Understanding the Different Types of Braces to Enhance Your Smile

When most people think about braces, they picture traditional metal braces. While traditional metal braces have been used for decades and have a proven track record, they are no longer your only option. 

Phuong Le, DMD, Uyen Hoang, DMD, and their team at Le Dentistry & Associates offer different types of braces so you can get the smile of your dreams: traditional braces, clear braces, and lingual braces. 

You don’t have to make this decision on your own. We’re experts when it comes to matching the right type of braces with our patients. We review your X-ray images, perform a thorough exam and make a recommendation based on your preferences and the severity of your condition.  

Here, we discuss the types of braces we offer as well as the pros and cons of each type.

Traditional braces

Traditional metal braces rely on metal brackets and wires to slowly shift your teeth into the desired location. We cement the brackets to your teeth, and adjust or tighten the wires during subsequent appointments. 

There are many pros and cons of traditional braces. They are not discrete and can cause sores on your cheeks or tongue, but they can correct severe bite or alignment issues that other types of braces cannot. 

Clear braces

Clear braces rely on removable aligners to shift your teeth. You must wear clear aligners for 20-22 hours per day, but you can remove them for eating and brushing. 

Clear braces offer a great advantage over traditional braces because they are discreet and allow for a more comfortable eating and brushing experience.

But while clear braces work just as well as traditional braces for mild-to-moderate bite problems, they may not be right if you have a severe bite problem.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces, but instead of placing brackets on the front of your teeth, we secure these braces to the lingual side of your teeth (the side that touches your tongue). 

Research shows that lingual braces are an efficient way to achieve your orthodontic goals.

Lingual braces may be more difficult for those with a deep overbite because the back brackets may be more likely to pop off. Another potential drawback is that these brackets may be harder to clean and floss than traditional braces.

But it’s impossible for anyone to see your brackets, making them the most discrete orthodontic option available. 

What if braces aren’t right for you?

Orthodontic treatment isn’t right for everyone. Other orthodontic treatments we offer include retainers and space maintainers. You might benefit from a retainer after you’ve already had braces. Retainers keep your teeth in the desired location and prevent them from shifting out of place.  

During your consultation, we discuss your orthodontic needs, including which braces or other services are right for you or your child. Call our Norcross, Georgia, office today for an appointment.