Braces: The Many Different Types

Braces used to be very simple and straightforward: They were made of metal, tied together with a wire and got tightened over time en route to straightening your teeth. Nowadays, they are anything but simple.

Braces in the 21st century are as complex and diverse compared to those in the past. With advances in orthodontics and other dental technology, there are more approaches to straightening your smile effectively and permanently than ever before.

It used to be that having braces was as embarrassing as it was uncomfortable. As if it wasn't bad enough to have a mouth full of metal, live with numerous restrictions on what you can eat and drink and be subjected to taunts of "metal mouth" and other derisive name-calling, the patient had to endure painful tightening every month that left teeth aching for days.

In today's world these standard braces are still available, but unlike before they are just one option in a list of many that make the process more comfortable and less embarrassing than ever before. Not to mention the technology involved in this basic approach has improved over the years to become less tedious than ever before.

Beyond this standard style, there are various approaches to straightening one's teeth that are designed to be less noticeable or unsightly. This includes a variation of a traditional brace that is made of a clear material that works under the same principle as has always been used, but is simply much less noticeable to observers.

Another alternative that falls in line with this approach is a mouth guard-like fitting for the mouth that works to manipulate each tooth over time, but is also clear and does not involve a brace, wire or any material other than clear plastic. A series of these fittings are constructed for the patient and applied to the mouth over time, helping to shape the user's smile into the desired position.

Newer technology known as the self-ligating brace uses brackets similar to those that are traditionally utilized, but that don't need the elastic bands or steel tie-ins common on traditional forms. This helps make them less noticeable and also cuts down on the friction involved in the wire moving through the bracket, making them more comfortable and oftentimes more effective.

Orthodontia isn't just limited to correcting the smile either. Other, related appliances are available to help correct overbites and manipulate the position of teeth in relation to the jaw to help improve both functionality and personal appearance.

Certain types of braces are not right for every individual or given situation, so it is always best to consult with an orthodontist or other dental professional prior to deciding on a course of action. He or she can help plan out the most effective approach to achieve exactly what you have in mind.