Why Braces are Still the Most Popular Way to Straighten your Teeth
Do you want to straighten your teeth and feel more confident about your smile?
A variety of orthodontic options exist today for people looking into getting braces. From traditional metal braces to clear Invisalign aligners, it can be a challenge to decide which choice is the best for your particular needs.
An experienced orthodontist will be able to assess your individual needs and work with you to explain the benefits of each type. Let’s take a look at traditional braces – the best known practice in orthodontics, and still the most popular option to correct misaligned teeth in children, teenagers and adults around Australia.
How the Treatment Works
Braces are a combination of brackets and wires attached to the front of your teeth. The brackets grip onto your teeth while the wires are loosened or tightened to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.
Traditionally metal, some orthodontists also offer tooth-coloured brackets, making them far less visible than the conventional metal type.
The length of your treatment will depend on how far your teeth need to be moved. Some cases will take only a few months; others, a few years. We take into account such factors as the patient’s age and health, as older patients will require longer treatments due to their denser jawbones.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are more effective at treating extreme overcrowding than other options like clear braces or Invisalign aligners and are less expensive. They give your orthodontist the control he needs to move the teeth in small increments at a time.
The main disadvantage of traditional braces is metal mouth appearance. While less noticeable orthodontics like Invisalign may seem like a better choice for those who are conscious of their appearance, today’s braces are more visually appealing than in past years, with a range of colour options for both the brackets and the elastics. Wearing these types of braces also means that you don’t have to worry about ever misplacing your aligners.
Who Are Braces Suitable for?
Both children and adults can benefit from getting their teeth properly aligned. It’s recommended that children start their treatment once they’ve gotten all their permanent teeth (usually around age 7 or 8).
Adult orthodontics is growing in popularity, and with an increasing range of options to fit in with your lifestyle, getting straight teeth can be easier than before. Adults can get their braces at any age, and while their treatment may take longer, they’re guaranteed to enjoy the final results just the same.
Your best plan is to book in with an experienced and professional orthodontist for an individual consultation, to see what option is best for you.
At Tony Weir Orthodontics we are specialists in a range of orthodontic treatments including traditional braces, lingual braces and invisible braces. If you’re interested in finding out more about braces, call us on (07) 3054 6763 or contact us online.