How to Choose the Right Braces for You

Your Guide to buying the best Braces

Overview

This guide is designed to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision when buying braces. We will cover topics such as types of braces, the different materials available, the pros and cons of each type, and what to look for when choosing a brace. We will also provide you with helpful tips and advice on how to take care of your braces and maintain their effectiveness. With this guide, you can be confident that you are making the right choice when it comes to purchasing braces.

Key features

  1. Type - Orthodontic braces come in a variety of styles, including metal, ceramic, lingual, and self-ligating braces. Metal braces are the most common type and the least expensive. Ceramic braces are less visible and more comfortable, while lingual braces are completely hidden, but may take longer to adjust. Self-ligating braces are metal braces with clips that hold the wires securely in place and may need fewer adjustments.
  2. Size - The size of the braces should be taken into consideration. Larger braces can be more time-consuming to adjust and may cause more discomfort. Smaller braces are less noticeable and may not require as much time for adjustments.
  3. Materials - Orthodontic braces are made up of several different materials, including metal brackets, wires, and elastic bands. It is important to consider the type of material used for each component when selecting braces.
  4. Price - The cost of braces can vary significantly depending on the type and size of the braces. It is important to compare prices before selecting a particular type of braces.
  5. Durability - Braces should be durable enough to withstand everyday activities. Look for braces that are designed to be resistant to damage and long-lasting.
  6. Comfort - Orthodontic braces should be comfortable to wear. Look for braces with adjustable components that are designed to minimize discomfort.
  7. Maintenance - Braces require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. Look for braces that come with easy-to-follow instructions for care and maintenance.

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Important considerations

Pros

  • Prevents teeth from further shifting over time: Braces are designed to slowly move teeth into their desired position, which helps to prevent any further shifting of teeth as time progresses.
  • Improves overall oral health: By correcting misalignments, Braces can improve overall oral health by providing a better fit for teeth and allowing for easier cleaning and maintenance.
  • Improves appearance and confidence: Braces can help to improve a person's appearance and boost their self-confidence by correcting misalignments and giving them a more attractive smile.
  • Corrects poor bites (malocclusion): Poor bites, or malocclusion, can cause a wide range of issues, including difficulty chewing or speaking. Braces can help to correct these issues, improving overall oral health and function.

Cons

  • Cost: Braces are expensive and are usually not covered by insurance, meaning buyers may have to pay out of pocket.
  • Pain and Discomfort: Braces may cause pain and discomfort, and may require adjustments and frequent visits to the orthodontist.
  • Food Restrictions: Certain foods may be difficult to eat while wearing braces, and may even cause damage to the braces, so buyers may need to adhere to a diet that excludes certain foods.
  • Hygiene: Braces can be difficult to clean and can make dental hygiene more difficult.
  • Appearance: Braces can be visible and may affect a person’s appearance while wearing them.

Best alternatives

  1. Retainers - Orthodontic devices used to hold teeth in place after braces are removed.
  2. Invisalign - An alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of clear, plastic aligners that fit over the teeth.
  3. Palatal Expanders - Orthodontic devices used to widen the upper jaw to accommodate a better fit for the teeth and jaw.
  4. Headgear - Orthodontic devices worn on the head to help with the alignment of the teeth and jaw.
  5. Bonded Retainers - Orthodontic devices that are glued to the back of teeth to hold them in place.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Braces - Orthodontic appliances used to correct misaligned or crooked teeth
  • Bracket - A small square metal or ceramic attachment bonded to the front surface of a tooth, used to help attach the braces to the teeth
  • Archwire - A thin metal wire that connects the brackets and that applies force to the teeth to straighten them
  • Elastic Bands - Colorful rubber bands that attach to the brackets and are used to apply additional force to the teeth
  • Anchor Band - A metal ring that encircles the back teeth and is used to support elastic bands
  • Ligature - A small rubber band used to secure the archwire to the bracket
  • Pillar Posts - Short metal posts that are bonded to the teeth to provide additional anchorage and support for the braces
  • Headgear - An orthodontic appliance consisting of a face mask and straps used to apply pressure and move jaws and teeth

Common questions

  1. What are the different types of braces?
    • The most common types of braces are metal (traditional or stainless steel), ceramic, lingual, and Damon.
  2. When should I consider braces?
    • It is typically recommended that a child start getting an orthodontic evaluation when they turn 7 years old. However, you can start the process at any age depending on your individual needs.
  3. How do braces work?
    • Braces work by applying pressure to the teeth in order to gradually move them into the desired position. The braces are adjusted periodically to make sure the teeth are moving in the right direction.
  4. How long do braces need to be worn?
    • The amount of time needed to wear braces varies from person to person. Generally, it takes 18 to 24 months for the braces to be removed.
  5. Are there any food restrictions when wearing braces?
    • Yes, it is important to avoid eating anything hard, sticky, or chewy when wearing braces. This includes candy, gum, popcorn, and hard fruits and vegetables.
  6. How often do I need to visit the orthodontist when wearing braces?
    • Typically, most patients need to visit the orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks while wearing braces. During these visits, the orthodontist will check the progress of the braces and make any necessary adjustments.

Trivia

In the mid-1990s, the Swedish Orthodontic Society held a competition called the "Hockey Brace Face Contest". Participants were invited to submit photos of their braces-decorated smiles and the winner was given a free trip to the Swedish National Hockey Championship. The winner had to show the most creative and colorful display of braces, and the event was a great success and created a lot of interest in orthodontic care. The competition was a playful way to promote braces and showed how fun it can be to wear them. Source: SleepRight

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.