Understanding Different Types of Braces

August 9, 2023

Category: Braces 101

Tags: Types

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Different types of braces exist since no two sets of teeth and dental structures are exactly the same. What helps straighten one person’s teeth may not help another, and a one-size-fits-all metric is not useful for providing high-quality orthodontic treatment. That’s why there are many varieties of braces being offered now and many more in development. The world of braces is expansive and exciting, as it means you or your kids can have a choice and straighten your smile in the way you prefer.

Why So Many Types of Braces?

There are many reasons why having a wide selection of braces is a good and necessary thing. The different options each have unique advantages, which means that everyone can get the treatment they need to address their specific dental issues. Braces should meet the following requirements for you.

Braces Should Fit Your Lifestyle

Getting braces can seem like a fairly uniform procedure, but some options are more suited for certain lifestyles than others, and your braces should match yours. For instance, if you want to have fewer restrictions when it comes to eating, an invisible aligner will be helpful because they’re removable, which means that you can eat foods that may break or get stuck in traditional braces. If you’re looking for shorter appointment times due to a busy schedule, you may be more suited for self-ligating braces. Your orthodontist will work with you to decide what works best for your situation.

Braces Should Match Your Aesthetics and Personal Expression

For many people, their ability to express themselves through the things they wear is important. Having braces can be a good way to show some personality and style, which is why many metal braces can be customized with colorful bands. Alternatively, you may be looking for a different style of braces that has an aesthetic or design you prefer. Your orthodontist can help you find the braces that look the best if that’s something you’re concerned about.

Braces Should Be Suited to the Wearer’s Age

Young children may need early orthodontic intervention to straighten their teeth once it becomes more obvious what their dental structure is like. However, not all braces will work for younger kids. Others are designed to suit children and the changes their mouths will go through as they age and grow.

Meanwhile, while braces tend to be associated with early childhood or adolescence, adults can have braces too. If you believe that you need braces, then you’ll want to find a type that works best for your unique situation and lifestyle. For example, adults often gravitate towards clear braces and aligners that fix their teeth without drawing attention to them.

Suggested Reading: What Is Early Ortho Intervention?

Types of Braces

There is a wide variety of braces to choose from. The most popular types are:

Metallic braces
Ceramic braces
Invisible aligners

Self-ligating braces
Lingual braces

These each have their own unique benefits but may not work for some people in some situations. However, this means each style of braces works best for certain people in certain situations. That’s a good thing because it means that people can choose the braces type that best fits their own personal needs, so they can get the treatment that they need while addressing any unique treatment hurdles along the way. Ultimately, while any type of braces may work for a particular orthodontic issue, there is likely a type that will best suit the individual’s needs and preferences.

It’s important to discuss each type of braces with your orthodontist to determine which type will work best for your oral health as well as your lifestyle. That way, you’ll know you’re making an informed decision and choosing something that you can trust to help your teeth without causing any serious disruptions for you.

Metallic Braces

Metallic braces, which are the traditional bracket braces that tend to come to mind when you think of braces, are so common for a reason. Not only are they an affordable option, but they’re reliable, with tried-and-true results spanning several years. High-quality metallic braces are made of a strong material that can be easily adjusted to fit the changing shape of your mouth. Additionally, as technology develops, metal braces are becoming faster acting, more comfortable, and more stylish.

However, not everyone is suited for metal braces. Some people may prefer a type of braces that aren’t as noticeable, as metal braces are typically the most visible in the mouth. Others may prefer a braces option that can be removed or an option that makes it easier to complete eating, brushing, and flossing. The wires required to tighten metal braces can be both painful and annoying to wear, especially after adjustments, and may need to be repaired from time to time.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar in design to traditional metal braces, but with one main difference: instead of using metal brackets, they use clear ceramic brackets that blend in with the teeth. This makes them less obvious and more suited for people who wish to use discreet orthodontic treatment. In some cases, you may be given tooth-colored wires to make your ceramic braces even less obvious.

However, ceramic braces have their downsides as well. They’re more expensive than traditional braces. Additionally, they’re slightly larger than metal braces, which can make them more restrictive and difficult to wear. Finally, they must be taken care of properly; failure to eat right or clean your teeth correctly means that the ceramic braces can stain and become less discreet. This means that ceramic braces may not be suitable for people who want a budget-friendly, minimally-restrictive, or extremely durable option.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces are similar to metal braces and ceramic braces in that they also use a wire and bracket system to straighten teeth. The major difference is that, instead of using rubber ties to keep the wire in place, self-ligating braces use a system of clips or doors to do the same thing. This may seem like a small change, but it can make them an ideal match for anyone who finds traditional braces uncomfortable and time-consuming to adjust. In fact, self-ligating braces are easier to adjust, which means shorter appointments.

However, they aren’t suited for everyone. Self-ligating braces may not work properly if you don’t care for them well, and the brackets suffer wear and tear, as the unique mechanisms can fall apart or come loose. They’re also generally more expensive than traditional braces because they’re more advanced and sometimes less painful. They’re a great option for people who want braces that are easy to wear and adjust but aren’t the best for people who want to save money on the procedure.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are another style of braces that functions very similarly to classic metal braces. However, they’re placed on the inside of the teeth. This means that when you smile, the lingual braces are hidden behind your natural teeth. They’re a covert option that combines the no-braces look of invisible retainers with the functionality of metal braces.

Unfortunately, lingual braces aren’t always easy to find, and some orthodontists do not install or adjust them. As a result, they also tend to be more expensive. Taking care of lingual braces is a bit harder, too, as their position behind the teeth can make them harder to clean. Appointments also tend to last longer for each of these reasons.

Invisible Aligners

Invisible aligners are popular and easy to use, especially for adults who want to improve their smiles but don’t want to be seen wearing classic braces. They’re made of a clear, durable plastic that is molded to fit your mouth, but that can be removed when it’s time to eat, brush, and floss. This makes them an easy way to align your teeth without worrying about restrictive or overly noticeable braces.

Invisible aligners also have some downsides that may make them less suited for some individuals. They are removable but must be worn for most of the day, which means that it’s up to the individual wearer to remember to wear the aligners on their own. They’re also one of the more expensive options and aren’t recommended for younger children. For certain oral health conditions, treatment may also take longer, which means that they may not be the first choice for people in a hurry to experience the finished result.

Suggested Reading: How Do I Know If I Need Braces?

Choosing Types of Braces

Picking the right variety of braces will depend on your unique alignment issue, your general oral health, and more.

Keep these questions in mind when determining why type of braces may fit your needs:

How much money can I spend? If you’re willing to pay a bit more for virtually invisible braces, lingual braces may be for you. If you simply want your teeth straightened and a lasting smile at a low cost, traditional metal braces may be a better fit.
How long am I willing to wear braces? Some of the braces work faster, while others need more time to move your teeth into position. Currently, lingual braces, self-ligating braces, and clear aligners are all relatively quick ways to achieve a good smile.
How long do I want adjustment appointments to take? Braces that require minimal adjustments, like self-ligating braces, are better for people with packed schedules and people who get stressed out visiting an orthodontist.
Does the appearance of the braces matter? Clear aligners and lingual braces are best if you prefer to keep your braces treatment discreet. Alternatively, if you just want something you can customize, traditional braces are the way to go.
Are there any reasons a certain type of braces won’t work? For example, it isn’t recommended for children to use clear aligners, so other options must be considered.

Ask your orthodontist the above questions and tell them as much as you can about your preferences and lifestyle to narrow down your list of braces types.

Braces Types FAQs

If you’re still unsure about which braces option may be best for you, consider these FAQs.

Which Types of Braces Are the Best?

There is no one answer to this question. Every variety of braces has upsides and downsides that depend on the individual wearing them and the orthodontic issues they are dealing with. While any type of braces may work just fine to fix your smile, discuss your options with your orthodontist to determine which type of braces matches your lifestyle and needs.

Which Braces Work the Fastest?

Self-ligating braces are often considered to be the fastest option, followed by more traditional options such as metallic and ceramic braces. This is because the unique mechanics of self-ligating braces make them easier to adjust. Other braces are quick because they work efficiently and reliably to adjust and straighten your teeth. Clear aligners are also considered a relatively quick braces treatment option. However, the actual time you’ll need to wear braces can vary depending on the severity of your oral health issue, maintenance, and whether your braces need frequent repairs.

What Type of Braces Hurt the Least?

Fortunately, with advances in orthodontic treatment, the most pain you should experience is some general discomfort right after an adjustment. Self-ligating braces tend to be less painful after adjustment than traditional braces due to their more advanced design.

Invisible aligners are also known to be comfortable because they fit your teeth instead of using metal wires to exert pressure and change the shape of your mouth. Of course, all braces will eventually become comfortable as they’re worn, but if you’re more sensitive to pain or discomfort, then self-ligating braces or invisible aligners may work better.

What Types of Braces Are Best for Overcrowding?

If your teeth are “overcrowded,” it means they’re growing too closely together because there is no room for your teeth to occupy their own spaces. If you or your child is experiencing overcrowding, classic metal braces are often the best option. The material is strong and durable enough to provide the pressure necessary to correct the problem.

Robison: Top Orthodontics in Arizona

If you are considering braces for yourself or your child, schedule a consultation with the friendly staff at Robison Orthodontics. We can help you assess which types of braces are available for treating your unique oral health issue and ensure you choose an affordable, low-maintenance, comfortable braces option. Schedule a consultation to learn more about your orthodontic options.

Dr. Tyler Robison

Dr. Tyler Robison is an alum of Mesa’s Mountain View High School. He graduated from Brigham Young University before being accepted to the “Top Ten-nationally ranked” University of Louisville in Kentucky, where he earned his Doctorate in Dental Medicine and a Master’s Degree in Oral Biology. He graduated with honors in the top ten percent of his class. Dr. Robison continued at the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, where he received a second master’s degree in dental science and his orthodontic certification.