A luxurious snow-white smile is a permanent trend of our time. However, not everyone is lucky enough to have naturally straight and healthy teeth. Ashamed of their smile, many people endure awkwardness for years, get used to expressing emotions sparingly and live in isolation. But in vain! Modern brace systems allow you to perfectly and discreetly straighten your teeth, and some models of braces can even become a real decoration for your smile during the treatment period.
If you are no longer ready to put up with crooked teeth and decide to act, an experienced orthodontist will assess the severity of the defects and propose an optimal correction plan. An important factor when choosing a bracket system is the aesthetic appearance of the finished structure and its cost. Knowing the features and nuances of various braces, you will make the right choice and get the desired result.
Which bracket system to choose and what results to expect – read our article.
What are braces and how do they work?
Orthodontic braces, also known as braces, are permanent structures designed to correct the bite and eliminate defects in the dentition. Their effect is based on the force of resistance, when special bracket system plates are fixed with locks on the outer or inner surface of the teeth, and the metal arch connecting them steadily returns to the specified position, slowly but surely aligning the teeth in a row.
The effect of any braces on the teeth is a small but constant pressure, and during the therapy the orthodontist will loosen or tighten them more, will use arches of different shapes and thicknesses - this will allow you to change the degree of pressure and ultimately achieve the correct position of the teeth. Under the influence of braces, not only the teeth, but also the surrounding bone tissue experiences pressure; braces trigger the process of its remodeling. This happens very slowly, which is why in some cases braces must be worn for up to three years to achieve optimal results.
All bracket systems are classified as follows:
- by material of manufacture: polymer, metal, plastic, combined or sapphire;
- according to the method of connecting the plates to the arc: ligature (classical) and non-ligature (self-regulating);
- according to the place of attachment: vestibular (external), lingual (internal).
What to do if your braces come off?
Contact your orthodontist immediately and let him know. The bracket should be fixed for 1-3 days . Since the tooth, not attached to the arch, begins to return to its original position, which leads to the need to switch to previous arches: months of treatment are wasted. Moreover, this process is most critical in the middle and at the end of treatment, since during these periods thick and hard arches are used and even a slight displacement of the tooth can make it impossible to install the arch into the bracket groove. It should be noted that only those teeth that actively moved during orthodontic treatment have such a tendency, so it is important to inform the orthodontist from which tooth the bracket came off.
When removing the bracket, be careful not to swallow it! This does not pose a serious threat to health, but there is a small chance of injury to the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. The main problem is different: you will have to pay the cost of a new brace and, possibly, wait for the clinic to purchase it (the clinic does not always have a stock of all braces in its warehouse), which can increase the duration of your treatment. Most often, if the bracket comes off, it remains securely fixed on the arch, but at the same time is movable (see photo above). In this case, you do not need to do anything before visiting the orthodontist. But, if the braces come off from the last teeth, then they almost immediately fly off the arch and, in this case, it is important to notice the unsticking in time (often it happens while eating) and remove the bracket from the mouth, pack it and take it with you to the appointment to the orthodontist.
Vestibular and lingual – which is better?
First, let's compare braces according to where they are attached to the teeth. Each orthodontic design has its own indications, advantages and disadvantages. And despite the fact that any braces are created to solve the main problem - correcting the bite, it is worth carefully considering the options in order to choose the best one.
Vestibular braces - a familiar classic
Vestibular braces are fixed on the front surface of the teeth and are considered the most popular in modern orthodontics. Such designs do not lead to impaired diction and are easy to maintain. The duration of therapy using the vestibular system depends on the severity of the defects. Since the external brace system is very noticeable on the teeth, the choice of materials for its manufacture must be approached very responsibly:
- metal is a reliable and at the same time very noticeable material on the teeth; many patients note its unaesthetic appearance;
- plastic is a more fragile but aesthetic material, the color of which can be selected in accordance with the natural color of the enamel, has a low cost and is often used in the manufacture of budget braces for the correction of minor defects in children and adults;
- ceramics are a more expensive alternative to plastic; ceramic structures are aesthetically pleasing and hypoallergenic;
- sapphire is the most durable, aesthetic and expensive material; sapphire braces are transparent and almost invisible on the teeth.
Some patients say the main disadvantage of vestibular braces is the inability to completely close the mouth after installation. It is worth noting that such an effect is indeed possible in case of serious bite pathologies or if the system itself is selected incorrectly.
Lingual braces are the second most popular
At one time, lingual braces replaced vestibular braces; they are fixed on the inner surface of the teeth; for their installation, a special base is made that replicates the anatomical structure of the patient’s teeth. Lingual systems are more expensive than classic ones and more difficult to manufacture, but it was their appearance that eliminated the main problem of conventional vestibular systems, because unlike them, lingual braces became almost invisible.
In recent years, some types of braces, including lingual ones, have seriously improved - they have become thinner
,
light
and hypoallergenic.
3 main advantages of lingual systems:
- They are not noticeable. And this is really a big plus of lingual structures, because in order to notice them, a person must either look closely at your jaw, or simply know that the braces are installed from the inside and specifically pay attention to this.
- When creating lingual braces, 3D modeling technology is used. This means that the predicted result of therapy can be seen even before it begins.
- Throughout the entire treatment period, the orthodontist, together with the patient, can make adjustments to the design. Classic braces do not offer this possibility.
5 main disadvantages of lingual braces:
- Therapy with lingual braces is quite painful, even compared to classic ones.
- When correcting an overbite with lingual braces, diction is seriously affected. Since the system is fixed from the inside, from the side of the tongue, it becomes very difficult to pronounce familiar words. The so-called logoneurosis may even develop, when the patient loses patience and becomes very nervous due to the fact that the usual sound pronunciation becomes inaccessible to him.
- Parts of lingual braces can injure the tongue, especially at the initial stage of treatment.
- Therapy using internal braces lasts longer than with vestibular braces.
- There are restrictions for adult patients in certain types of intimacy. As we mentioned above, lingual braces can injure the patient’s tongue, but this warning also applies to his sexual partner - any sensitive mucous membrane is at risk. Doctors do not always warn about this disadvantage of lingual braces, but this does not eliminate the problem itself.
As you can see, despite a number of advantages and high cost, lingual braces are not indicated for all patients and have a number of features. Wear invisible braces, but put up with the inconvenience or choose a vestibular system - it’s up to you.
Comparison of types of bracket systems
At the Propricus clinic, orthodontists select braces according to the patient’s requirements for comfort, aesthetics, and the cost of corrective treatment. In some clinical cases, if there are indications, the doctor combines several systems. A ceramic structure can be installed on the upper jaw, and a metal structure on the lower jaw. Each type of orthodontic appliance has its pros and cons. Which brace system is better is a joint decision between the orthodontist and the patient.
Metal.
They are used in dentistry more often than others. The structures are very durable, practical, easy to care for, and have a reasonable price. Braces are made of medical steel, titanium, stainless steel, and other alloys. They are hypoallergenic, do not absorb odor, do not change color, and are easy to clean. They have a smooth surface that holds teeth well and quickly straightens them. The only downside is the unaesthetic design. They are perfect for those for whom comfort and convenience are important, and not the aesthetics and beauty of a smile. They can be placed at any age.
Ceramic.
The color of the orthodontic mechanism material can be matched to the shade of the enamel of the real tooth. It is difficult to notice them on the teeth. The surface of ceramic locks and arches is matte and smooth. Therefore, the smile looks neat and natural. During correction, you should avoid coloring products. Ceramics may change color. These braces are more comfortable and do not cause allergies. Disadvantages: high price, low resistance to mechanical stress. They are almost as good as metal, but can crack due to impact.
Sapphire.
The installation of such structures has virtually no effect on the appearance. They are invisible, do not cause reactions, are durable, and comfortable to wear. They are created from synthetic sapphires. Another advantage of this model is its resistance to food coloring. Unlike ceramics, sapphire movements remain transparent throughout the entire treatment period. The design of the braces is very durable and resistant to damage. Are you looking for a correction method that no one will notice? Choose sapphire devices. Their only drawback is the high price.
Lingual (invisible).
First, impressions are made of the patient to create such a system. Their main advantage is that they are invisible. Because the clasps are attached to the inside of the tooth. They are chosen by people for whom appearance is very important. Installation of such systems takes longer; diction problems are possible during the first 14 days. For the hygiene of braces and mouth, you will have to select special products. Another disadvantage is that you will have to wear them longer than the basic version. This is one of the most expensive options.
Unligated.
The appearance of the structure is neat and compact. It contains much fewer locks than a conventional system. Therefore, the effect on the teeth is softer and more gentle. They do not have a gasket between the wings and the arc. Locking technology ensures a secure fit. It's easier to get used to them. After installing a self-ligating system, you will have to visit the orthodontist much less frequently. Because there is no need to change ligatures. They also do not injure the mucous membrane. At the Propricus clinic you can install turnkey self-ligating braces. Such systems cope even with complex malocclusions. The doctors at the clinic know everything about how to choose braces, how long they need to be worn, and how to care for them.
Ligature and non-ligature - what's the difference?
Do you remember that the main elements of the design of braces are plates (overlays on the teeth with locks) and an arch? Let us now compare braces according to the method of connecting the plates to the arch - they are ligature and non-ligature.
Ligature
It is ligature braces that are considered classic in orthodontics; their use is an old and proven method of occlusion correction. Due to their high efficiency, ligature systems are still relevant today. With the help of ligatures, you can correct the most complex pathologies, including mesial, distal, open or deep bites.
Ligatures are small wires with which a power arc is fixed to each clasp on the surface of the tooth. Typically, ligatures are used at the initial stage of therapy, and later, after slightly weakening the structure, they are replaced with special rubber bands. \
Advantages of ligature braces:
- effective correction of any malocclusion;
- the ability to use colored rubber pads and create stylish individual brace systems;
- low cost.
Flaws:
- massive structure;
- risk of damage to the oral mucosa;
- long period of patient adaptation to the design;
- long period of treatment;
- The ligature makes the braces very noticeable.
Unligated
In the course of work to improve orthodontic treatment methods, non-ligature (self-regulating) braces were developed - modern designs that are distinguished by fixing the arch to the clasps. Thanks to a special fixation system, the load on the metal arch is reduced and the teeth move with less force. The advantages of such a system allow patients to endure the entire period of therapy much more comfortably.
Ligature-free systems have a number of advantages:
- a fairly simple process of installation and subsequent correction;
- shortened therapy period;
- gentle effect on the dental system;
- fast adaptation;
- minimal risk of complications;
- basic hygiene care;
- Periodontal diseases are not a contraindication for the installation of such a system;
- smaller size compared to ligatures;
- the designs are aesthetic and almost invisible on the teeth.
And some disadvantages:
- they are not used to correct complex malocclusions;
- have a high cost.
Which systems are better - with or without a ligature?
There is no clear answer to this question. From an aesthetic point of view, the best ones are those without ligature. For example, the H4 self-adjusting bracket system (OC Orthodontics) is considered one of the most aesthetic, and due to its variability and low profile, also the most effective.
It is important to understand that the main task of any brace system is to straighten the dentition and correct the bite, therefore, to correct uncomplicated anomalies, a system without a ligature is suitable, but to eliminate serious defects you will have to choose a traditional ligature design.
Only a competent orthodontist can choose the ideal braces for a patient, taking into account his individual dental characteristics, age and lifestyle.
What material for braces should I choose?
Modern braces systems can be not just functional, they can be aesthetic, stylish, bright or transparent. This is possible thanks to the use of materials with different properties: plastic, ceramics, sapphire, simple or precious metal
. The properties of the listed materials are different; the choice of a specific one depends on the age of the patient, his preferences regarding aesthetics and structural strength, as well as financial possibilities.
| ceramics | metal | sapphire |
If you need a quick and inexpensive correction, you can opt for a metal structure; if long-term correction is expected, and the patient’s lifestyle requires publicity, it is worth considering ceramic or sapphire braces.
Are your braces rubbing? Orthodontic wax will help.
If any element of the braces system rubs on you, seal it with orthodontic wax . Usually it is given by the orthodontist after fixing the braces. In addition, you can use regular dental wax in red strips; it is not so flexible, so it must be preheated in hot water. From wax of any type, after heating it, you need to make a ball the size of a match head to a pea and attach it to the dried surface of a bracket, hook or other element of the bracket system.
Method of applying wax to brackets.
How long does it take to install braces?
The process of manufacturing and installing braces usually takes about a week and includes the following steps:
- drawing up a treatment plan: for a more accurate assessment of the patient’s dental system, the doctor does a computed tomography scan, prepares impressions of the jaw and, together with the patient, selects the optimal type of brace system.
- Complete sanitation of the oral cavity: at the initial stage it is necessary to remove carious lesions and eliminate inflammation. If the doctor understands that some teeth will interfere with the necessary displacement of the dentition, they are removed.
- Manufacturing of braces: at this stage, laboratory specialists select template designs or manufacture individual bracket systems.
- Installation: braces are fixed on the surface of the teeth using a special fluoride-containing glue and adjusted to all parameters.
Of course, it will take a week to get used to braces. After installation, the doctor will tell you in detail how to properly care for them, what food you will have to give up during the treatment period, so that the tooth enamel under the braces does not break down and lose its natural color.
If you decide to install classic ligature braces, be prepared to visit the orthodontist approximately once a month, during these visits the doctor will manually change the position of the metal arch.
Menu during orthodontic treatment
After reading the list of restrictions above, you are no doubt wondering, “So what can braces bearers eat?” In fact, the list of dishes is very large, you just need to show a little imagination and follow the recommendations above. I will list only a small part of the recommended dishes so that you can get new ideas for culinary experiments during orthodontic treatment.
- Pasta, spaghetti, ravioli and so on . With cheese, various sauces and other additives there is a huge scope for creativity.
- Mashed potatoes or soft baked potatoes
- Many rice dishes with vegetables or seafood
- Various types of cutlets and dishes using minced meat
- Dumplings and dumplings
- All types of cereals
- Pies and similar baked goods (without a hard crust) with almost any variety of fillings, except nut
- Various seafood dishes (not hard)
- Various types of cheeses
- Dishes made from jelly or creams
- Smoothies and milkshakes
- Yogurts and cottage cheese with various additives
- Bananas, grapes, melons, watermelons, kiwis, strawberries and other soft fruits and berries
The above dishes are especially suitable for the beginning of treatment (especially in the first couple of weeks after bonding), when the teeth may become sore when biting on them. In the future, you can add more solid products from the second list (necessarily, cutting into small pieces). So, the menu of brace bearers cannot be called a diet. In fact, this is a complete diet, with some features and restrictions on the hardness and texture of food.
At what age can you get braces?
Modern orthodontics allows you to solve the problem of crooked teeth and correct your bite at almost any age. It is most advisable to do this in young years, even before the final ossification of the jaws; the optimal time to begin bite correction in children is from 8 to 14 years. However, there are situations when correction is necessary for the patient in adulthood. Adults often seek correction of a bite that has been altered by the growth of wisdom teeth and subsequent displacement of adjacent teeth. Often the need for bite correction occurs after the removal of unhealthy teeth. The use of braces in such cases is the best way to eliminate defects.
They say wearing braces is painful...
Indeed, braces therapy very often causes discomfort, and reviews from patients who have gone through this procedure indicate that there is little pleasant about it. This occurs due to the pressure of braces on the teeth. If the patient has a low pain threshold, the orthodontist will not tighten the system too tightly and will prescribe painkillers for the first time. If, a week after installing braces, the pain intensifies and the temperature rises, you should immediately consult a doctor to find out the reasons.
In the first weeks after braces are installed, the patient may experience significant discomfort and pain throughout the jaw. This reaction is due to the gradual movement of the teeth into the desired position and is considered normal - you will have to be patient.
Immediately after installing braces, parts of the system itself can injure the mucous membrane and tongue; this problem can be solved by using special wax as prescribed by a doctor. Gradually you will get used to it and stop feeling discomfort, and after a while you will get beautiful, straight teeth and the much-desired snow-white smile!
Treatment of damage to the oral mucosa.
During orthodontic treatment, the lips and mucous membranes of the cheeks and gums inevitably suffer. Sores are formed due to friction between braces, especially their hooks, and soft tissue in the mouth. This problem is especially acute at the beginning of treatment.
- Solcoseryl dental gel (sold in pharmacies) - it noticeably speeds up the healing of mucous membranes, and you can also lubricate the corners of your lips with it, especially after taking it. In addition, lips can be lubricated with Solcoseryl ointment.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water.
Salt water reduces pain and speeds up healing of wounds. Mix a tablespoon of regular table salt in a glass of warm water. Place the resulting solution in your mouth and hold for about a minute. Repeat this procedure several times a day, especially in the first days after fixation and at times when the pain intensifies. - Diluted hydrogen is an antiseptic, so it can reduce inflammation in the oral cavity and speed up the healing of the mucosal epithelium. Mix water with three percent peroxide 1 to 1. Place the solution in your mouth and hold it there for a minute. Repeat several times a day.
