit still for an extended time.

Lingual Braces

A relatively uncommon and highly specialised method of orthodontic treatment, lingual braces are installed behind the teeth, out of sight and fully customised to your individual teeth. This form of treatment is typically carried out by the most experienced orthodontists, due to its rarity and specialised nature, but it is a practice that has become more common over the years, as more people crave the perfect smile without the visual deterrent of traditional braces.



Clear Aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners are a recent addition to the orthodontic game, and since the introduction of ‘Invisalign’ in the early 2000s, has steadily become a highly popular solution for a speedier, more comfortable and less distracting method of orthodontic treatment. Clear aligners are ideal for cosmetic touch-ups and maintaining a healthy smile, or for retaining the work carried out by braces you’ve just had removed, but are not effective for more severe dental work or realignment.

Looking for a local dentist in Southampton? At Acorn Dental Health, we provide comprehensive dental services, including orthodontic treatments, teeth whitening, teeth straightening and dentures. With over 60 years of experience in dentistry, we provide a wide range of services. Get in touch today.