Even though we tend to associate braces with the awkward pre-teen years, as much as 20% of orthodontics patients in the United States are adults. More and more adults are seeking out orthodontics as pressures at work and in the social world are prompting them to correct crooked, widely spaced, or protruding teeth and bite problems. Over the past couple of decades, the field of orthodontics has moved forward, and image-conscious adults have a much wider selection of orthodontics options to choose from. Today, your Riverside dentists discuss a few of the most popular types of braces for adults.

Traditional Braces

Not much has changed in the design of modern braces since the nineteenth century, which have two primary parts: the brackets, which are bonded to the surface of the teeth, and the wire, which runs through the bracket and can be tightened to move the teeth gradually.  Traditional braces are made from stainless steel and are still considered the very best orthodontic option for patients with serous orthodontic problems.

Invisalign

Arguably the most well-known brand name in the orthodontics industry, the Invisalign system uses clear plastic trays that fit snugly over the teeth to move them into alignment. Invisalign does not have the treatment range of conventional braces (for example, Invisalign won’t work for patients with severe bite problems or jaw abnormalities). However, for patients with mildly or moderately crooked, protruding, or otherwise uneven teeth, but nothing beats Invisalign for discreet, nearly invisible orthodontics.

Clear Braces

“Clear braces” refer to traditional braces that utilize tooth-colored brackets or clear brackets and, in certain cases, tooth-colored wires to achieve a discreet look. Ceramic bracket have been around since the 1980s and are practically invisible in photos. In addition, because they use conventional orthodontics to move the teeth, ceramic braces can address complex bite and alignment problems.

Visit your Temecula Dentists

If you are concerned with the way crooked, protruding, or unevenly spaced teeth are spoiling your beautiful smile,  we would be happy to visit with you. At The Oasis Family Dental, we are committed to keeping you informed about the latest discoveries and innovations in dentistry. Contact our 92591 dental office at (951) 695-2290 to schedule an appointment with one of Temecula dentists today.