Orthodontic braces: so many to chose from …
If we turn back time and try to take a trip 20-30 years ago, we can clearly see how orthodontic braces would look like: we all have the image of that teenager with metal braces, smiling and feeling complexed because of his/her metal mouth look.
The “nerd” or “geek” who has eyeglasses and those braces that make talking and smiling so difficult. What most movies fail to show us is how that “geek” will look in just months after the treatment is over. Metal braces and any kind of orthodontic devices in the end do look funny and might be uncomfortable, but the results are always stunning. In 1-2 years (maybe a little more for some very complex orthodontic cases) that metal mouth will sport an amazing smile, just great to use to advertise a new brand of toot-paste or any other product that requires a lot of smiling.
Even if most orthodontic patients fear braces, we do advise you to use them and do the treatment. After some months you won’t recognize your teeth, you’ll have a perfect smile and a new face to show.
We used that “time machine” analogy since today things are different in orthodontics. Now we have more than just metal braces. We can use ceramics, lingual braces, even invisible plastic ones that really don’t show. Did you think that you don’t have what to chose from? Think again.
And now, to the goal of our article: HOW DO I CHOSE THE ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?
- the severity of your orthodontic case. If your teeth are too crooked you might not qualify for the Invisible braces (Invisalign). In this case your orthodontist can advise you to use another system: Damon or Lingual (Incognito)
- the need for extractions (or not). Some braces types (Damon comes to mind) might not require extractions, others might do
- what your orthodontist can provide. Not can provide you with Incognito, Invisalign or Damon. Most of them have just “regular” metal braces (with ligatures), while others are licensed to use all systems.
- price. Some orthodotic treatments are more expensive while others cost less. Not to mention some are not covered by your health insurance.
- the need to wear other devices: headgear for example.
- treatment time: some systems work faster, some slower
- diction: in some cases the lisp the patient faces (at least in the first days) is more noticeable. For a radio DJ for instance or a public speaker, this can become a problem
- looks. Some might not love the “metal mouth” look (for a 30-40 year old this might be harder), while others don’t care about aspect too much and can settle for anything.
- allergies. Some people might develop allergic reactions to Nickel.
So, here you have some things to consider when chosing an orthodontic treatment. It’s not that simple anymore and thank God we have some excellent systems to chose from. There are good solutions or even combinations so that we can straighten our teeth the way we want.
Tags: braces, Damon braces, Incognito, Invisalign, invisible braces, Lingual braces, metal braces, orthodontic treatment, orthodontics