Dental braces are devices for correcting problems in your teeth that usually involve crowding, crookedness, and misalignment. More often than not, teens and young kids wear them because childhood is the most ideal time to fix tooth positioning. However, being old doesn’t mean that it’s too late to have your teeth repaired.
It is possible for adults to get braces because the procedure only requires a person to have permanent teeth and a healthy jawbone. Although adults may need to wear their braces longer than kids, it still produces the same result. An adult usually wears braces for around two to three years, but it may still vary depending on the problem and the kind of braces you are wearing. Some of these types are as follows.
Types of Braces
In the earlier years, braces were made of ivory, copper, zinc, and gold. They were applied using wires and headgear to hold them in place. Eventually, braces became more user-friendly, so it was possible for people to ditch the bulky wires to get their teeth straightened. Now, there are even more convenient options that cater to different patient needs. Here are some of them:
Traditional Braces
This orthodontic device is made of metal and flexible wires. It’s applied using dental adhesives to attach a bracket to your teeth for a wire to pass through. After that, bands are used to hold the wires in place to create pressure to straighten the teeth. Sometimes, your dentist may attach brackets with hooks for elastic bands that add more pressure to correct the structure of your bite.
Aligners
Aligners, often known as invisible braces, are clear plastic trays that fit your teeth. They can be removed when you eat or brush your teeth, but they should be worn for at least 22 hours a day for them to work. Similarly, they use pressure to correct and straighten the alignment of your teeth.
Ceramic Braces
On the other hand, ceramic braces work just like traditional braces but are less noticeable. They use clear or tooth-colored brackets instead of the commonly used silver or gray. The difference is that they work slower than metal braces but faster than clear aligners.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces, meanwhile, are similar to metal braces, except they’re attached to the back of your teeth, which makes them nearly invisible. They work just the same, but they may cost higher because they’re customized to each patient.
Talk to Your Dentist
It’s never too late to have your teeth corrected. To know the best option for braces for adults, consult your local dentist. Contact Aegis Dental Group or Angola Dental Center to speak with one of our orthodontists. Our dental offices are located in Warsaw, Angola, and Goshen.