Maybe you want to improve your smile but feel that you missed the opportunity for orthodontic treatment. That’s not always the case. There are several popular types of braces for adults, and each offers different benefits for your experience as a patient. For instance, metal braces are appreciated for their durability and reliability. Alternatively, patients might prefer clear aligners due to their subtle appearance and removable, comfortable design.
At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, we work with adult orthodontic patients like you. No matter your smile goals or age, we will help you find the ideal path to achieve results you love.
Types of Braces for Adults
When evaluating braces for adult patients, we need to balance impact and practicality. To that end, we might recommend metal braces for severe correction and bite issues.
We suggest ceramic braces when patients feel anxious about the appearance of metal braces but still need more severe correction, or when they would struggle to stick to a clear aligner treatment.
Lastly, we promote clear aligners in mild to moderate cases where the patient is likely to follow instructions and wear their aligners as planned.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces effectively correct complex misalignments and bite problems.
The biggest drawback, especially for adults looking to straighten their smile, is their obvious appearance. Some patients feel that classic braces draw too much attention to their orthodontic treatment.
Another major drawback is the difficulty of cleaning them, as specialized tools are needed to reach tight spaces. Thoroughly removing food and plaque from the brackets requires time and effort. But it’s also essential for maintaining a healthy smile during and after treatment.
Traditional braces also come with several food restrictions. For instance, you should avoid sticky, crunchy, or hard foods, as they may damage your braces.
While metal braces are a powerful tool in orthodontic treatment for adults, some patients prefer less noticeable alternatives.
Ceramic Braces
For a less obvious appearance, consider ceramic braces. Also called clear braces, these orthodontic appliances consist of tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural teeth.
Although they still feel a bit bulky in the mouth, ceramic braces are smoother than their metal counterparts.
Compared to metal braces, ceramic braces are more fragile and prone to breaking. The light color makes them more likely to stain over time.
You’ll also face the same food restrictions as metal braces, as there are still many areas where food can get trapped.
For a less obvious, more comfortable substitute, clear aligners may fit your needs.
Invisalign® Clear Aligners
The most natural-looking type of braces for adults is clear aligners, sold under the brand name Invisalign®.
Clear aligners work similarly to ceramic and metal braces, using continuous pressure to move the teeth into the correct position. Unlike more traditional braces, they appear barely noticeable when you smile and talk.
Patients have consistently reported that they find clear aligners more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable than a bracket-and-wire system. This is because it replaces bulky or sharp structures with a smooth, plastic material that fits seamlessly against the teeth.
Another benefit of Invisalign is that the plastic trays are easily removable, so you won’t face any food restrictions! Simply remove the aligners to eat, clean your teeth, and put them back in place.
Their flexibility also places greater responsibility on you, as the patient, to comply with treatment. Your orthodontist will stress that it’s crucial to wear your aligners for 22 hours a day. If you don’t follow these instructions, your timeline for a straighter smile will grow longer.
Invisalign works for many mild to moderate orthodontic corrections. However, for the most severe orthodontic corrections, you might need to use ceramic or metal braces as your best bet.
Our practice has extensive experience supporting adult orthodontic patients. As such, we’re happy to learn about your smile goals and reservations to recommend the best solutions for you.
Learn About Types of Braces for Adults
Orthodontic treatment isn’t out of the question just because you’re an adult. There are many types of braces for adults that correct smile and bite issues so patients like you can move forward in their lives. Whether you need the durable corrective power of metal braces, the subtle appearance of clear aligners, or a combination of the two with ceramic braces, we’re happy to identify the best way to achieve your dream smile.
At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, we want you to be fully informed about the best options for aligning your teeth. That’s why we don’t charge you for any visits until treatment begins. Book a free consultation today.
