Read This Before Your Kid Gets Braces

Q: How can I decide which orthodontic treatment is best for my child?

A: Orthodontic braces are used to straighten teeth, close spaces, and help align the bite, which will result in a more esthetic smile and can help improve the function of your bite.  The available types of braces all rely on a metal arch wire that applies light pressure in order to move the teeth into their correct position.  Traditional metal braces are made from stainless steel, giving them the “metallic” and more obvious appearance that most people associate with having braces.  Metal braces were once the only option orthodontic patients had if they wanted to straighten their teeth.

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Clear braces were created with esthetics in mind to provide an option for patients who wanted to fix their teeth but preferred a less obvious alternative to metal braces.  Clear braces are the same size and shape as traditional metal braces and they work the same way.  The main difference is that clear braces are made from non-metal materials like ceramic and plastic.  Using a clear material helps hide the fact that you’re wearing braces by blending in with your teeth.

Clear braces should not be confused with Invisalign®, which is another alternative esthetic option available to orthodontic patients.  Invisalign® consists of a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move the teeth into their final corrected position.  The main difference between braces and Invisalign® is that wires are not used to straighten the teeth and the aligners are removable.

There are a number of factors that must be considered when deciding which type of treatment you should choose, including the severity of your orthodontic issues, the cost, and your personal preference.