Don’t Want Traditional Braces? Learn About Clear Alternatives
If you have been told you need to get braces, you may be picturing the kind made out of traditional metal as your only option. Thankfully, there have been improvements with clear braces that have made them popular among adults and teens. Clear braces can provide the necessary help you need to straighten crooked teeth without the social stigma that metal braces can cause. Here is what you need to know about your options for clear braces.
Plastic Aligners
How Do They Function?
Plastic aligners use gentle force to gradually fix your crooked teeth. It involves taking a mold of your teeth, and the orthodontist will create several trays that are swapped out every 2 weeks. Each tray moves your teeth over a little bit more, eventually
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They allow you to eat anything that you want during the treatment, as opposed to traditional braces that have some limitations due to the metal brackets and wires. Oral hygiene will also be much easier, reducing the chance of cavities.
Unfortunately, plastic aligners may not be the best option for those that need major corrections done. The technology behind plastic aligners is always getting better though, and if you could not get them in the past you may be able to now.
Self-Ligating Braces
How Do They Function?
Self-ligating braces do not have the traditional metal brackets that hold each wire to the teeth, but a different system with a clip that is clear. It works much like a sliding door, and does not put as much pressure on the teeth.
Pros and Cons
This different style of braces lets the wire move freely, and does not require frequent adjustments that traditional metal braces do. You’ll be spending less time going to adjustment appointments, and will not miss as much work or school because of them. On the downside, they will cost more than traditional options.
Cost