Monthly Archives: July 2019

Types of Braces: Pros and Cons

The advancements in dentistry and orthodontics have paved way for new and better treatments. Today, you will find a wide variety of effective options for orthodontic treatment.  Most interestingly, some advanced treatments include the braces that people won’t be able to spot; we are talking about Invisalign clear aligners.

However, if you want to take an orthodontic treatment and looking for a better option, the pros and cons of each orthodontic appliance are one of the important factors you might need to consider. Fortunately, you don’t need to search for it, as we are sharing the benefits and downsides of each type of braces here.

1.    Invisalign

Unlike metal braces and ceramic braces, teeth aligners of Invisalign resemble a mouth guard. Invisalign is one of the most popular options in orthodontic treatments. Made with clear plastic, Invisalign is hard to spot. Keep in mind that the aligners in these braces are replaced after every two weeks.

Pros of Invisalign

  • With Invisalign, you will not be restricted to avoid food and drinks
  • They are visually invisible and thus hard to notice that you are wearing braces

Cons of Invisalign

  • Replacements of aligners are a bit costly
  • They are not suitable for complex dental problems
  • Invisalign are only available for teens and adults
  • They do not give results faster as traditional braces
  • Invisalign is one of the most expensive options

2.    Metal Braces

There is no doubt that metal braces are widely popular in orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it is highly likely that when you consider getting braces, they come to your mind at first. Metal brackets and metal wires fixed to your teeth; this is what people assume when they think of metal braces. However, today, you will find traditional braces that are less invasive, as they are usually smaller and include archwires that give effective results and alleviate pain.

Pros of Metal Braces

  • Metal braces are one of the most cost-effective orthodontic solutions
  • In traditional braces, you will be able to opt for multicolor wires or even the wires of the same color as your enamel.

Cons of Metal Braces

  • They are the most noticeable and obvious form of braces

3.    Lingual Braces

Well, these braces mimic the exact look of metal braces. The only difference is they tightly adhere on the inside of your bite. Not to mention, lingual braces are rarely used in orthodontic treatments.

Pros of Lingual Braces

  • They are visually invisible since they are fixed on the interior part of your teeth

Cons Lingual Braces

  • They are quite expensive
  • Lingual braces are hard to clean
  • They are not suitable for complex dental issues
  • Lingual braces usually cause great discomfort at the initial stage

4.    Ceramic Braces

Although ceramic braces have the same shape and size as of traditional braces, they incorporate brackets of the same color as your teeth. However, some ceramic braces contain transparent brackets; this is the reason they were once called ‘clear braces.’

Pros of Ceramic Braces

  • Ceramic braces give more effective results in a short time than plastic aligners
  • They are less obvious as compared to metal braces

Cons of Ceramic Braces

  • Their brackets may stain over time
  • Ceramic braces are more expensive than metal braces
  • They require great care to maintain hygiene and clear appearance

In Conclusion

Now that you have come across all the pros and cons of each type of braces, it will be much easier for you to make the right decision. For the best orthodontic treatment, consult Manhattan Family Orthodontics.

(646) 760-8028

Orthodontists: Straightening Your Crooked Teeth

orthodontist-straighten-crooked-teeth-01A recent research revealed that people with straight teeth are smarter and more successful than those having misaligned or crooked teeth. Furthermore, a survey found that most people notice ‘teeth alignment’ about a person’s smile, which indicates why it may be difficult to smile with confidence when someone has crooked teeth.

Fortunately, investing in orthodontic treatment can make your smile more attractive and pay off big by developing self-confidence in people with crooked teeth. However, before delving into the details of how n orthodontic specialist correct crooked teeth, it’s better to understand what cause crooked teeth.

Causes of Crooked Teeth

causes-of-crooked-teeth-02Scientifically referred to as malocclusion, crooked teeth not only make your smile unattractive but also cause several oral health issues. Crooked teeth usually become evident around age 7; it is better to identify malocclusion and go for the treatment early to prevent severe dental issues that may arise later.

This usually happens when a child’s jaw doesn’t have enough space for the newly erupting tooth. As a result, the emerging teeth will push baby teeth and throw off the bite. Besides this, thumb sucking can also cause crooked teeth.

A thumb exerts pressure on the teeth and jaws lead to malocclusion referred to as ‘open bite.’ It is where the upper and lower teeth do not meet when you close your mouth. Premature loss of baby teeth due to injury or decay can also cause crooked teeth.

Not to mention, orthodontic treatment can make a great difference to your smile. However, it may take years, depends on your condition. Now that you know the common causes of crowded teeth, the next you need to know is how orthodontists fix crooked teeth.

Treatment of Crooked Teeth

best-treatment-crooked-teeth-03As mentioned earlier, crooked teeth can be straightened with orthodontic treatment. It is important to mention here that orthodontists are the dental specialists who deal with the specific problems associated with your jaw movement, teeth alignments, and craniofacial development.

These medical professionals use appliances, such as braces, which apply gentle pressure to your teeth for better alignment. If the problem is identified at an early age, an orthodontic specialist will use other appliances like a palatal expander, which creates more space for the emerging teeth.

When it comes to adults, there are several types of appliances designed and used for them. You probably have heard about Invisalign clean aligners; these braces provide the patients with crooked teeth with a more discreet form of orthodontic treatment.

The treatment time for crooked teeth can vary but generally completed within 6-months to 3-years. However, once you have received the initial treatment, you will have to wear retainers later. This appliance helps hold your teeth in new positions and prevent them from maneuvering into their old position. Therefore, if you don’t want your effort and money to go wasted, it’s crucial to wear retainers after receiving your treatment.

Today, there are different yet effective options available for orthodontic treatment, including lingual braces, clear braces, conventional braces, removable aligners, clear aligners, and more. However, invisible braces are one of the most common options for orthodontic treatment.

The Bottom Line

Keep in mind that correcting the alignment of your teeth not only improves the bite but also optimizes your teeth functioning.  Furthermore, it allows easier flossing and brushing, enabling you to keep your teeth healthy. If you want to get the best results from your orthodontic treatment, consult Manhattan Family Orthodontics to correct your crooked teeth.