Orthodontic treatments have come a long way in recent years, with patients having more and more options. Traditional braces are still a great option for patients looking for an effective way to straighten their teeth. However, traditional braces have some drawbacks, such as their appearance and the fact that they can take some getting used to. Patients should consult with an orthodontist to decide which treatment is right for them.
What Are Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces are the metal brackets and wires most often associated with orthodontic treatment. Metal brackets are bonded with special dental cement to the front of each tooth. Then the orthodontist attaches metal wires to the brackets to gently move your teeth into the desired position.
Benefits of Traditional Braces
While the most obvious benefit of traditional braces is that they can effectively straighten teeth, several other benefits are often overlooked. Here are some other benefits of traditional metal braces:
Typically Less Expensive Than Other Options:
One of the biggest benefits of traditional braces is that they are typically less expensive than other orthodontic options, such as Invisalign. Traditional braces are a great option for patients looking for an effective but affordable way to straighten their teeth.
Able To Correct More Complex Orthodontic Issues:
Another benefit of traditional braces is that they can typically correct more complex orthodontic issues when compared to other orthodontic treatments. This is because traditional braces can exert more force on the teeth compared to clear aligners, making them effective at correcting issues such as crowding, spacing, and overbites. Traditional braces are a great option for patients with more complex orthodontic issues.
Able To Be Customized To the Individual Patient
Another benefit of traditional braces is that they can be customized to the individual patient. This is because traditional braces are made from metal brackets and wires which can be bent and shaped to fit the individual’s mouth. Traditional braces are a great option for patients who want a customized orthodontic treatment.
Drawbacks of Traditional Braces
Of course, traditional braces are not without their drawbacks. The most commonly talked about annoyances of traditional braces include:
They Are Not Very Aesthetically Pleasing:
The most obvious drawback of traditional braces is that they are not very aesthetically pleasing. Metal braces are highly visible, which can be a dealbreaker for some patients. If you’re self-conscious about your appearance, traditional braces may not be your best option.
They Can Be Uncomfortable:
Another common idea about traditional braces is that they can be quite uncomfortable. With this said, patients typically become accustomed to the feeling of braces after just a few days.
They Can Make Eating Certain Foods Difficult:
Another downside of traditional braces is that they can make eating certain foods difficult. Hard or sticky foods can get caught in the braces and be difficult to remove.
They Require More Time And Effort To Keep Clean:
Another drawback of traditional braces is that they require more time and effort to keep clean. Brushing and flossing carefully to avoid getting food stuck in the braces is important. In addition, you’ll need to see your orthodontist more often to have the braces adjusted and tightened.
Overall, traditional braces are still a great and effective orthodontic option for straightening your teeth. If you are considering traditional braces, make sure to discuss the pros and cons with your orthodontist to decide if they’re right for you.
Comparison of Traditional Braces to Their Competitors: Invisalign & Clear Ceramic Braces
When choosing the right orthodontic treatment, patients have more options. In addition to traditional braces, there are now clear ceramic braces and Invisalign – a clear aligner system virtually invisible.
So, how do you choose? Here is a quick comparison of traditional braces, Invisalign, and clear ceramic braces:
- Traditional braces are made of metal brackets and wires attached to the teeth. They are the most common braces and have been used for many years. Traditional braces are sometimes less expensive than other treatments.
- Invisalign is the most aesthetically pleasing option. Invisalign is a newer type of orthodontic treatment made of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made for each individual. Therefore, they are virtually invisible and are the most aesthetically pleasing option.
- Clear ceramic braces are a good middle ground because they are not as noticeable as metal braces. Clear ceramic braces are made of clear brackets and tooth-colored wires and can provide the same kind of effectiveness as traditional braces and Invisalign.
Final Word
Traditional braces are still a great orthodontic option. They can be customized to the individual patient and effectively correct more complex dental issues. Thinking about orthodontic treatment? Contact the team at Dream Orthodontics to learn about your different options!