We often get asked by our patients what alternatives there are to metal braces. For many people, wearing traditional braces may not seem the most convenient, especially if you're self-conscious about your teeth, or if you have a job where wearing metal braces might not be encouraged.There are lots of benefits to wearing traditional metal braces, and the technology has come a long way over the past few decades making it less obvious and much more comfortable than it was in years past. However there are also alternatives to braces which offer a more subtle look that you might wish to consider.
Invisalign - flexible and invisible
One alternative to braces is Invisalign which is a treatment that we offer in all of our orthodontic locations throughout New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Invisalign works through alignment trays which are created from perfect moulds of your teeth. The thin aligner trays are clear and look almost like an acrylic retainer, meaning that no one will be able to tell that you're wearing them.
Invisalign has many benefits, and a major attraction is that you can remove the tray while eating and drinking: something that traditional braces don't offer. It does require a little more commitment than metal braces, as you have to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day and change them every two weeks. Many patients quickly get used to this and appreciate the flexibility.
Clear braces — comfort and style
If the idea of Invisalign doesn't appeal to you or if your alignment problems are fairly complex, then clear braces like Damon Clear are very popular substitutes to metal braces. Damon Clear is perhaps the most well-known brand of clear braces, and at Docbraces we offer both Radiance and Empower, which are great alternatives to Damon Clear.
Clear braces, just like metal braces, have a bracket attached to each tooth, however each fitting will be made out of a clear crystal material or white ceramic which means they have a less noticeable appearance than metal braces. Because the Radiance and Empower braces do not require bands to keep the wire of the brace in place, they can also be a lot more comfortable to wear as they are more flexible than metal braces.
Getting braces is a big decision and these alternatives should be considered if you have questions or concerns about the look and feel of wearing traditional metal braces. While metal braces are very effective, depending on your lifestyle you may wish to choose one of these alternatives which offers an understated or invisible look. What's more, the technology used in these options to braces is a lot more modern and has been designed with a patient's comfort in mind.
Whatever you decide, make sure you speak to your orthodontist first to answer any questions you may have, and to weigh up the pros and cons of each treatment. At Docbraces we offer free consultations, so drop by to get your personalized treatment plan.
