Different types of braces and aligners – Options for young patients

Orthodontic treatment has evolved significantly, offering children and teenagers more options. These advancements provide solutions that balance effectiveness, comfort, aesthetics, and lifestyle considerations. Smile Buds Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offers comprehensive evaluation to determine which orthodontic option best suits each young patient’s needs.

Traditional metal braces and modern variants

In children and adolescents, metal braces are the most popular orthodontic treatment.

Standard metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by archwires that gradually guide teeth into proper alignment. Today’s versions are smaller and more comfortable than earlier generations.
Self-ligating brackets have replaced traditional elastic ties with built-in clips that hold the archwire. This innovation reduces friction and potentially shortens treatment time. These systems often require fewer adjustments and can be more comfortable for patients.
Power chains are specialised elastic bands that connect brackets to help close spaces or move groups of teeth. Many children enjoy personalising their braces with colourful elastic ties that can be changed at each adjustment appointment.

Metal braces excel at treating complex orthodontic issues and severe misalignments. They provide orthodontists precise control over tooth movement and can address problems that other systems might struggle with. Treatment ranges from 18 months to 3 years, depending on case complexity, and they generally represent the most economical orthodontic option.

Ceramic and clear braces options

For patients those who are concerned about the visibility of metal braces, ceramic options offer a more aesthetically pleasing alternative:

Ceramic brackets function similarly to metal brackets but are made from tooth-coloured or transparent materials that blend with natural tooth colour. While less noticeable than metal, they are slightly larger and require careful maintenance to prevent staining.
Clear or white-coated archwires can be paired with ceramic brackets for enhanced aesthetics. These specialised wires are less visible than traditional metal wires, though they may have different mechanical properties.
Combination approaches using ceramic brackets on the most visible front teeth and metal brackets on less visible back teeth offer a balance between aesthetics and cost.

Ceramic braces effectively treat most of the same conditions as metal braces but may have slightly longer treatment times for specific tooth movements. They typically cost more than metal braces and may not be ideal for every case, particularly those requiring significant bite correction.

Lingual braces: The Hidden Alternative

Lingual braces offer the most discreet bracket-and-wire system by placing the appliance behind the teeth:

Custom-fabricated brackets are designed for each tooth’s lingual (tongue-side) surface. This customisation allows for precise control despite the more challenging position.
Specialized techniques are required for installation and adjustment, making these appliances more technique-sensitive than front-facing braces.
The adaptation period is typically more extended than with traditional braces. Patients may experience more speech disruption and tongue irritation initially, though these symptoms generally subside as patients adapt.

The specialised skills required for lingual orthodontics and the customised nature of the brackets make this option more expensive than standard braces.

Clear aligners for younger patients

Transparent aligner systems have revolutionised orthodontics by offering a removable alternative to traditional braces:

Custom-made, clear trays gradually align teeth when worn for 20-22 hours daily. These nearly invisible aligners are changed approximately every 1-2 weeks as teeth move.
Compliance indicators help parents monitor wear time, which is crucial for successful treatment. Some systems feature coloured dots that fade with proper wear time.
Eruption compensation features accommodate growing jaws and erupting teeth, expanding their applicability to adolescent patients. Unique “windows” in aligners allow permanent teeth to emerge during treatment.
Hybrid approaches combining limited braces with aligners may benefit some patients, addressing specific movements that aligners alone might struggle with.

Advantages include improved aesthetics, easier oral hygiene, no dietary restrictions, and fewer emergency visits for broken appliances. However, treatment success depends heavily on patient compliance with wearing schedules. Parents should discuss all available options with an orthodontic professional.

Name: Smile Buds Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Address: 3342 Verdugo Rd suite b, Los Angeles, CA 90065

Website: https://www.smilebuds.com/

Phone: (323) 825-8558