Braces With Your Orthodontist In Johannesburg
Wondering what types of braces are best? As there are many different kinds of orthodontic appliances out there to help correct smiles, our dental team at Choonara Orthodontics in Johannesburg can help you find the best set of braces for your unique personality, lifestyle, and age. From traditional metal braces and ceramic braces to Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, Dr. Sahide Choonara and our dental team have put together a detailed list of the various types of braces that can give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of; helping you make a more informed decision on what braces are best for you!
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces - made from high-grade stainless steel - are among the most popular types of braces that are very effective and economical. While metal braces used in the past were bulky and uncomfortable, today’s modern metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive. Traditional metal braces are perfect for young children and young teens, as the most common time to straighten teeth is from ages 10-14. With so many young people out there perfecting their smiles around the same age, there are no negative visual connotations associated with wearing metal braces. Regardless, traditional metal braces can be worn by patients of all ages, especially those with severe tooth crowding or bite problems.
Clear Ceramic Braces
Clear braces are made of a translucent ceramic material to make treatment more discreet. These braces are ideal for any patient who doesn’t want their orthodontic treatment period to be so obvious. The only drawbacks to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits. Due to the fragility of ceramic braces, the wearer must be diligent about avoiding foods or drinks that can damage their brackets, as a broken bracket will make their orthodontic treatment plan come to a screeching halt. Ceramic braces are a great option for responsible teens or adults, as they need extra attention and care.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the same as traditional metal braces, except that the brackets and wires are placed on the inside of teeth instead. As a more expensive option than their traditional, front-facing counterparts, lingual braces can sometimes cause difficulties with speech and relative discomfort, along with more frequent adjustments and visits to the office. Lingual braces are an incredibly appealing option for adult and teen patients who are looking for a more discreet treatment, but they do require more dedication and diligence than standard metal braces.
Invisalign & Invisalign Teen In South Africa
While traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and lingual braces are more economical choices, they tend to cause the mouth to look or feel noticeably abnormal. As metal or ceramic brackets cover a large portion of the surface area of your teeth, they allow food particles to get stuck in between the braces, teeth, and gums; sometimes without even noticing! Using a great deal of force to straighten the teeth, these types of braces can easily cause bacteria build-up that leads to demineralization and cavities.
With Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, those problems are non-existent. Choosing Invisalign lets the wearer feel more confident in their braces, as they oftentimes aren’t noticeable at all. Made with 3D printed thermoplastic material, Invisalign braces are virtually invisible and can be removed at any time to eat, drink, brush, or floss. Invisalign clear aligners are ideal for responsible teens or adults who want to keep their orthodontic treatment as discreet as possible but can adhere to wearing their aligners at least 22 hours a day, every day. Additionally, Invisalign is only available to patients who meet certain requirements, as patients with severe dental problems may need the tried and true power of traditional metal braces to help fix their smile.
Contact Choonara Orthodontics Today For Your Unique Set Of Braces!
Depending upon what type of dental problems you have, how discreet you want your orthodontic treatment to look, and your age, Dr. Choonara, and our team can help you find the best types of braces for your unique spirit and lifestyle! To find out more about the types of braces we offer at Choonara Orthodontics in Johannesburg, feel free to get in contact with our office today. With a vast selection of state-of-the-art braces, we guarantee we can help you get started on your journey towards a beautiful smile!