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Differences Between Traditional Braces and Clear Braces
It is said that you are not fully dressed until you wear a smile. Therefore, individuals desire a beautiful and well-aligned smile that improves their appearance. Sadly, only a small number of people boast of a naturally straight smile. Most need orthodontic treatment from a dentist in Woodbridge to enhance their smiles.
Orthodontic treatment in Woodbridge, VA, requires the use of braces. The dentist may use either traditional braces or clear braces to correct teeth that are out of alignment. Both give the same results but appear and work differently. Continue reading for the differences between the two types of braces.
Reasons for Getting Orthodontic Treatment
Dental treatment by an orthodontist near you focuses on realigning teeth to:
- Correct improper bites like overbite, crossbite, open bite, and upper bite.
- Improve the appearance of teeth and smile
- Close gaps between teeth.
- prevent future dental problems
- improve the function of teeth
- Straighten crooked teeth
- Promote the long-term health of your gums and teeth.
What Are Traditional Braces?
These are appliances made of wires, brackets, and bands used to straighten teeth. Although they have been in use for years, braces have evolved. Advancements in orthodontic technology have resulted in smaller and less noticeable braces. They are faster and more effective than those used years ago.
What Are Clear Braces?
These are orthodontic appliances made of ceramic. However, they straighten teeth just like traditional metal braces. Clear braces use wires and brackets to move teeth to their correct positions. The ceramic material enables them to blend in the mouth since it closely matches the teeth’s enamel color. Therefore, people can straighten their teeth discreetly can use clear braces.
Similarities Between Traditional Braces and Clear Braces
- Both orthodontic appliances work in the same way to achieve proper dental alignment. For example, they are worn for the same duration when treating similar misalignment issues. In addition, both braces use brackets and wires to create gentle pressure on teeth and change their alignment.
- The patient must maintain excellent dental hygiene while undergoing treatment. Generally, this applies to patients using either traditional or clear braces. Regular brushing and flossing remove food and plaque stuck in the wires and brackets. Cleaning helps prevent dental health problems. Patients should attend dental exams and cleanings at the dental office in Woodbridge.
- The user has to resist eating sticky foods like caramel during their treatment. They should also avoid frequently consuming hard foods like popcorn and apples. These foods can damage or displace the metal interfering with the treatment.
- Orthodontic treatment using either brace requires you to visit a dentist ear you frequently. The dentist adjusts the tension in the wires to ensure that teeth move as desired.
Differences Between Traditional Braces and Clear Braces
- The braces are made from different materials. Traditional braces consist of metal brackets, while clear braces have ceramic brackets.
- Traditional braces give patients an unnatural look. This is because of the metal covering their teeth. On the other hand, clear braces result in a natural-looking appearance. They achieve this since the ceramic matches the color of natural teeth.
- Clear braces are prone to staining because of their lighter color. Traditional braces do not stain easily.
- Traditional braces are more durable than clear braces. The ceramic material used in clear aligners can break easily. So, the dentist in Woodbridge will recommend conventional braces for teeth that need substantial adjustments.
- Clear braces are more comfortable in the mouth than traditional braces.
Choosing Between Metal Braces and Clear Braces
Choosing the perfect type of braces for your treatment is not easy. However, a dentist can help you select the proper orthodontic treatment in Woodbridge, VA. Before starting orthodontics, the dental experts will discuss your braces option with you. Dr. Ghobryal will examine your teeth to determine the ideal braces for your type of malocclusion.
The expert may use different teeth straightening devices such as clear aligners. These are used when the patient does not require extensive orthodontic work. Clear aligners are more comfortable, discreet, and work faster than traditional or clear braces. Schedule an appointment with us at Woodbridge Comfort Dental Care. We offer all types of braces for optimum results