At Lakeland Family Dentistry, we receive many patients who desire to straighten their teeth through clear or traditional braces. Orthodontics is the dental specialty of correcting misaligned teeth and bites to create an overall healthier and straighter smile. For these patients who wish to straighten their teeth, the choice of which treatment to do depends on the effect the orthodontic treatment will have on your appearance, the impact on your budget, and your desired outcome.
At our Flowood, Mississippi office, we offer two types of braces for our patients to choose from, clear braces and traditional (metal) braces. To learn more about each type and how either could benefit you and your lifestyle, please keep reading.
Clear Braces
When patients hear the term, clear braces, their minds automatically go to clear plastic aligners such as Invisalign and ClearCorrect. Each one of these clear orthodontics consists of using a series of custom-made, clear aligner sets. They work by pushing or pulling your teeth into a position that matches the clear aligner. With both Invisalign and ClearCorrect we refer to them both as clear braces.
When looking into clear braces as your orthodontic treatment, it is important to note that they usually cost more than the traditional braces option. Although they may cost more, there are many benefits to choosing a clear aligner treatment compared to the traditional braces, including:
- Clear aligners through ClearCorrect and Invisalign are virtually invisible which will allow the patient to avoid any unwanted attention that can come with traditional braces.
- Many of our adult patients prefer a clear braces option over traditional ones because it can maintain a professional appearance in the work environment.
- Aligners can be removed to eat and brush your teeth. Food is not limited and great oral hygiene can continue as it did before orthodontic treatment.
Traditional Braces
Traditional or metal braces are the most common form of orthodontic treatment due to their price and because many teenagers choose this orthodontic option. The difference between traditional braces and clear braces is that with traditional braces metal brackets and wires are used to move the teeth into the planned and desired position.
Brackets are bonded to the outer surface of each tooth and then attached all together through arch wires. The dental professional will tighten the wires at regular appointments to continue the movement of the teeth. Traditional braces are great for patients of any age although the most common age group that benefits from these braces is teenagers.
No matter how many new orthodontic treatments are developed, traditional braces will be around forever because they are durable and they work. They have the ability to change complex or severe cases.
If you have been desiring to enhance or straighten your smile, please contact Lakeland Family Dentistry of Flowood, Mississippi, to be seen by one of our dental professionals. We will assist you in deciding which orthodontic treatment is best for you and your teeth.