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Braces — these are orthodontic devices that are used to correct crooked teeth and malocclusion. Today, traditional metal braces remain the most popular.
In the past, the locks used were larger, but in recent years their size has decreased somewhat. This made treatment with braces more convenient and attractive. However, some people prefer white designs because they are less noticeable. If during orthodontic correction you do not want to compromise with your appearance, aesthetic braces are your concept.
Criterias of choice
All types of braces perform the same basic function — they straighten the teeth. Locks are attached to the outer surface of the teeth and tightened for gradual movement to the desired position. However, their similarity ends there.
Braces, which are classified as aesthetic, are made of white material: ceramic or sapphire.
Orthodontic arches can also be white due to the coating of metal with Teflon, but it is not recommended to wear them all the time. Teflon coating slows down the process of teeth straightening, so dentists recommend using white arcs only in special cases.
Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of the most popular materials for aesthetic braces.
Ceramics
To ensure a margin of safety, ceramic locks are made more massive than their metal counterparts.
On the other hand, ceramics are less traumatic for the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. The choice criterion for many patients is the ability to choose braces to match the color of their own teeth.
The properties of ceramics to imitate the shade and transparency of natural tooth enamel have long been used in dentistry. In particular, ceramic veneers and crowns are the most aesthetic restorations in prosthetics.
As for orthodontics, the best ratio of functionality and aesthetics has non-ligature ceramic braces, in which the orthodontic arch is connected to the locks without the help of auxiliary elements (rubber bands or wires). The absence of ligatures has other advantages, in particular, the number of scheduled orthodontist examinations for their replacement is reduced.
Sapphire
These artificial crystals have increased strength and transparency, which makes them an ideal material for braces. Before orthodontics paid attention to sapphire structures, they had long been used in industry. Sapphire is used in the screens of equipment that must withstand high pressure or heat. It is also the main element of many protective glasses.
Sapphire crystals are a completely biocompatible and hypoallergenic material. They practically do not scratch and are not stained with food dyes, which makes them an ideal choice for patients who value their appearance.
Sapphire braces have only one minus. If natural teeth are not snow-white, they may appear more yellow against the background of sparkling sapphires.
Other differences of aesthetic braces include:
Price
Traditional braces are a more budget option. The increased cost of aesthetic designs is associated with the use of innovative materials and technologies.
Periods of correction.
Classical metal equipment performs its work somewhat faster than aesthetic systems. However, in the case of insignificant curved type of braces does not play a big role.
Thus, aesthetics in orthodontics, as in other areas of dentistry, is more expensive. In return, you get the opportunity to feel as comfortable as possible while wearing braces.
