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When everything you hear in the media is about newer alternatives to braces, such as Invisalign®, it can be easy to forget about traditional metal braces. You may even incorrectly assume that traditional braces are no longer a treatment option. However, traditional braces still have their role in orthodontic treatment, and in some cases, they’re even the preferred option.
Furthermore, today’s metal braces are different from what they were 30 years ago. In this blog, Joseph Yousefian, DMD, of Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults explains more about metal braces and the circumstances under which they might be a better option.
Traditional braces are made of metal, which is the primary similarity between current and past braces. Brackets are bonded to your teeth, and wires move your teeth into the correct positions. And, as with braces of the past, care is needed in choosing what you eat and drink.
However, today’s metal braces are much smaller than they used to be, taking up less of the surface area of the tooth. In addition, there’s also the option of less visible braces, such as lingual braces. These braces are attached to the backs of your teeth, making them less noticeable.
Traditional metal braces have several advantages over other teeth-straightening options. Some of the circumstances under which we might recommend traditional braces include the following:
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are only intended for teens and adults. However, sometimes a child may need orthodontic treatment before their teen years, which means traditional braces may be a more age-appropriate option.
In some cases, traditional metal braces may move your teeth more quickly than plastic aligners. If this is the case for you, this will shorten the duration of treatment.
If you have a complex orthodontic issue, such as gaps between your teeth, overcrowding, an underbite, or an overbite, traditional braces may be the most effective treatment option. Traditional braces can also help to correct more serious jaw alignment problems.
There’s no question that orthodontic work is a good investment, but it can also be expensive, especially if you have more than one child who may need treatment. However, metal braces are usually more affordable than plastic aligners. The affordability can be a big factor for some families.
Traditional metal braces are more durable than plastic aligners. Not only is metal a more durable material than plastic, but metal braces also have the advantage of not being removable or easily lost.
If you or your child need braces, traditional metal braces may be the perfect way to go. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults today.
