New patients at Freeman Orthodontics are often relieved when they realize that today’s braces are quite different than those of the past. Quite literally, these aren’t your mama’s braces. And if you are that mama, you can rest at ease that your child will have a far more comfortable orthodontic experience than you did!
Advances in technology have given patients variety and comfort in their orthodontic treatment. Whether you are seeking adult braces or children’s braces, there is an option to fit your lifestyle. While braces have made huge advances in comfort and style, the mechanics of straightening teeth still work much in the same way.
So How Do Braces Work?
Traditional braces work to straighten teeth through a system of brackets, elastic bands, and archwire. Brackets are adhered to each individual tooth and then connected by an archwire that runs the span of the teeth. Elastic bands then connect the archwire to the brackets. Teeth are straightened through tightening of the archwire that gradually moves teeth into the desired position.
Through regular check-ups, your orthodontist will monitor your progress and adjust your wires as needed. Whether a patient uses metal braces, ceramic braces, or gold braces, they all will function in this basic way. Clear aligners however such as Invisalign work a little differently.
What are Invisalign Clear Aligners?
Adult Invisalign or Invisalign Teen is a treatment that straightens teeth through sets of clear aligners. Your orthodontist will create a scan of your teeth that will be used to create your custom aligners. Once your aligners are checked for proper fit, you will begin wearing them 22 hours a day. The aligners will provide gentle pressure to move your teeth into the desired position gradually. Every few weeks, you will get a new set of aligners as your teeth continue to move.
Clear Aligners Vs.Traditional Braces
With so many options, how does one ever choose which type of braces they want? While there are advantages to both, it really comes down to what matters most for your orthodontic experience. Comfort, style, budget, convenience, and maintenance are all things to consider.
Traditional braces are the tried and true method for straightening teeth. They have consistent results and can treat a variety of orthodontic cases. Today’s small, lower profile brackets make rubbing and abrasions less problematic. Traditional metal braces are also the most cost-effective orthodontic treatment option.
Clear ceramic braces offer all of the benefits of metal braces with the discrete look of clear brackets. When paired with similarly translucent archwire and elastics, clear braces are much less noticeable than their metal counterparts.
If discretion is your top priority, Invisalign clear aligners could be right for you. The clear aligners are nearly invisible and therefore very unobtrusive to your look. They must be worn 22 hours a day but can be removed for eating and drinking. Some patients prefer Invisalign for the fact they don’t have to worry about diet changes. Because they are removed for eating, you can have all the taffy, nuts, and caramel popcorn your heart desires! Well, maybe not THAT much. We are still dentists you know!
At Freeman Orthodontics we are proud to offer braces and Invisalign to the San Jose, Milpitas, Morgan Hill, Evergreen, and Santa Clara communities. We would love to be your orthodontist and help you decide which treatment option is best for you. For more information or to set up your free consultation, visit our website here.
