What Types Of Braces Are Available?

For many years, the only types of braces that were available for realigning a person’s teeth was the cumbersome, all-metal variety. However, over time, the advancements in the dental industry has led to the onset of several different varieties. Indeed, braces have evolved into a wide range of materials and styles to choose from. Today, many adults are straightening their teeth with braces just as children and teenagers do.

Although the more severe cases will require wearing braces for a longer period of time, the average person will wear their braces between one and two years. In addition to straightening one’s teeth, braces can be extremely effective for correcting an overbite or under-bite as well as aligning the lower and upper jaw. When current and new patients contact us at Community Dental Group, they usually have a number of questions regarding braces.

One of the most commonly asked questions is “what types of braces are available?” There are several types available today. However, you should contact us to find out which types we provide here at Community Dental Group. The following is a list of several materials that are currently available in the dental industry today:

• Ceramic – these are similar to the metal variety with the exception of the brackets which are made from a ceramic material. Unlike the all-metal variety, they do not leave any stains behind once they are removed. However, these braces must be worn longer and are more expensive than those made from stainless steel.
• Gold – braces made from gold or gold alloy were developed for those individuals who prefer that look or are allergic to the stainless steel varieties. Although they work as well as the stainless steel version, they are significantly higher in price.
• Lingual braces – although this is one of the more modern innovations in orthodontics, it is by far the most costly. Lingual braces were designed to be worn behind your teeth rather than on the front of them. These can be extremely uncomfortable and there is a greater likelihood that your tongue will be cut while wearing them.
• Stainless steel – this is the older, more traditional style of braces that became widely accepted during the 1950’s, although the use of braces was first documented in ancient times. These are the most cost-effective version available today, hence their popularity.

If you would like more information regarding the different types of braces that we offer at Community Dental Group, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.