Braces And Retainers

Braces and retainers are a fact of life for many kids, almost like a rite of passage. However, adults can get them too. Typically, it is your dentist that will make the first diagnosis that you need braces. From there, he will refer you to an orthodontist whose sole practice is the straightening of teeth through various types of braces and retainers. Orthodontists install teen braces as well as adult braces and retainers.

For many people, when you think of braces, you think of the “tin grin” or “metal mouth.” Well, braces have come a long way in recent years. While many dental braces are still made of metal, there are also ceramic braces, clear braces or invisalign braces. Here is a breakdown of the orthodontic braces and retainers that are available:

1. Ceramic braces blend in more with the color of your teeth. In fact, some ceramics are almost like invisible braces. They are barely detectable. The reason that they are not chosen as often is because they are not as sturdy as the metal braces.
2. Metal braces while more noticeable, are the most outstanding, sturdy choice. The metal ones can withstand more abuse and there is less likelihood of repairs to brackets and wires. Teens with these braces can jazz them up with colored bands and even colored wax.
3. Clear braces are also known as invisalign braces. These are actually removable braces for teeth that virtually undetectable when worn. Just like with regular braces for teeth, your speech may be altered just a bit as your mouth becomes accustomed to them. With invisalign, you have to replace them with a new set every few weeks. Slowly, within a year’s time, your teeth should be aligned where they should be. These are perfect for the working, active adult who doesn’t have time for constant orthodontist visits or frequent stares for adult metal mouth.

When getting braces, it is important to know if you have an allergy to nickel, which is a common ingredient in stainless steel. If you have a nickel allergy, you will have to have an alternate form for your braces and retainers. Gold is often the material of choice for the brackets and wires.

Once braces are off, you’re not out of the teeth straightening woods yet. You have to wear orthodontic retainers for at least a year or more in order to maintain those straight teeth. A retainer will keep your teeth in place as they are notorious for moving if left un-maintained. That is why adults take longer with braces. Their teeth have already found their place in life and braces are forcibly relocating them after permanent residence was already established. Younger people need the retainer until they stop growing, at least until their mid-twenties. Who knew that braces and retainers were such a big deal?