People usually think of old-school metal brackets and wires that have been around for decades when they think about getting braces. But the truth is, orthodontic treatment has come a long way since then. These days, we can fix the same problems in all sorts of different ways. And it’s not just about traditional metal braces, although they’re still one of the best and most flexible options we offer. With metal braces, small metal brackets are glued to each tooth and linked by wires, which we adjust from time to time to slowly get your teeth into the right places. Happily, today’s metal braces are a lot smaller and more comfy than they used to be. They can fix even the toughest orthodontic problems, like really bad crowding and major bite misalignments. A lot of kids and teens really enjoy picking out coloured elastic bands to go with their wires, which lets them put their own personal touch on their braces. Plus metal braces are usually the most budget-friendly option, so that’s a big plus for a lot of families. Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, corrects severe jaw or bite issues that braces alone cannot fix. This treatment enhances both function and appearance, creating long-term improvements in your smile and facial balance.
Ceramic braces do basically the same thing as metal braces, but they’re made with clear or tooth-coloured brackets that blend in with your teeth. You can even get wires that match the colour of your teeth for the full stealth look. This option is super popular with teenagers and adults who want all the benefits of traditional braces without having to wear something that stands out. Ceramic braces are a mite bigger than metal braces though, and they can be a bit more fragile, so you have to take a bit more care with them to stop them breaking. They can be a bit pricier too, but a lot of patients think it’s worth it for the extra bit of discretion. Invisalign aligners gently move teeth into alignment without metal braces. Each Invisalign tray is clear, comfortable, and custom-made, allowing patients to remove them easily for meals or brushing. This treatment offers a discreet and effective way to achieve a confident smile.
Clear aligners like Invisalign are super popular, especially among adults and teens who care about how they look. They’re essentially a set of clear plastic trays that are custom-made for your teeth and they fit over them. They nudge your teeth into place over time, by a slow process of moving them into the right position. You wear each new set of these aligners for about a week or two before moving on to the next one in the series. The best thing about them is they’re almost invisible when you wear them, and you can pop them out for meals, brushing your teeth, or when you’re at a special occasion. However, they do need a lot of self-discipline, because they only work if you wear them for at least 22 hours a day. They work okay for a lot of things, but fixed braces are probably a better choice if you’ve got pretty complicated orthodontic problems, they give you more precision and control.
Lingual braces are a sneaky option because the brackets and wires are on the backs of your teeth, hidden from view. People who just won’t do visible orthodontic gear will love them, because no one can see them when you smile or talk. But the mechanics all work pretty much the same as regular braces, it’s just that they need special training and custom fitting to get set up right. Lingual braces can be pretty pricey, and they can also make it a bit tricky to speak, and you might get a little tongue-ache at first. They’re a good choice for people who really want to be invisible, though, and are willing to put in the extra time and cash to make it happen.
Self-ligating braces are pretty much like regular braces, but instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place, they use tiny clips or doors to keep it where it needs to be. This design can reduce some of the friction, and might actually mean shorter trips to the dentist because you don’t have to get your elastic bands changed all the time. Some studies say they might even work a little quicker in some cases, but the differences are usually pretty small. They come in metal or ceramic, and they usually cost about the same as regular braces.
There are loads of things we take into account during your consultation to help figure out which type of braces would be the best fit for you. The severity of your orthodontic problems is a big factor. For example, some problems need the super precise control that traditional or lingual braces offer, while others might be fine with clear aligners. How old you are plays a part too, because younger kids still have baby teeth and need different approaches compared to teens or adults.
What’s your lifestyle like? If you play contact sports, any type of brace requires a mouthguard, though you can take out your removable aligners during the game. If you’ve got a wind instrument, you might need to get used to your new gear first. Some people’s jobs might mean they want more discreet options, and how diligent you are about following the rules is a big factor with all the removable options.
Budget is obviously a factor, most families are on a budget, even for orthodontic treatment. We’re happy to work with you on payment plans, and help you understand how the different options fit into your wallet. We give super clear pricing information, and help you figure out what your investment will be for each option, so you can make a choice that works for you.
At Marrecau Orthodontics, we don’t push people toward any one type of braces. We just do a proper assessment, listen to your worries and what you want, and give you straight up honest recommendations about which approach will work best for you. We explain the pros and cons of each option, so you can see what matters most to you. Some people just want to get it done as quick as possible, while others care more about looking good during treatment. Some want cheap options, while others are happy to invest more for the extra benefits. Every one of these priorities is valid, and our job is to help you figure it all out so you can make a choice that you feel good about.
We’ve been fixing teeth with all sorts of different types of braces here in Parkland for a long time now, and have seen great results with each approach when we get it right. If you’re thinking about treatment for yourself, or for your kid, we invite you to book an appointment for a consultation where we can have a look at what you need, talk through all the options in detail, and answer any questions you’ve got about how different types of braces work and what you can expect from each one.