Adult Braces: What Are Your Options?
There are more adult braces options available now than ever before. Adults can now effectively (and discreetly) straighten their smile in a relatively short amount of time. In this review, we discuss the options that patients have for achieving their ideal smile through braces treatment.
What options are available for adult braces?
The most popular types of adult braces options are metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners. Self-ligating braces can also be an optimal solution for some adult patients. Let us dive deeper into each option and highlight when they may be preferred by patients and recommended by orthodontic and dental professionals.
Metal braces
Metal braces are perhaps the most well-known form of braces treatment. They involve metal brackets and wires: The brackets are attached to the visible surface of each tooth, and the metal wires run through the brackets. The orthodontic professional periodically tightens the wires, and teeth slowly shift into the optimal position over time. Metal braces are not as discreet as alternative options, but they are highly effective in treating all types of teeth misalignment concerns.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces in that they involve brackets and wires. However, the brackets are ceramic (rather than metal), creating a more discreet appearance that many adults prefer. The treatment time frame and effectiveness of ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, though ceramic braces may cost slightly more.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces attach to the backs of the teeth, rather than on the front, visible surfaces, like metal and ceramic braces do. This creates a more appealing option for many adult patients, as other people are not likely to notice that the patient is wearing braces at all. The treatment time frame is similar to lingual braces, and it is also effective for most moderate to severe misalignments.
Clear aligners
Clear aligners are removable transparent trays that the patient wears over their teeth for over 20 hours each day. They are far less noticeable than metal and ceramic braces, and the patient can remove them while they eat, floss, and brush their teeth. The average treatment time is also faster with clear aligners. However, clear aligners are not ideal for every patient. They are primarily used for adults who have mild to moderate misalignment.
Self-ligating braces
Self-ligating braces are an intriguing alternative to traditional metal braces. They allow for fewer adjustments, and patients often report feeling less pressure with self-ligating braces than with alternative options. They are, however, highly noticeable to others (similar to traditional metal braces).
Considering adult braces? Contact our orthodontic office today
Here at our orthodontic office, we offer a range of adult braces solutions, and we personalize the treatment plan for all our patients. If you would like to learn more and get the treatment process started, feel free to contact us today and schedule a time for a consultation visit with our friendly team.
Request an appointment here: https://universalcity.ucsmilesortho.com or call UC Smiles Orthodontics at (210) 593-7623 for an appointment in our Universal City office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Types of Braces in Universal City, TX.
Related Posts
If you are considering teeth straightening treatment, ceramic braces are one of the options available for you. An orthodontist may suggest braces for many reasons. Thanks to innovations in dental technology, braces, especially more modern versions like ceramic braces, are much more comfortable to wear. Compared to traditional metal braces, ceramic braces are less noticeable…
Curious about orthodontic treatment? Read on to learn more. Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws make for a healthy and functional smile. Many people are lucky to have naturally straight teeth, but others require orthodontic intervention to correct overcrowding, gaps, or misalignment. In some cases, orthodontic therapy can extend far beyond repositioning the teeth in…
Looking for a braces specialist? Read on to learn more. You might be hesitant to see a braces specialist if you already see a general dentist regularly. In some cases, patients have an individual situation that requires consulting a specialist. Generally, these professionals have more experience in orthodontics and a consultation with them might make…
Invisalign® is a modern teeth-straightening option that serves as an alternative to metal braces. Invisalign eliminates the need for brackets and wires; instead, it uses a series of clear plastic aligners to realign the teeth. Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign, like a straighter smile, there are also health…