Are you thinking about bracket braces for a loved one or yourself?
Today’s parents most likely grew up with bracket braces, also known as metal braces.
Metal braces use a set of metal brackets, with one bracket attached to each tooth. A wire is threaded through the brackets and held in place by them. During treatment, the patient occasionally visits their orthodontist for adjustments. The amount of tension on the wire needs to be tweaked as the treatment progresses.
That small amount of tension is actually what causes teeth to move to the “treated position.”
That’s why, if you miss follow-up appointments while you have braces, it doesn’t mean there’ll be any damage to your teeth or gums – but it does mean treatment will take longer since it progresses as those adjustments are made. Brackets are the key to that entire process!
Today’s Bracket Braces Are Better Than They Used to Be
Metal braces remain the most common orthodontic treatment because they work well and help solve the majority of orthodontic problems. In fact, some tooth gaps and misalignment are so severe, that only metal braces will work.
If you grew up with old-fashioned braces, you might wonder whether these newer ones are:
- Clunky
- Unattractive
- Uncomfortable
- Hard to care for
Luckily, things have changed a lot over the last decade. Today’s “bracket braces” are just as effective as they’ve always been, but they have some major advantages over previous generations:
1. Today’s Bracket Braces Are Smaller
If you come to a Board-certified family orthodontist like Dr. Beauchamp, you’ll have the chance to enjoy bracket braces that are much smaller than their older counterparts. Although they work the same way, the low-profile braces are harder for others to spot and may look better in the mirror, too.
2. Today’s Bracket Braces Use Less Material
Because they are smaller, today’s bracket braces use less material, which makes it a lot easier to care for them. You can clean them more easily and even make certain repairs at home. If you have any trouble with braces, a quick call to your Port Orange orthodontist is all you need to get answers!
3. Not All Bracket Braces Are Metallic
Bracketed braces are still the most common form of braces in the world, but there’s good news: They come in more forms than ever before. You can get bracket braces that use clear plastic material, making them far more discreet. This can be a terrific option for adults.
4. Bracket Braces Aren’t the Only Option for Most Patients
Adults, many teens, and some responsible kids can qualify for clear plastic aligners instead of bracket braces. A set of aligners is practically impossible for others to see, even if they are having a conversation with you. Using aligners works well for many orthodontic issues, but not all of them. Dr. Beauchamp can clarify for you!
5. Sometimes, Kids Might Actually Prefer Bracket Braces
Dr. Beauchamp and her team go the extra mile to make sure Beauchamp Orthodontics is as kid-friendly as can be. One way we do that is by having plenty of colored band options for bracket braces. Bands in your child’s favorite color may be just the thing to help them get excited about their new braces!
Are There Any Drawbacks to Modern Bracket Braces?
Bracket braces are a whole lot nicer than they used to be.
That said, it’s still important to take care of them.
While you have braces, you’ll need to brush and floss regularly. You might also want to use mouthwash with fluoride to protect against cavities. It’s crucial to make sure that small pieces of food don’t get stuck in your brackets, where they can quickly contribute to plaque build-up and cavities.
If you have good dental health habits already, there’s really nothing to worry about with bracket braces! Yes, some foods are off-limits with braces, but they are easy to avoid. For instance, crunchy foods like apples and sticky foods like caramel can both cause damage to metal braces’ brackets.
For most kids with braces, Halloween is the biggest challenge they’ll run into. Of course, there are still lots of candies for the whole family to enjoy that won’t ever bother your braces. With responsible choices, you’ll benefit from braces and end up with a healthier, more beautiful smile!
Beauchamp Orthodontics Is Here to Help with All Your Braces Needs
Bracket braces are better than ever, and Beauchamp Orthodontics is here to make the whole process a snap. We can’t wait to welcome you and your family. Schedule your consultation online to get started with family orthodontics in Port Orange!
