Clear Braces Vs. Metal Braces
If you have crooked or misaligned teeth affecting your personality and smile, there are various orthodontic treatment options available to fix the issue. Today, metal braces are not the only option available to fix crooked teeth. Thanks to modern dentistry, you can also have your teeth straightened with clear braces. “But, what is the difference between metal and clear braces, and which option best suits my need” you may ask. If you are stuck between choosing metal or clear braces for your treatment, this article is for you.
Clear Vs. Metal Braces: What’s the Difference?
Both clear and metal braces are fixed appliances bonded to the teeth. However, the primary difference between metal and clear braces is that the clear braces are either made from tooth-colored or transparent material, making them virtually invisible. In addition, unlike metal braces that have metallic wires, clear braces have orthodontic wires coated with a tooth-colored material. Hence, clear braces are designed to be inconspicuous. You can even choose transparent or colored elastic bands to go with your clear braces.
Pros and Cons
Compared with metal braces, clear braces offer the following pros and cons:
- Clear Braces Pros
Perhaps, the most significant advantage of clear braces is their inconspicuousness. In addition, clear braces do not affect one’s smile and facial esthetics as they are barely visible when worn. Another advantage of the clear braces is they offer superior comfort and convenience to conventional metal braces.
- Clear Braces Cons
Unlike metal braces, clear braces are suitable for treating complex or complicated orthodontic problems. Besides, clear braces made from tooth-colored ceramics are not ideal for patients who have a habit of grinding their teeth, as they can damage the opposing natural teeth. Another drawback of the clear braces is their higher cost than metal braces.
Which is Better?
Both metal and clear braces have their own merits and demerits. If esthetics are your primary concern, clear braces are a good option. On the other hand, if you are looking for a time-tested and reliable option, you should consider metal braces. Your dentist is the person to recommend which option is best for you after a thorough clinical exam and preparation of a detailed treatment plan.
How Long Do You Wear A Retainer After Braces?
So you have just completed your treatment with braces or Invisalign aligners, and you’re already excited about your brand new smile. So, what’s next? Now your dentist will give you retainers to consolidate your treatment. Now, you may ask, “ what are retainers and how long do I need to wear them?” this blog answers all your questions! So continue reading to learn everything you need to know about orthodontic retainers.
What are Retainers?
Retainers are removable or fixed appliances your dentist will give you once you have finished wearing braces or clear aligners. The purpose of orthodontic retainers is to complete your treatment and prevent your teeth from moving back to their previous positions.
How Do Retainers Work?
Retainers are passive appliances; this means that unlike braces and clear aligners (the so-called active appliances) that exert pressure on the teeth and move them in the desired direction, retainers do not generate any force or cause tooth movement. Instead, they are simply placed over the teeth to prevent unwanted movement.
What are Different Types of Retainers?
There are two main types of orthodontic retainers; removable and fixed. Removable retainers are shaped and designed just like clear aligners. However, they fit much less snuggly over the teeth and do not exert any pressure. On the other hand, fixed retainers are bonded to the inner sides of the teeth using metallic wire. These retainers can only be removed by your dentist.
How Long To Wear Retainers?
The amount of time one needs to wear their aligners depends mainly on the severity of their initial orthodontic problem. The more severer an issue is, the longer one needs to wear their aligners. For optimal results, one should wear their aligners overnight for at least one year or according to their dentist’s instructions. Afterward, they may wear their aligners on alternate nights. Orthodontic patients may need to wear their retainers throughout life to prevent their teeth from moving backward.
If you are looking for high-quality orthodontic treatment services in our clinic, should be your first choice. We take pride in having the most skilled and experienced orthodontic specialists in town. So, book an appointment with us today and take your first step towards enjoying a healthy and beautiful smile.
Orthodontist Vs Dentist What Is The Difference?
If you’re thinking of getting your misaligned teeth fixed, you might be wondering whether you should visit a dentist or an orthodontist for this purpose. And more importantly, what is the difference between these two, or what is an orthodontist? If you have been looking for answers to these questions, this blog is for you. So, continue reading to find out more.
What's The Difference Between A Dentist And An Orthodontist
Both dentists and orthodontists are dental professionals. However, the main difference among them is that dentists are trained to treat all dental issues, while orthodontists are specialist dentists who focus on treating problems related to the alignment of the teeth and jaws. In other words, a dentist is considered as the jack of all trades while an orthodontist is a master of only dental specialty.
Are Dentists And Orthodontists The Same Thing?
In short, no - dentists and orthodontists are not the same. That is why it is essential that you understand the orthodontist and dentists difference clearly. The primary difference between a dentist and an orthodontist is their level of training. While a general dentist can practice dentistry after undergoing clinical training at a dental school for five or six years, orthodontists have to undergo additional training to become specialists. They have undertaken additional three or four years of clinical training, in which they learn everything about the prevention, diagnosis, and management of problems causing tooth misalignment.
Who Should I Visit for Teeth Straightening - A Dentist or an Orthodontist?
It all depends on your treatment needs. For example, if you have a general problem related to your teeth, such as a tooth cavity or teeth stains, you should visit a dentist. On the other hand, if you would like to get your teeth straightened, or get related to the alignment of your jaws fixed, visiting an orthodontist would be a better option.
If you are looking for a world-class orthodontic practice in our clinics should be your first choice. We offer all orthodontic treatments by specialist orthodontists under one roof. So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment today and begin your journey towards a beautiful and lasting smile.
Metal Braces
If your dentist has told you that you need braces, you might be wondering whether they are the right option for tooth straightening. If you are looking for a time-tested and time-tested option for straightening your teeth, dental braces are one of the best options.
What are Metal Braces?
Metal braces are appliances attached to the teeth. Braces, also called brackets, are made from stainless steel and are bonded to the front surface of the teeth using adhesive. Each bracket contains a slot through which the orthodontic wire passes and connects all the teeth with elastic ties. You can customize the color of your braces by using the elastic band color of your choice at each appointment.
How Do Metal Braces work?
The tension in the orthodontic wire pushes the teeth in the desired direction and angulation. At each appointment, your dentist will adjust the tension in the orthodontic wire so that it continues to move your teeth and bring you one step closer to your dream smile. Once the treatment has been completed, your dentist will give you a fixed or removable retainer that consolidates the treatment and prevents your teeth from moving back to their old position.
Metal Braces Advantages
Metal braces offer various advantages over other orthodontic treatment options. The foremost benefit of metal braces is that they can be used to treat even the most complicated and complex orthodontic issues. Another advantage of metal braces is that they are cost-effective, and this treatment option is covered by most dental insurance companies in the US. Even if you don’t have insurance, we offer flexible payment options to customize your payment plan.
How long do metal braces take?
The amount of time required by braces to fix tooth misalignment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the problem, age of the patient, the dentist or orthodontist’s skill, and, more importantly, patient compliance. Mild to moderate orthodontic issues can be typically treated within 6-8 months, while more complicated cases may take anywhere between 18-24 months for treatment.
Metal braces lifestyle
You may have to make slight lifestyle adjustments after getting braces, such as some dietary restrictions and enhanced requirements for oral hygiene maintenance. However, braces will not affect your daily life schedule. You may also experience some pain and discomfort after getting braces for the initial few days. However, it will go away within a few days as your mouth adjusts to the braces.
If you would like to know more about braces, or whether they are a suitable option for you, please don’t hesitate to call us for an appointment, or visit us at Embrace Orthodontics.
