The different types of braces can get overwhelming these days. For many of us, past options were pretty limited to bulky, uncomfortable metal braces, but thankfully, a lot has changed over the years. While metal braces are still the most durable and efficient option, they have some tough competition with the latest modern options like ceramic braces and clear aligners like Invisalign.
Choosing between the types of braces is just as important of an investment decision as deciding where to go for a family vacation. Okay, maybe vacation is usually more fun than braces, but your best smile investment is worth the results and will last a lifetime. With the many advanced options available, you can likely plan your new smile and your next vacation without sacrificing your budget or lifestyle.
Dr. Wilson and his experienced team at Wilson Orthodontics are committed to providing high-quality orthodontic treatment options that fit your needs, lifestyle, and budget for patients in Frisco, TX. Dr. Wilson believes you should have the smile you’ve always dreamed of, and he works hard to ensure each person loves their smile. Let’s go over the different types of braces we specialize in here at Wilson Orthodontics so that you can be prepared for your first visit on your journey to your new smile!
In any discussion about orthodontic treatment, you should consider the difference between your fixed and removable options. At one time, all braces were fixed braces. They adhered to your teeth, and that was the end of the structural design, much less options for customization or aesthetics. Now, not only have your fixed braces options expanded, but you also have removable braces options that can give you an efficient treatment while meeting your personal style and easing your hygiene routine during the process. It’s like you can have your cake and eat it, too; just remember to floss and brush well afterward.
Fixed Orthodontic AppliancesFixed braces are orthodontic appliances that are applied directly to your teeth and can only be removed by Dr. Wilson at the end of your treatment. There is no denying the power that comes from a direct bond in manipulating the movements of your teeth, gums, and even jaw. When it is proven the most efficient way to straighten your smile, the only thing that can be done to improve the process is to make it more comfortable and visually pleasing, or at least less visibly noticeable. That’s just what has happened with traditional metal braces. They aren’t so conventional anymore.
The old bulky brackets have been replaced with smaller, lighter, and much sleeker brackets made of high-quality metal or ceramic materials. Many patients even find the new color options for ligature bands make their treatment more personal! The archwire is even thinner while being stronger. For our Wilson Orthodontics metal braces patients, Dr. Wilson utilizes a self-ligating bracket from American Orthodontics for improved speed and accuracy in your treatment. Self-ligating brackets like these have little doors where Dr. Wilson will thread your archwire and secure it by closing the doors. In some cases, he may use elastic bands to provide a bit extra security. Compared to standard brackets used today, the design of this bracket provides better comfort during tooth movement.
Another modern fixed orthodontic appliance that has come about more recently is an option called lingual braces. Lingual braces still utilize the direct bond of brackets to your teeth, but instead of placing the brackets on the front side of your teeth, this method places the brackets on the back side of your teeth. In order for this option to be efficient, a special archwire must be utilized. Many patients find that while this is an aesthetic option, it does take a bit to get used to the placement– and with the innovative option of clear braces, is it worth it?
Removable braces are not bonded to your teeth and can be removed from your mouth. Removable orthodontic appliances like retainers and mouthguards are well-known maintenance devices that ensure your smile doesn’t shift or incur trauma after your teeth and bite have been aligned, but they are not actual straightening options. A less-known appliance called palatal expanders help create space in your mouth for the proper growth and alignment of your teeth, so while they seem to straighten your smile, they are usually not used alone for that goal.
When creating that smile alignment that changes your life with removable orthodontic braces, our Wilson Orthodontics team has plenty of experience utilizing Invisalign clear aligners. Clear aligners work much like post-metal braces retainers of the past, except as a treatment option, they are stronger and must be worn for 22 hours each day to ensure your best results. This nearly invisible option will gently move your teeth into place based on the precise movements of your treatment plan without compromising your appearance. Because you can remove them, you are not restricted in what you can eat and can even take them to get a thorough floss and brush as you would outside of orthodontic treatment.
By pairing state-of-the-art technology with our thorough understanding of the movement and growth of the teeth and jaws, our skilled Wilson Orthodontics team can treat many dental issues like gapped or crowded teeth, protruding or impacted teeth, and the many variations of bite concerns. While traditional metal braces are the most common option for the majority of the patients we treat, you have several great options that will lead to a great smile in the end!
We are committed to giving patients in and around Frisco, TX, amazing smiles through the latest orthodontic treatments. Dr. Wilson and his compassionate teams work hard to ensure you and your family feel right at home each time you step into our offices. You can expect quality care and excellent customer service because our team is dedicated to your unique needs. Schedule your FREE consultation today to determine which treatment best suits your individual needs and smile goals. Our family can’t wait to meet yours!