What Are Popular Adult Orthodontics Treatments?
Having an orthodontic treatment as a child is common. Yet, you may not have had braces as a child for several reasons. Or maybe you had braces, but your teeth have become crooked once again. Sometimes this can happen as you grow older. Whether you had them or not, braces are becoming a popular option for adults. Discover the types of popular orthodontic treatments available for people of any age.
The different orthodontic options available
Braces put gentle yet steady pressure on a person’s teeth. This can ease crowding and move the teeth into proper position. There are three components that make up braces. These are the brackets for each tooth, a band or bonding that fixes the bracket in place and an arch wire that connects each of the brackets. Popular options for braces include:
Metal braces
Stainless steel braces are still one of the most popular choices for patients with complex dental issues. Dentists can size down metal braces, so they fit into the smaller areas of the mouth where teeth are more crooked.
Tooth-colored or clear braces
Tooth-colored or clear braces are also referred to as ceramic braces. These types of braces are still visible, yet some people consider them less intimidating than using traditional metal braces. One drawback of clear or tooth-colored braces is that they are more susceptible to stains.
Lingual braces
The orthodontist places these types of braces on the inner, tongue-side of the teeth. Lingual braces are a popular option for adults who do not want to wear visible metal braces yet still have complex issues that need to be addressed.
Invisalign® and clear aligners
These appliances will align the teeth without using wires or brackets. Because of their clearness, more people are opting for this type. Invisalign or clear aligners are not that noticeable, and sometimes patients feel more comfortable because of this.
Another reason Invisalign and clear aligners are growing in popularity is because patients can remove them when eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. It is important to note that dentists recommend patients wear them for 20-22 hours every day. If patients neglect to keep them in, the treatment time will lengthen.
Six Month Smiles
For patients who are interested in correcting cosmetic issues only, Six Month Smiles is a braces option that is becoming increasingly popular. These braces focus solely on the teeth that are showing when a patient is smiling. Dentists do not recommend them for complex bite or alignment issues. An upside to these braces is the treatment time usually only takes around six months to complete.
It is not too late for a new smile
Whether you have had braces in the past or this is your first orthodontic treatment, it is never too late to address the problems you have with your smile. Having a straight smile is good for many reasons. It can address any aesthetic concerns you might have, providing you with a smile you can be proud of. It can also address oral health concerns as straighter smiles are healthier smiles.
If you are interested in correcting the alignment of your teeth, contact a dentist for a consultation. A dentist or orthodontist can recommend the right option for correcting your smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.preferreddentalcenter.com or call Preferred Dental Center at (210) 822-8500 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
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