If your teeth are misaligned or if your bite does not quite line up, you have several options to consider. By far the most popular solution is to have braces applied. But you may be surprised to find that braces are not what you think. When most of us think of braces, we think of the discomfort of having metal in our mouths. We also think of the added difficulty of brushing and flossing. Perhaps most importantly, we worry about how we will look with braces: a concern for both children and adults. But what are braces? And what are your options when it comes to getting braces in the 21st century?
What Are Braces?
If you have been asking, “What are braces?” look no further. Most dental braces use the same underlying technology. This consists of some kind of bracket that is bonded to each tooth and connected with wires. By manipulating and tightening the wires, a dentist or orthodontist can help your teeth to straighten over time. But the invasive, uncomfortable braces of a couple of decades ago are a thing of the past. Today’s braces are much smaller, for instance, and less visible, as well as more comfortable. And so the answer to the question, “What are braces?” is simple. They are a painless, straightforward, relatively easy way to improve your smile.
What Are Braces?: Your Options
At an experienced, full-service dentistry like South High Dental, you have several options when it comes to braces. Among your choices are:
- Traditional metal braces. “Traditional” may be the wrong term to describe these metal braces because they are smaller and more comfortable than ever. But metal braces are still the most common and popular way to straighten teeth. And there are more ways than ever to personalize them, like by using colored bands.
- Clear braces. Clear, or ceramic, braces work on the same principle as metal braces, but the fittings are transparent. Because they are less obvious, clear braces are more popular with patients who have cosmetic concerns.
- FastbracesⓇ. It takes about 18 months for traditional braces to do their work. But the Fastbraces system utilizes a unique kind of bracket. Their unique design allows the patient to wear their braces for less total time. In addition to the obvious benefit of having braces for less time, this also makes them more cost-effective.
At South High Dental family dentistry, we have more than 30 years of braces experience. And we’re happy to answer any questions you have!
A New Options: Clear Aligners
In your journey to discover “what are braces?” you have all of the above options. But you also have other braces-like options that are becoming just as popular. This alternative option is called InvisalignⓇ, and it involves clear aligning trays. In the InvisalignⓇ system, your dentist will first construct a detailed, 3D digital model of your teeth. Then they will build a custom set of trays based on your goals. A lot of dental patients prefer InvisalignⓇ because it is non-invasive. It is also an excellent alternative because the aligners are transparent, and the patient only ears them for a few months. You can make an appointment at South High Dental if you think InvisalignⓇ might be right for you.
Reach Out to South High Dental Today
South High Dental is a family practice that has served the Columbus area for more than three decades. If you need teeth-straightening services, the options and treatments that we provide might be right for you. Make an appointment today using our easy online form, or call us at 614.363.2462. Let’s make that smile shine!
