There are now more options than ever for teenagers to reliably and quickly straighten their teeth. Whether you simply want the best results or strongly desire a more discreet treatment, there is an option for you.
Here, we discuss the various types of braces for teens, highlighting the differences between each and when one may be a better option than another. Patients should also speak with a dental professional to make the most informed treatment decision. The most popular types of braces for teens are metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners.
Metal braces, also called traditional braces, are trusted options that have been around for decades. They are what most people think about when they hear the term, “braces treatment.” They involve the use of metal brackets and wires.
The metal brackets attach to each tooth. A metal wire is then put through the brackets and tightened by the dentist. Over time, the brackets and wires shift teeth into optimal positions. As teeth shift, they are tightened by the dentist on follow-up visits until the patient achieves an ideal alignment. Metal braces are ideal for teens with mild and severe misalignments.
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces in that they use brackets and wires in the same way. However, the difference is that the brackets are a tooth-colored ceramic color. This helps them blend in with the natural shade of the teeth, making them a more subtle option. Getting ceramic braces is an ideal solution for teens who may otherwise feel insecure or self-conscious about how their smile would look with metal braces.
Lingual braces work similarly to metal and ceramic braces. However, rather than attaching to the front, visible surfaces of teeth, they attach to the backs of the teeth. This enables the patient to maintain a natural smile. In fact, other people are not likely to notice that they are even wearing braces at all. However, this is a more complex treatment for dentists, and subsequently, they may cost more than alternative options.
Clear aligners are an alternative to braces. For those who are eligible for clear aligners, they are an ideal choice. These transparent plastic trays are placed over the teeth, and they slowly pull and push the teeth into the optimal alignment. However, they are not as well-suited to treating severe misalignments as traditional braces.
Here at our orthodontic practice, we specialize in braces for teens. If your teen (or you!) are in need of a straighter smile and improved oral health through teeth alignment treatment, then please do contact us today to schedule a consultation visit.
Request an appointment here: https://www.ucsmilesortho.com or call UC Smiles Orthodontics at (210) 672-1054 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Do you have an emergency orthodontist? When someone has crooked teeth they need straightened or are experiencing certain problems with their teeth and/or jaw, it is necessary for them to see an orthodontist. They specialize in orthodontic dentistry and have special training that allows them to help prevent, as well as treat, dental and facial…
Clear braces for teens and traditional braces are two popular options for teenagers who need teeth straightening treatments. Braces are the first effective procedure for straightening teeth and have been used since the 1800s.Virtually everyone on the planet grew up with someone who wore braces, and that is a testament to how effective these devices…
Phase 1 orthodontics typically starts around the ages of six to nine. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing children in for a bite evaluation no later than their seventh birthday. At this point, their bites should be developed enough to identify potential problems, and the soft structures of their facial structures are easier to…
Teeth straightening for adults has become more popular thanks to clear plastic aligners. These aligners give adults the opportunity to straighten teeth without anyone noticing they are wearing orthodontics devices. These are incredibly convenient to use, and so even people who are very busy find that they make it possible to straighten teeth and improve…