Having genes that deliver crooked teeth is far more common than you may realize. In fact, research has proven that in the United States, at least four million people at a time are wearing braces, and those are just the ones who sought out treatment for their misaligned dentition. If you or your child struggle with dental misalignment and you’re thinking about seeking orthodontic treatment, you are not alone.
Orthodontic technology has come a long way since its invention. In addition to metal braces, there are several different types of braces to choose from, such as clear aligners and clear brackets. At Cornerstone Dental, Dr. Goodwill can help you achieve a straighter and more aesthetically pleasing smile with your choice of orthodontic therapy.
To learn more about the different types of braces we offer, call our Fargo, ND, dental office at 701-237-3583 and schedule a consultation with one of our dentistss.
Determining the Right Type for You
Traditional Braces
Made from a lightweight, high-grade stainless steel, traditional braces are attached to the front of each individual tooth, with dental cement. Each bracket is connected with stainless steel wires that apply pressure to the brackets, slowly realigning and moving teeth to the correct position. Since their invention, traditional braces are now smaller, lighter weight, and use heat-activated arch wires to move teeth into place. This allows teeth to move quicker, with less pain. In most cases, treatment lasts anywhere from 18 to 36 months.
Some of the pros and cons to traditional braces include:
- Affordable
- Effective for all types of dental misalignment and occlusion
- Limits foods you can eat
- More noticeable than other orthodontic treatments
- Treatment time lasts longer than other types
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces use the same technology as traditional braces. However, they are attached to the back of the teeth, making them less noticeable. Treatment time is very similar to traditional braces. Although hidden, the cons outweigh the pros for this type of treatment:
- Tougher to clean
- Not as affordable as other orthodontic treatments
- Longer treatment time
- Routine adjustments are more difficult to maneuver
- Can be uncomfortable
- Less effective for severe dental misalignment
Ceramic Brackets
Ceramic brackets look and function very similarly to traditional braces. However, the brackets are made with a clear or white ceramic and feature wires that naturally blend with teeth. This is a popular choice for adults looking for an effective but less visible orthodontic treatment. The pros and cons include:
- Just as effective as traditional braces
- Less visible than traditional braces
- More costly than traditional braces
- Brackets may discolor over time
Clear Aligners
Invisalign® and ClearCorrect are two companies that dentistss use to provide clear, removable aligner trays for their patients. This type of orthodontic treatment provides a series of BPA-free plastic aligner trays to treat mild to moderate dental misalignment. You will begin with a series of customized trays, with each tray to be worn every two weeks. The dentists will typically see you every six weeks to help monitor and maintain treatment. Clear aligners are a beneficial choice for both teens and adults who want a less noticeable option to straightening their teeth. In most cases, treatment takes about 18 to 24 months.
The pros and cons to clear aligners include:
- Virtually invisible
- Removable for cleaning and ease of eating meals
- More comfortable than traditional braces
- Only available for adults and teenagers
- Might be lost, damaged, or misplaced when not in use
- Not as effective for severe dental misalignment
Call Us Today
If you are interested in seeking orthodontic treatment to straighten your smile, call our Fargo, ND, dental office at 701-237-3583 and schedule your consultation with Dr. Goodwill.