What are Dental Braces?
Dental braces are like special tools for your teeth. They have wires, brackets, and bands that work together to make your teeth straighter and fix any crookedness. These braces can also help with problems in your jaw, make it easier to chew food, and make your smile look better. Your dentist is the best person to talk to about getting braces because they can recommend the right kind of treatment based on how your teeth are.
Types of Dental Braces
Metal Braces
These are the traditional and widely used type of braces. The metal braces available today are more comfortable and smaller in size than before. They use colorful elastic bands to connect the wires to the braces. These wires make use of your body heat to gently and less painfully shift your teeth into the right position. The good news is that there is no age restriction for using metal braces. People of all ages can opt for them to achieve straighter teeth.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are a type of braces featuring transparent brackets. They are designed to match the color of your teeth, making them blend in more naturally. In terms of shape and size, they are similar to traditional metal braces. These braces are a popular choice among older teenagers and adults who value aesthetics because they are less conspicuous on the teeth.
Sometimes, tooth-colored wires are also used with ceramic braces, making them even less noticeable. However, due to their less prominent appearance, they require more care and protection compared to metal braces, as they are larger and somewhat delicate. As a result, they are often used more frequently on the upper teeth than on the lower ones.
How long do I need to wear my Braces?
How long you’ll need braces depends on:
- How crooked your teeth are.
- How much space is in your mouth.
- How far your teeth need to move.
- The health of your teeth, gums, and bones.
- How well you follow your orthodontist’s advice.
