Traditional Braces
Traditional braces have progressed since the early days and are now lighter in weight and structure than they used to be. They are made from a high-grade stainless steel and have metal brackets that are attached to each tooth using a type of cement. The brackets are linked to each other with a thin archwire, which puts pressure on the teeth to cause them to move slowly into the correct position.
The archwires are connected to the brackets using tiny elastics known as ligatures or o-rings, which your orthodontist will change each time he tightens the braces. Some types of braces have brackets that don’t need o-rings, and these are called self-ligating braces.
Ceramic Braces
These work in the same way as traditional braces, but the brackets are made from a clear, transparent ceramic material. The braces are less visible to others, which makes them a popular choice for adults who need orthodontic treatment. Patients wearing these types of braces occasionally find that the elastics become discolored, which can cause marks on the teeth, as described by the orthodontics practice of Dr.Ehsan Sanei. Your orthodontist might recommend the use of a product such as Colgate®Phos-Flur® Anti-Cavity Fluoride Rinse, which will help to provide fluoride to your teeth to protect them against cavities.
Damon Braces
This type of braces is currently enjoying a wave of popularity with orthodontists because it provides gentler treatment and requires fewer dental visits. Damon braces are self-ligating and use a slide mechanism instead of elastics to connect the archwires.
These braces produce faster results because the teeth can move on their own without needing to be adjusted. This causes less friction and pressure on the teeth, so movement is less painful. The braces are also easier to keep clean. Having to make fewer trips to your dental professional means that the process costs less time and money, too.
Clear and Removable Aligners
Invisalign is a type of clear aligner that you can use instead of metal or Damon braces. This involves a range of clear plastic aligners that resemble mouth guards, which are custom-made for you. They are removable for eating and cleaning, and you change them out for a newly made aligner every two weeks. Each new aligner takes the adjustment of your teeth one step further.
Clear aligners are also recommended for ongoing use after you complete your orthodontic treatment. These appliances help to maintain the results you want until your teeth have settled down and finished moving.
Colour choices
Dentists understand that having different colour braces for teeth can make patients feel more confident with their smiles. You can often view the available colours on a braces colour wheel at your clinic. Some possible options include:
- White and clear (for a more subtle look)
- Grey and silver (to match the metal brackets)
- Bright neon colours
- Darker metallic shades
- Glow-in-the-dark elastics
However, keep in mind that different brands of braces will come with different colour options. You’ll need to ask your dentist about the exact range of colours you can choose from. Ask to view their braces colour wheel at your first appointment so you’ll have time to pick colours you’re happy with. The last thing you want is to rush your decision and later regret your choice.
If you’re struggling to narrow down your choice to just one or two colours then what about rainbow braces? It can be fun to show off bright colours at school, but neon elastics might look out of place in an office job.
Here are some other braces colour ideas you might like:
- Complement your eye colour
- Match the clothing colours you like to wear
- Choose bright colours in summer and cool blues in winter
- Red and green for Christmas
- Black and orange for Halloween
