Orthodontic Options: Fixed Appliances at Schaefer Dental Group in Lansing, Michigan
For the vast majority of orthodontic patients, wearing fixed appliances (commonly called braces) will be a major part of treatment. While traditional metal braces are still quite popular, they are no longer the only option! Schaefer Dental Group offers a variety of appliances to meet different aesthetic and treatment needs.
Fixed appliances like braces are attached to the teeth by metal bands or special cement and aren’t normally taken off until treatment is complete. They are generally needed for more comprehensive treatment than removable appliances, such as clear aligners.
Types of Fixed Braces
Metal Braces
Typically made of high-grade stainless steel, traditional metal braces remain the most common type of fixed orthodontic appliances. They consist of metal bands around the molars and smaller metal brackets cemented to the front surfaces of the other teeth. A thin metal wire (archwire) runs through the brackets, gently guiding the teeth into position.
Metal braces remain popular because they offer a reliable, effective, and economical treatment option. Today’s braces are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable to wear than those of the past. For a less traditional look, patients can choose colorful elastics for the brackets.
Ceramic Braces
Clear ceramic braces are a variation on the traditional system that provides a far less noticeable method of treatment. They use the same components as metal braces, but the brackets on the front side of the teeth are made of a translucent ceramic material that blends in with the tooth’s natural color.
This system is a favorite for adults because, unless you look closely, it’s hard to notice they’re there. While the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, there are a few trade-offs: ceramic brackets can be less durable, and the elastic bands that attach them to the archwire can stain (though they are changed monthly). Ceramic braces also cost more than metal ones, but many people find the benefit of having an inconspicuous appliance outweighs the costs.
Lingual Braces
For truly invisible fixed braces, special appliances called lingual braces can be placed on the tongue side of the teeth. They work the same way as other metal braces but are completely hidden behind the teeth themselves.
Lingual braces are not the proper treatment for every orthodontic condition and are significantly more expensive than standard braces. They also generally require a bit more time for the wearer to adjust to them, and they may slightly prolong treatment. However, if you are a candidate and want the least visible type of fixed appliance, lingual braces may be the best choice offered by your Lansing dentist.