April 13, 2022
One of the factors most likely to deter patients from taking the plunge with traditional braces? The metal.
From the discomfort of the brackets pushing against the soft skin inside the cheek to the general insecurity that comes with a smile full of metal, let’s be honest: many patients are looking for an alternative that brings them both physical and emotional comfort.
And if you’re beginning to wonder what that all may entail, we’re here to answer your questions:
#1 — What Alternatives Are There?
If a patient needs the strength of traditional brackets and wires but would also prefer a more discreet solution, ceramic braces offer the ideal middle ground. This is because “the ceramic material used in these braces can be either clear or tooth-colored,” Healthline explains.
Invisible aligners, too, can shift the teeth back into alignment without drastically changing the appearance of one’s smile during treatment. A patient needs only to wear and clean their trays regularly — which will then be changed every six weeks or so to continue the orthodontic process.
Finally, INBRACE is the newest alternative to traditional braces. Some patients are simply ineligible for invisible aligners, as the work they need is too extensive. Thankfully, INBRACE involves the application of metal wires and brackets behind the teeth, rendering them the most discreet option available.
#2 — What Alternatives Are Right for Me?
The option that is best suited to a patient depends entirely on their individual smile. Even if a patient has an idea of what kind of treatment they want, they may need another form of orthodontic care.
That’s why you should never order invisible aligners online without first consulting an orthodontist.
“Because of orthodontists’ extensive education and familiarity with the many types of ‘appliances’ (devices used to move teeth/align jaws) available, they can knowledgeably suggest what is right for you, based on your treatment goals and lifestyle needs,” according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAC).
For example, as mentioned previously, invisible aligners cannot be used to correct all smiles. This includes instances of…
- Overcrowding
- Overbite
- Underbite
- And more
#3 — Who Should I Seek Treatment With?
At the end of the day, what kind of treatment you’ll undergo, as well as how long it may take, will depend entirely on what you and your chosen orthodontic team agree on. Thus, you’ll want to find a trusted orthodontist with a history of providing comprehensive treatment.
So why not reach out to SouthShore Orthodontics?
When you work with our team, you’ll find exceptional results in a welcoming environment for patients of all ages! What’s more, we offer Invisalign in addition to Simply SouthShore, custom-made clear aligners that are printed right here in our own office!
Call our office today at (813) 815-0080 today to schedule your FREE consultation.