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Orthodontists want to provide options when it comes to straightening teeth. Understanding bulky, shiny metal isn’t the ideal option for everyone; they offer more aesthetically pleasing solutions, like ceramic braces or Invisalign clear aligners. Unfortunately, not every case can be fixed with these newer, more discreet methods of care. Sometimes, an orthodontist will suggest returning to the original or basic design – traditional braces. Discover what situations warrant this treatment and why it can be beneficial for certain smiles.
Why Would Someone Need Traditional Braces?
Traditional braces have been around for decades and are proven effective at straightening teeth and realigning overbites, underbites, and other forms of malocclusion.
Although more visible than clear aligners, this tried-and-true orthodontic system offers exceptional results, no matter how minor or complex the situation might be.
An orthodontist may recommend traditional braces if the extent of your overcrowding, gaps, or misalignment is considered “extreme” or “severe.” This means that clear aligners are unlikely to be enough to adequately move teeth, but the adherence of the brackets to the surfaces of teeth will provide the necessary tension and force to move pearly whites into place.
What Benefits Come with Traditional Metal Braces?
Wearing traditional braces presents many great benefits, including:
- They Are Not Removable: Invisalign requires greater patient compliance because trays must be removed before you eat or drink. However, metal braces are affixed to your teeth, so you don’t need to worry about remembering to take them off before mealtime.
- They Are Customizable: Metal braces can appear shiny and visible, but they can also be customized based on your preference. Many children appreciate being able to choose a unique bracket design (i.e., stars), while older patients may prefer ceramic materials for a more subtle look.
- They Are Cost-Effective: There is a greater chance of traditional braces being partially covered by dental insurance, and they are generally less expensive than other forms of orthodontic treatment.
- They Produce Reliable Results: Depending on the severity of your case, your time spent wearing metal braces may not be much less than before (2-3 years), but you can expect to see beautiful, smile-changing results.
Learning that you need traditional braces in Round Rock to achieve the kind of straighter smile you desire can be an exciting venture if you maintain the right kind of mindset. Now with more benefits than ever before, this original form of orthodontic care can help you smile more confidently for the rest of your life.
About the Author
Dr. Saba Asrar is a Round Rock orthodontist with more than 15 years of experience. Delivering beautiful results to patients in the area since 2007, she is one of the few orthodontists in the U.S. who has been selected to serve as part of the advisory board of the Council of Innovative Orthodontics for 3M. Her skills, training, and advanced expertise make her a top provider in the area for orthodontic care, and she is ready to help you finally address the severe misalignment plaguing your smile. Visit our website or call (512) 828-7900 if you are ready to watch your teeth go from skewed to straight before your eyes.
