Everyone has a mental picture of someone wearing braces. Typically thought of as a person with a mouth filled with metal brackets and wiring between the teeth, that stereotype has changed dramatically in recent years with continued advances in materials and technologies. Today, it’s even possible in some cases for teeth alignment to be done without any lasting fixtures!
Traditionally, braces are thought of as the metal and ceramic brackets that are places on teeth and connected with wires that are tightened periodically to draw the teeth to new positions over time. Many years ago, bands were also used that wrapped around each individual tooth, which also created the more traditional “metal mouth” look. There are also lingual brackets, which draw teeth together like traditional brackets, but are placed on the back of teeth instead to offer a more discreet method of tightening a person’s smile.
In addition, mini-braces are a newer and smaller option – as the name implies – that may be a viable option for some individuals. These work the same way as brackets, but use a smaller form factor. Lastly, one of the newest methods is invisible alignment options, which use a clear and removable mold to correct minor spacing issues.
With new design methods, braces are far less noticeable than they were even a decade ago. Transparent and tooth-colored brackets that are more effective are now available, and wiring has been made to be far less visible than they had traditionally been. In turn, this has helped encourage more people to consider getting their teeth aligned who had opted not to in the past. Plus, new Invisalign alignment options – which are made of clear, removable plastic – can be used in many cases and offers a practically unnoticeable option to tighten any spaces or gaps.
As these improvements have made braces less obtrusive to a person’s smile, patients young and old are looking to improve their smile. Braces can be used at any age, so if you’ve ever thought about doing something to change your look, the time to do it is now. Call Genesee Dental at 585-343-1113 or schedule your next appointment online today to talk to your dentist about your options!