Traditional braces have made significant progress in aligning crooked teeth. They are beneficial for addressing a range of dental issues beyond just crooked teeth. Traditional braces can successfully close gaps in cases of crowded or overlapping teeth. They also correct misaligned or protruding teeth. In addition, traditional braces align a bad bite and ensure dental midlines match up, effectively addressing jaw problems.
For those experiencing these challenges, traditional braces can enhance your ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral hygiene while also giving you a more aligned smile. If you’re unsure about wearing traditional braces to achieve straighter teeth, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised by how much you could come to enjoy them!
How Have Traditional Braces Evolved?
Like all things influenced by progress, modern traditional braces have transformed due to advancements in dental technology. Instead of metal bands encircling every tooth, today they’re placed discreetly on select teeth and secured with a tube on a supporting band at the back.
Today’s braces are not only slimmer, smaller, and less noticeable, but also more comfortable and affordable. The duration of wearing these braces varies depending on your specific requirements, typically ranging from one to three years. Afterward, a retainer is worn to maintain their position.
What Do Braces Look Like Today?
- Modern braces are crafted from strong stainless steel and high-quality titanium. They utilize brackets, an archwire, and elastic ligatures to achieve their function.
- Depending on the manufacturer, silver-colored brackets vary in shape and size and are attached to the front surface of each tooth.
- The teeth, in this process, connect to one another using a metal archwire. This wire applies pressure to the teeth that need alignment, gradually guiding them into their correct positions.
- A ligature, whether elastic or metal, secures the orthodontic wire and braces together. The wire moves the teeth, while each bracket acts as an anchor on every tooth. During regular orthodontic checkups, the wires are adjusted or replaced to maintain the required pressure that aligns both the teeth and the jaw.
Who Needs Them?
Traditional braces serve as an excellent choice for everyone, including children, teenagers, and adults. They are especially favored among children for their durability and affordability. Kids also adapt quickly to wearing them as their oral tissues toughen, making them barely noticeable. This comfort is largely due to modern metal wires and brackets that are less irritating to soft tissues.
Plus, the rubber bands that go around the braces are available in vibrant colors, allowing for customization at every visit. This offers kids an exciting way to express themselves, celebrate special occasions, or support their favorite teams. For older teens and adults who prefer a more understated look, there are also bands in neutral shades like silver, gray, and white.
How Do You Maintain Your Braces?
You’ll need to follow the orthodontist’s guidelines to maintain dental health during braces treatment. This involves eating only approved foods and diligently brushing and flossing after meals. It’s important to shield your teeth from harmful plaque buildup around the brackets and avoid permanent stains caused by inadequate oral care.
When considering orthodontic treatment, traditional braces are widely chosen to effectively address smile alignment issues. If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation with our experienced orthodontist, please give us a call today.