Types Of Braces

Types of Braces

Braces are used by dentists in order to correct problems with teeth alignment. A dentist who specializes in correcting problems with teeth alignment (called malocclusions) is properly called an orthodontist. He is the one who diagnoses your problem and determine whether or not you need any of the types of braces to correct it.

Sometimes, the malocclusion might be so complex that none of the types of braces might be enough to correct it. In this case, surgery might be required. However, most kinds of malocclusions can be treated with any of the types of braces.

There is also another method for correcting malocclusions. That is, an orthodontist may require you to wear retainers in order to correct a minor problem. A retainer is similar to teeth braces in that they help keep the teeth in their proper places.

However, while the types of braces are designed to address a particular problem, retainers have a much more general scope. Braces have a two-fold function: to move the teeth to their proper places and keep them aligned.

Retainers, on the other hand, are designed to prevent the teeth from moving out of alignment. Orthodontists often recommend the continued use of retainers even after your braces are off.

What are the types of braces?

As previously mentioned, there are many types of braces recommended by orthodontist to correct malocclusions. Often, they differ according to the type of problem they are meant to correct. But in general, the types of braces are as follows:

* Brackets

Brackets are the most common types of braces. They are made of thin wires wound around the upper or lower set of teeth with a “bracket” holding each tooth in place. These brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth with the use of rubber bands.

Brackets may be made of stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic. Ceramic and plastic brackets are not quite as noticeable as steel brackets, but the disadvantage is that they have the tendency to stain.

* Lingual-Type Braces

These types of braces differ only from brackets in that rather than being attached to the front of the teeth, they are attached to the back. In this way, they are hidden from view.

* Traditional Bands

As the name itself implies, this type of braces are already outdated. They create that “full metal” look to your teeth when worn because the braces consist of metal brackets that are soldered to metal bands which are in turn wrapped around each tooth.

There is a new type of braces that are popular among adults who want nicer smiles. Invisalign is a very interesting system of correcting malocclusions. It does the job of braces fairly competently but with the benefit of being “invisible.” This is because the material is transparent, which makes it practically unnoticeable.