Have you been thinking about exploring orthodontics in 2022? You’re in luck! There’s never been a better time to find out how treatment can transform your smile. Modern braces are more comfortable and affordable than ever before, with the ability to successfully treat a wide range of orthodontic issues!
We offer patients a variety of treatment options here at Orthodontics of South Miami, from metal braces to Invisalign clear aligners. Braces are consistently one of our top treatments, and with good reason! Let’s take a look at the different types of braces available and how they can help you achieve a healthier smile.
The basics of braces
Traditional braces are composed of brackets that are affixed directly to the surface of the teeth. A wire runs through these brackets, which are usually made of a metal or ceramic material. The gradual adjustments we make to this wire move the teeth where we want them to go. We also use tiny rubber bands, or elastics, to create a controlled amount of pressure that eventually results in a straighter smile.
Braces also help reshape the jawline by dissolving bone that is then replaced with new bone growth. It’s this growth that will provide long-term support for the teeth in their new positions! This cost-effective solution is capable of correcting many common orthodontic problems, including
- difficulties with chewing or biting
- misaligned teeth or jaws
- excessive wear and tear of the teeth
- teeth that have excessive spacing
- overlapping or crowded teeth
When you schedule your complimentary consultation with our Miami office, Dr. Ross or Dr. Rothenberg will listen to your concerns and examine your mouth. If treatment is indicated, your doctor will build a customized treatment plan for you based on your specific needs, lifestyle, and goals. This will include the treatment method best suited to your unique smile!
What are the different types of braces available?
Thanks to recent advancements in orthodontics, we’re able to offer patients more treatment options than ever before. For a total smile transformation, consider the following types of braces.
As one of the most recognizable symbols of orthodontics, these traditional braces are also the most common type of treatment. Thanks to a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other high-quality metals, the brackets are very durable and long-lasting. Today’s braces use brackets that are much lighter and more comfortable than they used to be, and they can also be customized with fun-colored elastics!
Metal braces deliver excellent results and are especially useful in more severe or complicated cases. They don’t require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments do, so they’re often a slightly more affordable option. It’s the overall strength, durability, and cost-effective nature of braces that keep them at the top of the treatment list, year after year.
Clear braces are also known as ceramic braces, tooth-colored braces, or esthetic braces. They function in much the same way metal braces do but use brackets that are made from a semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic material. These brackets are about the same size and shape as metal braces, but they’re better able to blend in with a patient’s natural smile. When paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored elastics, they’re an incredibly subtle way to straighten your teeth!
While ceramic braces are durable, the material they’re made from is sometimes prone to chipping or cracking. Since metal braces can tolerate more pressure than ceramic ones, they may be a better option for those who have severe corrections that need to be made. Clear braces also tend to cost slightly more than their metal counterparts. We believe they are generally better suited to adult and older teen patients for these reasons.
Like metal and clear braces, lingual braces have brackets attached to the surface of the teeth. There is one notable difference, however! The brackets used with lingual braces are placed on the back sides of the teeth facing the tongue, rather than the front of the teeth. This makes them virtually invisible, which can be especially attractive for image-conscious teens and adults!
Before lingual braces are placed, we will take a digital impression using a scanner. This allows us to customize the brackets and wires to fit each patient’s mouth. It’s essential to have the perfect fit from the very start when it comes to putting lingual braces on, so we use a custom tray to cement all the brackets to the teeth at the same time. Once the lingual braces are placed, they work in much the same way as traditional braces do to gradually move the teeth into the desired positions.
All three of these options can be a great fit for anyone looking for straighter teeth, improved oral health, and a fully functioning mouth! Keep in mind that every smile is unique, and what works for one patient may not be a good fit for another. This is why our team is so committed to providing personalized care that will give you exceptional results you’ll enjoy for years to come!
Find the right braces for you at Orthodontics of South Miami
We go beyond simply straightening smiles here at Orthodontics of South Miami. Our goal is to give you a rewarding and stress-free orthodontic experience, from your first visit to the last. Are you ready to take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted? Get in touch today to schedule a FREE consultation with us and let’s get started!