Contrary to popular belief, orthodontic treatment is not merely a matter of aesthetics, but one of the fundamental requirements for a proper bite and chewing function, as well as for long-term oral hygiene. In modern dentistry, there are now numerous options to choose from should the need arise.
Although traditional metal braces are still available, more and more people are opting instead for more discreet, invisible solutions, such as Invisalign, for example.
For this reason, many patients ask themselves: which type of braces is best suited to their needs, and in which cases are they most recommended? This is, of course, a difficult question to answer, as the decision depends on a number of factors, but is primarily determined by the extent and nature of the misalignment.
In this article, we’ll now take a detailed look at the most commonly used types of braces and help you work out when and which one might be the best choice.
When is orthodontic treatment needed?
Our patients most often visit us for orthodontic consultations when they wish to correct some aesthetic irregularities.
Also common are cases where our patients arrive with specific complaints such as nocturnal teeth grinding or clenching, tooth fractures or wear, bite disorders, and jaw pain.
It happens countless times that orthodontics will be the solution to these problems as well.
Ideally, the correction of tooth position begins in childhood, but it is never too late to start treatment in adulthood, as we can still achieve spectacular results thanks to our modern solutions.
What types of braces are there?
Anyone who decides on braces is guaranteed to find an option to suit their style, needs, age, and budget.
Our practice provides comprehensive information to our patients, and our specialist doctors always make recommendations according to the patient's medical needs. Traditional metal, modern porcelain, and invisible removable appliances are all available at our practice.
Let's see which type we recommend for whom!
Removable orthodontic appliance
The so-called self-ligating braces or, with the help of self-ligating braces, virtually any dental misalignment can be corrected. This is most commonly a metal brace which, using self-ligating brackets attached to the teeth, effectively yet gently straightens our crooked teeth.
While its exterior is identical to traditional braces, its construction differs, as self-ligating brackets are attached to the teeth. The archwires are not fixed by elastic and metal elements, but by a specially designed locking system.
Although wearing them is not as uncomfortable as traditional metal braces, they cannot be wholeheartedly recommended for everyone. For those with metal allergies, or those seeking optimal oral hygiene, this type of brace is not the best choice, and the for those looking for invisible braces they will have to look for other alternatives as well.
The advantages of self-ligating braces
- Smoother tooth movements:Devices that move teeth exert a very firm hold and a strong force, which makes it easier to achieve the desired result more consistently.
- Continuous force:Self-ligating braces keep the teeth under constant pressure, which increases their effectiveness.
- Easier to clean:Unlike traditional metal braces, this type does not have rubber bands, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Less irritation:Unlike traditional braces, they have a much smoother surface, so there is less chance of irritation.
- Aesthetic appearanceIt is not necessary to use the metal-coloured version; ceramic and even tooth-coloured options are now available, and they are even smaller than the traditional versions.
The disadvantages of self-ligating braces
- are generally more expensive than traditional metal braces
- It’s quite difficult to clean and keep clean
- A self-locking mechanism may break or come undone
- it’s not particularly attractive, as it’s just as visible
Instead of metal: natural-looking porcelain braces?
Self-ligating braces can also be made of porcelain, in a metal-free design. These types can also be used if someone has a metal allergy or desires a more aesthetic solution.
In this case, the orthodontic elements are not made of metal, but of durable porcelain with a natural look, matching the colour of the teeth. However (despite all its advantages), even this treatment is not able to provide a compromise-free solution for our patients seeking orthodontic treatment.
On the one hand, because treatment can last up to 18 months; on the other hand, because the barely noticeable braces are not the same as a with invisible braces.
And constant wear does not offer patients the opportunity to go about their business as freely as before orthodontic treatment during important meetings/events (or meals or their dental hygiene routine).
Would you like an invisible solution? Braces vs. Invisalign
If you're looking for an unnoticeable solution, you can also opt for internal, so-called lingual braces. The effectiveness of internal braces is the same as that of conventional versions, so almost any misalignment can be treated with them.
One of their main advantages is that they remain completely invisible during speech or laughter, as the brackets are attached to the inner surface of the teeth, on the tongue side.
As a result, irritation or discomfort often occurs when wearing internal braces, as the metal is in constant contact with the tongue, potentially even causing sores.
In the field of speech, lingual braces can also cause pronunciation problems and difficulties, especially in the first few weeks. Fortunately, patients with metal allergies – or those who wish to avoid the disadvantages of internal orthodontic appliances – do not have to forgo comfortable and invisible orthodontic treatment.
The aesthetic Invisalign braces Made from deep-drawn, durable, transparent film, it helps the wearer achieve spectacular results in as little as three months, whilst delivering its beneficial effects without the metal wires and brackets that can irritate the mouth or gums.
One of its biggest advantages is that it can be easily removed and reinserted at any time with a single movement. This way, brushing your teeth, eating, or an important meeting remain as natural an experience as before.
The only thing that changes is his smile, which becomes more perfect day by day with Invisalign.
The benefits of lingual braces
- Exceptional discretion:As it is placed on the inner surface of the teeth, this method of orthodontic treatment is characterised by exceptional discretion, meaning it is not visible even when speaking or smiling.
- An effective method:This method is just as effective as traditional orthodontic treatment, but can only be used in a limited number of cases.
- Personalised treatment:All lingual braces are made to measure, tailored to the patient’s and their teeth’s specific needs.
- There is no visible enamel wear:As they are placed on the inner surfaces of the teeth, this helps to avoid the marks caused by pressure on the enamel that can sometimes be seen after wearing external braces.
- It causes even less irritation:As it is positioned on the inner surface of the teeth, it does not come into contact with the lips or the sensitive areas of the mouth at all, so it causes even less irritation.
The disadvantages of lingual braces
- uncomfortable, irritating, may cause sores on the tongue
- difficulty producing sound from the tongue; speech problems may arise
- costly
- It’s more unpleasant to eat whilst chewing
Invisible removable Invisalign braces
As well as fixed braces, you can choose the Invisalign invisible removable braces as well. Unlike traditional braces, these are not fixed to the teeth and can be removed at any time.
This solution is extremely popular among our adult patients, and more and more people are seeking us out interested in Invisalign orthodontics.
The greatest advantage of this method is that the transparent orthodontic aligners encase the teeth, are barely noticeable, and can be removed at any time. This makes eating, cleaning teeth and the appliance easier, and it is an extremely aesthetic and comfortable solution for those who would be bothered by a fixed appliance.
During the treatment, the aligners need to be changed approximately every 3-4 weeks, allowing us to effectively correct minor misalignments in the oral cavity in a short period, even within 3 months.
The treatment is only truly effective if the patient cooperates with the dentist, follows their advice, and adheres to the generally recommended wear time of 20-22 hours per day.
During orthodontic treatment, we take a 3D digital impression of the patient’s teeth and use this to create the aligners, which are fully customised.
The benefits of Invisalign braces
- An invisible solution:It is no coincidence that Invisalign is known as the ‘invisible helper’, as the clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a good alternative for adults too.
- Can be withdrawn at any time:During treatment, the Invisalign aligners can be removed at any time – for example, when eating, having your photograph taken or carrying out oral hygiene – but you must ensure that you wear them for 20–22 hours a day.
- Comfortable, non-irritating:Thanks to the rounded, smooth-surfaced aligners, Invisalign is very comfortable, easy to get used to and, in most cases, completely irritation-free to wear.
- Expected outcomes:As the creation of Invisalign aligners is preceded by very thorough planning, the patient can see the end result even before treatment begins, so they know exactly what to expect at the end of the treatment.
- Fewer checks:Invisalign braces do not require constant adjustments; patients change the aligners themselves, so they require far fewer check-ups than their traditional counterparts.
- It fits in well with everyday life:Whether for children, teenagers or adults, Invisalign is a good choice for everyone, as it doesn’t get in the way of studying, working or everyday tasks.
Things to watch out for when wearing braces
Whichever type of braces you choose, you're one step closer to achieving your dream smile.
The methods used today are effective, and the appliances can be easily accustomed to, even after just a few days. However, there are a few aspects that are worth paying special attention to when wearing orthodontic braces.
Proper oral hygiene, thorough tooth cleaning, and regular dental hygiene treatments are essential to maintain the health of your teeth even while wearing braces.
With fixed braces, more time needs to be spent cleaning the teeth, with particular emphasis on cleaning the areas around the brackets and alongside the archwire.
In addition to at-home dental care, we recommend that our orthodontic patients undergo a professional in-chair dental cleaning and hygiene treatment every three months.
Choose this option whilst undergoing orthodontic treatment our discounted teeth-cleaning package, during which our experienced dental hygienists thoroughly clean the teeth to remove tartar and clean the braces to remove debris, thereby preventing the build-up of bacteria, gum inflammation and tooth decay.
When and which type of braces are recommended?
If you’re still having trouble choosing the right type of braces, let’s take a brief look at when and which type might be best for you, based on the nature of the problem:
- For mild cases of crooked teeth, any type of braces will do the job, but if aesthetics are a priority, Invisalign is the best option.
- In cases of more severe malocclusion, Invisalign and lingual braces are often not sufficient, so traditional metal braces are essential in such cases.
- If aesthetics are your sole concern, then either lingual braces or Invisalign are the perfect solution. The latter is particularly suitable if the aim is to correct more significant misalignments.
- Anyone who enjoys sport or leads an active lifestyle would also be better off avoiding metal braces and opting for the Invisalign solution instead.
Frequently asked questions
Apart from aesthetics, why is orthodontic treatment important?
This is because misaligned teeth cause problems with biting and chewing, which in the long term can lead to joint problems and poor oral hygiene.
Is there an upper age limit for orthodontic treatment?
Basically, no. If a person’s teeth are suitable for the treatment, and their gums are in good condition and their oral hygiene is adequate, then the treatment can be carried out at any time.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
It depends on the individual patient in every case. For some people, 6–12 months is sufficient for the teeth to recover, but in cases of more severe damage, this may take as long as 24–36 months.
Is orthodontic treatment painful?
This depends on the technique used. With traditional metal braces, patients often complain of pain, but with Invisalign, the most they may experience is a slight sensation of pressure.
Can all dental irregularities be treated with braces?
In most cases, yes, but in cases of very severe deformities that have already affected the jawbone, surgical intervention is required.
What is the difference between traditional braces and self-ligating braces?
The main difference is that the self-ligating method does not use rubber bands; instead, a built-in locking mechanism secures the archwire in place, making it much gentler on the teeth and even making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
Can self-ligating braces be used on children?
Of course, this method of orthodontic treatment can be used regardless of age, provided that all the necessary conditions are met.
Is the lingual brace just as effective as a traditional one?
As this type of brace is attached to the inner, tongue-side surface of the teeth, it does have its limitations, but with appropriate planning, it can be used to correct even more complex malocclusions.
Why are lingual braces more expensive than self-ligating braces?
Mainly because it is a completely personalised and technically much more complex form of treatment, which, moreover, is not even visible.
Are Invisalign aligners really invisible?
Not entirely, but thanks to the transparent aligners, this is currently the most discreet form of orthodontic treatment, which is very difficult to spot even at close range.
Can all dental misalignments be treated using the Invisalign method?
No, but it is particularly effective for more common, mild and moderate deviations; indeed, with sufficient patience, it can even be applied to some more serious problems, though it does have its limitations.
Which type of braces is the most aesthetically pleasing?
All things considered, Invisalign offers the best solution in this respect, as it is not only effective and comfortable, but also exceptionally discreet.
Can braces cause teeth to become discoloured?
Provided we take care to maintain good oral hygiene, this can easily be prevented. From this point of view, too, Invisalign offers the greatest peace of mind.
What is the retention phase in orthodontics?
The retention phase is the period following the completion of treatment during which it is still necessary to wear retainers – in the case of Invisalign, for example, on an as-and-when basis – so that the teeth become stable in their new positions and do not shift back.
What determines the cost of orthodontic treatment?
There are a number of factors, but the main ones are the type of treatment chosen, the duration of the treatment, and the severity of the problem being treated.
We welcome you in our practice!
Have we piqued your interest? Ask our dentist for their help in achieving your harmonious smile.
Our experts will tailor an orthodontic treatment plan to your needs, resulting in a happy, confident, and healthy smile. Our experienced, well-prepared, caring, and always cheerful team members are happy to be at your service with their full expertise, up-to-date knowledge, care, and complete attention.
