3 Common Types of Braces

braces Laguna Hills, CA

Braces are a common treatment that general dentists offer to patients who have crooked teeth or uneven bites. Modern dentistry has allowed for the evolution of multiple kinds of braces, which allows patients to consider the advantages of each one. Ready to learn more?

Three different types of braces

Each type of braces works similarly, in the sense that the goal is to straighten crooked teeth or adjust an uneven bite. Braces, no matter the kind, involve the use of brackets and wires. Every few weeks, the patient will visit their general dentist to undergo an adjustment. The adjustment tightens the wires and ensures that the braces are working, as the teeth shift into their new position. 

Outlined below are three of the most common types of braces. Keep reading to find out more!

Traditional metal braces

Metal braces are the most common type of teeth straightening treatment available today. They are also the longest known method of treatment among general dentists. Braces that are made of metal consist of brackets and wires.

An individual metal bracket is cemented onto the front of each tooth, and metal wires run through each bracket connecting them all together. Small bands are placed to help secure the brackets. When general dentists are administering traditional braces to children, they often have the opportunity to choose a color for their bands. 

Ceramic or clear braces

Ceramic braces have become a popular choice. They are also referred to as clear braces because the wires are clear in color and the brackets are tooth-colored. This type of braces works the same way that traditional metal ones do, except, they are made of different materials. 

General dentists often administer clear braces to patients looking for a more discreet option. Because the wires are clear and the brackets are tooth-colored, they are less noticeable, which can be seen as advantageous to an adult patient who does not want attention drawn to their mouth.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are another common type of teeth straightening treatment that general dentists administer. Lingual braces are similar to metal ones, in the sense that they are made of metal. However, unlike traditional braces, lingual ones are cemented onto the underside of the teeth, instead of the front.

One advantage of these braces is that they are not easily noticeable. Patients consider this type when they are seeking a more discreet treatment route. One thing to note about lingual braces is that they can be irritating to the mouth, specifically, the tongue. Because they are on the underside of the teeth, the tongue is more likely to run into the brackets and wires.

Reach out today!

Braces are a great option to straighten crooked teeth and correct uneven bites. With the help of a general dentist, braces of any kind can be considered and explored. Reach out today with any questions or concerns. Our team is here to help.

Request an appointment here: https://www.orangecoastortho.com or call Orange Coast Orthodontics at (949) 860-1231 for an appointment in our Laguna Hills office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Advice On Clear Braces For Kids

A dentist might recommend clear braces for kids if your child has developed orthodontic issues. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing in your child for their first appointment with an orthodontist by the time they are 7 years old.At this point, their smile should be developed, even if they still have some of their…

Invisalign For Teens: Say Goodbye To Metal Braces

Invisalign® for teens improves the alignment of your child’s teeth without them having a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. Metal braces have been the standard way to fix teeth alignment problems and have been used since the 1800s.While braces remain one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth, these devices are highly visible…

How An Orthodontist Corrects Jaw Position

An orthodontist strikes a balance between the least intrusive and the most effective treatments. For jaw misalignment, treatment almost always requires a combination of different measures. Here is what you need to know about how an orthodontist corrects this particular orthodontic problem.The nature and severity of orthodontic problems vary from person to person. Some people…

When An Orthodontist Would Recommend Wearing A Night Guard

An orthodontist might recommend wearing a night guard if you have bruxism. The device prevents you from grinding your teeth while you sleep. Also known as an occlusal guard, a night guard is a custom-made removable device that fits between the lower and upper sets of teeth. The appliance provides a cushion that prevents you…

Recent Posts

Advice On Clear Braces For Kids

Advice On Clear Braces For Kids

A dentist might recommend clear braces for kids if your child has developed orthodontic issues. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing in your child for their first appointment with an orthodontist by the time they are 7 years old.At this point, their smile should be developed, even if they still have some of their…

Invisalign For Teens: Say Goodbye To Metal Braces

Invisalign For Teens: Say Goodbye To Metal Braces

Invisalign® for teens improves the alignment of your child’s teeth without them having a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. Metal braces have been the standard way to fix teeth alignment problems and have been used since the 1800s.While braces remain one of the most effective ways to straighten teeth, these devices are highly visible…

We’re open and offering in-person and online consultations!