The most popular braces now on the market are clear braces, such as Invisalign and traditional fixed braces. In this blog, we are going to discuss each type of clear and fixed brace to help you decide which braces are better.
Clear Braces
Clear braces as you’ve probably already guessed are braces that are clear. The most common type of clear brace and our chosen brand is Invisalign. Invisalign is an innovative appliance that is custom-made by Invisalign specialists to correct even the most severe of cases.
As well as being clear, Invisalign aligners have some other great benefits; they are removable so there’s no need to worry about breakage when you're eating. They show fast results that can be seen in as little as 2 weeks and they are less likely to break, compared to metal braces.
Fixed Braces
While there is only one type of clear brace, if it’s a fixed appliance you’re after then there are many to choose from here at Oldham, including metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces and functional braces.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are the traditional style of braces that everyone has heard of. If not, then listen up! They are metal braces that, using pressure, gradually straighten your teeth. They are the cheapest, quickest and most effective appliance available.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces can also be classed as a clear, or hidden appliance, however, they are fixed to your teeth. Ceramic braces are made up of clear, or tooth-coloured brackets and metal wires. They work in exactly the same way as metal braces, the only difference being is the material their brackets are made from.
They are great for anyone who wants a speedy straightening process without anyone even knowing you have braces. They are very strong aligners so cause fewer breakages than some weaker appliances.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are slightly different from metal and ceramic braces as they are fitted to the backs of your teeth. Lingual braces are made of gold metal brackets and wires that can, in no way be seen unless you know where to look. Still using pressure, they move your teeth so that they are perfectly aligned.
Lingual braces offer an Incognito straightening process for anyone who doesn’t like the idea of visible appliances.
Functional Braces
Functional braces are metal braces that allow you to ‘function’ while wearing them. This means that they are removable, so like Invisalign, you can still eat and brush your teeth while avoiding breakage. Functional braces are mainly worn to fix the most severe of orthodontic cases, such as malocclusions and irregular bites. Like metal and ceramic braces, functional braces are on the cheaper scale, compared to some appliances.
Functional braces are recommended to younger patients, to encourage their jaw to grow into the best possible position, so that orthognathic surgery isn’t required later in life.
We hope this blog was helpful and gave you an overview of the types of appliances available. If you are interested in any one of the above appliances, then we recommend you get in touch with us to book a consultation!