Orthodontic treatment encompasses many different types of braces treatment – but what are they? We break down the different types of braces available out there and what they can offer you…
Traditional braces – These are often referred to as ‘train tracks’. Modern brackets and archwires are much smaller and less invasive than those of the past. You can also choose to have heat-activated archwires which target your body heat and help your teeth move less painfully.
Pros – A cheaper orthodontic treatment option. The choice of coloured bands is a good incentive for children who are nervous about braces.
Invisalign – Invisalign offer a lot of freedom for the duration of your treatment as they are a removable type of treatment. They are a set of removable, clear alingers that are replaced every two weeks and a favourite amongst celebrities, going almost totally unnoticed by others.
Pros – Invisalign is a non-invasive treatment that does not inhibit patients’ day-today life. Convenience is a priority in their design.
Ceramic – These are of a similar design to traditional braces with the exception of having clear or tooth-colored brackets, intended to blend with the colour of real teeth.
Pros – These are designed to blend with your teeth, therefore they are more discreet than traditional braces.
White Braces/ICE braces – Like ceramic braces, white braces are translucent with the intention of blending with your teeth. They’re also compact and have less sharp edges than traditional braces.
Pros – White braces have a natural-looking appearance – smooth and sculpted. They’re also not susceptible to discolouration.
Incognito – These are custom made braces that fit on the inside surface of your mouth so that they are minimally visible. Incognito encompasses comfortable brackets – comfort is a real advantage with these type of braces.
Pros – Lingual braces are meticulously customised for each of your individual teeth.
Removable – These are a popular for the early stages of treatment amongst younger patients. The nature of removable braces allows you to thoroughly clean them and easier to maintain than fixed braces.
Pros – Removable braces are a less invasive treatment than fixed braces and you can continue to eat the foods you enjoy as you have the option of removing your retainer/aligner.
Fixed – The term ‘fixed’ defines braces like train tracks, mentioned above. Fixed solutions complete treatment within a period of around 12-24 months.
Pros – Once they are on, you don’t don’t have the responsibility of remembering to put your braces back on/you won’t jeopardise your treatment by forgetting to stick to a routine.
