Orthodontic technologies have greatly improved the effectiveness, comfort, and aesthetic appeal of wearing braces for today's patients. Many people who were once concerned about having to wear large metal brackets and thick bands on their teeth for years are now enjoying healthy new smiles thanks to shorter, more discreet orthodontic care.

New Choices for Traditional Braces

With traditional braces, brackets are glued to each tooth and held together by a metal loop that goes around the entire row of teeth. Modern advances have eliminated the thick steel bands and heavy brackets of the past. Today, stronger glues mean smaller, more tightly bonded brackets. Thick bands have been replaced by thin wires that are not only are harder to see, but also more effective at adjusting teeth.

These smaller, stronger components translate into fewer adjustment appointments, and ultimately a shorter treatment length. On top of that, they also improve oral health. Thick brackets and bands were difficult to clean around, and many patients suffered from tooth discoloration as a result. Over time, the exposed enamel around each bracket darkened from inadequate brushing, while the color underneath each bracket was protected; when the brackets were removed, lighter spots could be seen in the centers of many teeth. Thankfully, today's braces rarely cause such a problem, provided patients brush regularly.

Consumer demand has also led to many cosmetic choices being made available to orthodontic patients. While stainless steel brackets are still most common, they can also be fashioned from ceramics or plastics, making them blend in more with the teeth. (Plastic brackets are discouraged for longer treatment schedules, as they tend to discolor over time.) Brackets, wires, and elastics are all available in a rainbow of colors. Clear components are also available, which make braces even harder to detect.

Invisible Braces

The latest news in orthodontics that has many people excited is the development of "invisible" braces. Instead of using brackets and wires, the orthodontist instead develops snugly-fitting molds of the top and bottom rows of teeth. While in place, these molds apply firm but gentle pressure to misaligned teeth, encouraging them to move and straighten over time.

Computer technology helps the orthodontist to map out a progressive plan to properly align the teeth, broken down into multiple steps. At each step, the current mold is replaced with a new one that provides slightly more pressure than the last. Over time, the series successfully leads to straightened rows of teeth, without any need to undergo invasive braces installation and removal.

Generally, each mold is worn for two weeks. They must be worn all day and all night, but can be removed for eating and cleaning. This prevents the tooth discoloration that often accompanies traditional braces. Most patients experience slight discomfort on the first day of a new mold, but this disappears quickly as their teeth adjust to their new positions.

Invisible braces cost more than traditional braces, but for some, they are well-worth the extra investment. Not only are they easily hidden (unless someone is standing right in front of you), but they can also be removed on rare occasions, such as wedding photos, where someone would otherwise be uncomfortable being seen in braces.

Invisible braces cannot be used to treat every case. Even if they can be tried, traditional braces still may provide a higher degree of success. Only an orthodontist can tell for certain whether or not someone makes a good candidate for invisible braces.

Casey Morgan is a freelance writer and is also a regular contributing writer to SmileForLess - a website dedicated to providing information about dental care and information about dental and plans. http://www.smileforless.com

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Learn about new options for braces that is making today's patients smile.