Get a Glamurous Smile

If you have misaligned teeth, there are multiple orthodontic options that your dentist may prescribe to straighten them. Here are a few:

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets, an archwire and elastic ligatures that connect the brackets to the archwire. The archwire is periodically adjusted by your orthodontist to ensure that your dental alignment progresses in a timely manner.

Clear Braces

Clear braces are a good option for people that would like to have their teeth aligned by traditional braces but prefer braces that are less noticeable. The brackets of clear braces are made of ceramic. Since the ceramic is white like tooth enamel, it is more difficult to discern on the teeth. These braces also use an archwire and elastic bands to align the teeth.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are made of metal. However, they are also a less noticeable alignment option. The brackets of lingual braces are applied to the side of the teeth that is adjacent to the tongue. Thus, when you speak, smile or eat, the brackets remain hidden. Still, these braces straighten the teeth using the same mechanisms as traditional braces.

Damon System Braces

The straightening process for Damon braces, however, is slightly different. Damon braces have brackets that are self-litigating. Instead of requiring elastic bands to hold the archwire against the brackets, their brackets contain tiny holes through which the archwire is fed.

The design of Damon brackets cause the teeth to move into place more quickly and less painfully than they do with traditional braces. The bands of conventional braces create friction that must be overcome before the force from the braces can align the teeth. Without this additional friction, Damon braces can align the teeth using less force. They also require fewer trips to your orthodontist for adjustments.

Invisalign

Invisalign, unlike the other orthodontic options listed, does not use bracket or archwires. Instead, the system uses clear aligning trays that are made of plastic. The trays are switched out every two weeks or so to progress your alignment. In addition, since the trays are removable, you can eat and brush your teeth in your normal manner throughout your alignment process. 

There are multiple options available for people who would like to have their teeth straightened. Visit an orthodontist, like Simmons Craig A D D S, for a full assessment. He or she can help you determine the alignment option that best suits your needs.