Teeth and Orthodontics
Orthodontic braces are an effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. They can also help to improve your bite and oral health. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, be sure to discuss all of your options with your orthodontist to find the best solution for you. Braces in Melbourne can boost your confidence to smile.
The Different Types of Braces.
There are many different types of braces that people can choose from these days. Some people opt for traditional metal braces, while others prefer clear or tooth-colored braces. There are also braces that go behind the teeth (lingual braces) or braces that are attached to the back of the teeth ( Damon braces). Here is a closer look at the different types of braces and what they have to offer:
Metal braces are the most popular type of braces and are also the most visible. They are made of high-grade stainless steel and are very strong and durable. Metal braces are also the most affordable type of braces.
Clear or tooth-colored braces are made of a clear plastic material and are less visible than metal braces. They are just as strong and durable as metal braces, but they are more expensive.
Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth and are not visible when you smile. They are more expensive than metal braces but offer a more aesthetic look.
Damon braces are also attached to the back of the teeth but use a slide mechanism to hold the wire in place. This type of brace is less visible than metal braces and is more comfortable to wear.
How do Braces work?
If you have ever had braces or know someone who has, you may have wondered how they actually work to straighten teeth. braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments used today. While the look of braces has changed over the years, the basic premise is still the same. By applying gentle, consistent pressure, braces move teeth into their proper positions.
There are different types of braces, but metal braces are the most common. They consist of brackets that are bonded to your teeth with a special type of glue and are connected by a wire. The wire is what actually applies the pressure to your teeth and moves them into place.
As your teeth begin to move, you will need to see your orthodontist for adjustments. During these visits, the wire will be tightened or replaced in order to continue moving your teeth. You will also be given a new rubber band to wear.
The length of time you will need to wear braces varies from person to person but is usually around two years. Once your braces are removed, you will need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new, straight position.
The Benefits of Braces.
If you’re considering braces, you may be wondering what the benefits are. Braces can improve your smile and your bite, and they can also make eating and speaking easier. Here are some other benefits of braces:
- They can improve your oral health.
Braces can help to align your teeth and jaw, which can improve your oral health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, and that can help to prevent decay and gum disease.
- They can boost your self-esteem.
A straighter, healthier smile can do wonders for your self-esteem. If you’re unhappy with your smile, braces can help you to feel better about yourself.
- They can relieve pain.
If you have crooked teeth, you may experience pain in your jaw or in your teeth. Braces can help to align your teeth and relieve that pain.
- They can improve your speech.
If your teeth are misaligned, it can affect your speech. Braces can help to correct that and improve your speech.
The Risks of Braces.
It’s no secret that having braces can be a bit of a pain – quite literally. But while most people are only concerned about the discomfort that comes with metal wires and brackets attached to their teeth, there are actually a number of risks that come with braces that many people are unaware of. Here are just a few of the potential risks associated with braces:
- Infection: Because braces are placed directly on the teeth, they can provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to gum disease and other infections.
- Cavities: Braces make it difficult to brush and floss properly, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities.
- Damage to teeth: If braces are not placed correctly, they can actually cause damage to the teeth or roots. In some cases, the brackets can even come loose and puncture the gum tissue.
- Allergic reactions: Some people are allergic to the materials used in braces, which can lead to irritation, redness, and swelling.
The Cost of Braces
If your child has been recommended braces by an orthodontist, you may be wondering how much they will cost. The cost of braces can vary depending on the type of braces, the severity of the misalignment, and the length of time the braces will be worn. Here is a breakdown of the average cost of braces in the United States.
The average cost of metal braces is $3,000 to $6,000. Metal braces are the most common type of braces. They are strong and durable and can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues.
The average cost of ceramic braces is $4,000 to $8,000. Ceramic braces are made of clear or tooth-colored brackets. They are less visible than metal braces, but they are also more fragile.
The average cost of lingual braces is $8,000 to $10,000. Lingual braces are placed on the back of the teeth, making them invisible from the front. They are the most expensive type of braces, but they are also the most discreet.