Are you considering braces for healthier teeth or a more perfect smile? You’re not alone. More adults than ever are seeking orthodontic options for adults to achieve their perfect smile. And with advances in technology, braces are now more comfortable, quicker, and less visible than ever. So the question remains, which braces are best for you? What follows are your key options to assist you in making your decision.
Top Braces Options for Adults: From Metal to Invisible Aligners
Traditional Metal Braces
When most people consider braces, they consider traditional metal braces. These are metal braces and wires made of stainless steel, cemented onto teeth and adjusted occasionally in an effort to push them slowly into position. While they are not the least visible option, they are still among the most effective options for fairly challenging orthodontic cases, such as severe misalignment or bite problems.
One of the largest advantages of metal braces is that they’re very robust. They withstand treatment quite well, even in difficult cases with large corrections. The availability of customization options, such as colored bands, also makes metal braces more enjoyable and expressive to wear. The drawback is that they are the most visible type of braces, and that may not be what adults seek.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are identical to metal braces, with the sole distinction being the aesthetic one. They possess brackets made from tooth-colored ceramic and thus are less conspicuous and blend with the color of your teeth.
For adults who would rather have a treatment option without the noticeable appearance of metal braces, ceramic braces are a very sought-after choice. They present a compromise between form and function. That being said, one should keep in mind that ceramic braces are a bit more prone to breaking and also will stain if not properly cleaned. They are a bit more expensive due to the materials.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces provide one of the least conspicuous fixed orthodontic treatments ever developed. Brackets are bonded to the back of your teeth (the lingual side), so they are essentially invisible from the outside.
Although they are unmatched in discretion, lingual braces take longer to acclimatize to. They will be less comfortable for certain patients to begin with, as wires and brackets will be against the tongue. Lingual braces take longer for orthodontists to install and adjust, so they are a more costly purchase. Despite these minor disadvantages, most adults take advantage of this option because of the cosmetic benefits.
Clear Aligners
Invisalign and Spark clear aligners have revolutionized adult orthodontic treatment. Removable, nearly invisible trays offer maximum aesthetics and convenience. With a series of aligners uniquely designed for you, your teeth are gently moved into perfect position without wires or brackets.
Adults often prefer clear aligners because they are not visible, and they can be removed in order to eat, drink, or brush teeth. There are fewer dietary limitations, and oral hygiene is easier compared to traditional braces. Clear aligners are perfect for mild to moderate orthodontic scenarios, but newer systems have extended their use. The largest consideration is that they require very high compliance because aligners must be worn for 20–22 hours a day if the best final result is to be achieved.
Find the Correct Braces for Your Smile
With all of the technologically advanced dental braces options for adults available these days, there’s never been a greater time to be an adult with braces. From the durability of metal braces to the looks of clear aligners, there’s something to cater to every type, every lifestyle, and every dental need.
Selecting the best type of braces for adults is based on your orthodontic needs, budget, and how discreet you would like your treatment to be. Whether you’re looking for adult braces in Palm Beach or elsewhere, the best next step is to make an appointment with a qualified orthodontist. They can assess your specific needs and guide you to the perfect fit for your smile.