Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Different Kinds of Dental Braces

By David Stogner

Dental braces, also known as orthodontic braces, are used to fix the alignment of the teeth. The position of the teeth can also be fixed, but this depends on the individual's bite. The teeth problems that can be addressed through the use of the braces are overbites, underbites, open bites, and cross bites. The most common issue being resolved is crooked teeth. Other orthodontic tools are also used in order to properly shape the jaws and teeth. It is commonly used on teenagers and children.

How do braces work? Since teeth will only move when force is applied. The arch wire of the metal braces applies the force onto the teeth. This will help the teeth move to their proper position. During the monthly adjustment of the braces, the teeth are able to move by about a millimeter. But this will completely depend on the case of the individual. Other methods are also used that can affect how the teeth will move.

Clear braces - For some individuals, they usually prefer this type to metal braces because it goes well with the color of the teeth. Ceramic or plastic alloy are the usual materials that are used for this type but still it serves the same purpose as the metal braces. In combination with the clear braces, clear elastic and metal ties are used which blends well with the teeth's color. As compared to metal braces, the clear braces' friction is higher that is why it is more brittle. That is why this is harder to remove when the treatment is already finished.

Traditional metal braces - This is made up of stainless steel or sometimes it is used with nickel titanium. This is the usual kind of brace that is used by dentists. Traditional metal braces are not that hard to find because they are provided by a lot of orthodontic suppliers. The friction that is incurred by this brace is lessened through the use of ligating brackets.

Stainless steel braces are gold-plated. This is usually for those who are allergic with nickel. Though, it is also chosen because it can blend properly with the teeth and some individual just like the look of gold than silver.

Gold-plated stainless steel braces - When an individual is allergic to nickel, this is the usual brace that is given. Some individuals will choose this kind because they prefer the look of gold to silver.

Progressive clear retainers: This is sold in the market having the brand name of Invisalign. This is used to slowly position the teeth in their final places. This provides the same effect as the braces; the only difference is that they can be removed easily before eating. Though, this is not used for complicated teeth problems.

Shaped braces are another option. These are marketed by the company WildSmile Brackets and it works like the other usual non-shaped bracket. The pad is square shaped for the normal non-shaped braces, but for the shaped braces it can have different shapes such as star, heart, diamond, and round. - 17944

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