The Pros & Cons of Each Type of Orthodontic Braces

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With the advancement of technology that has been incorporated into developing orthodontic appliances, there is a myriad of orthodontic braces available in the market. People needing corrective alignment for their teeth are no longer limited to just traditional metal braces, but can choose ceramic braces and even virtually invisible clear braces like Invisalign braces in Singapore.

While the options are plenty, you might want to consider knowing the types of braces well before deciding on the kind that you wish to have, should you pursue on a course of orthodontic treatment. We’re here to help you with that.

Below, we list down the pros and cons of the most common and popular types of braces so that you can make an informed decision.

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the predecessor to the more modern variations of braces. They consist of brackets, wires, and bands that work simultaneously to move your teeth into its correct alignment by applying increasing pressure.

Pros

Traditional metal braces are highly dependable and are the most durable braces option. Additionally, they are the cheapest kind, making them an affordable and ideal choice for patients with a limited budget. Their dependability also ensures that the entire treatment process seldom goes wrong. A good orthodontist in Singapore will suggest metal braces if patients want the quickest corrective treatment possible with minimal problems.

Cons

Metal braces are not usually preferred by modern-day patients as they’re bulky and though practical, have little emphasis on aesthetic value. Because of this, patients whose considerations involve an aesthetic aspect seldom choose metal braces, in favour of its more modern and customisable alternatives.

Ceramic Braces

The modern alternative to conventional metal braces, ceramic braces are a popular choice among orthodontic patients for many age groups. Made from ceramic materials instead of metal, it has similar form and function to the metal braces, with a few noticeable exceptions.

Pros

The main appeal of this type of braces is that its brackets are tooth-coloured and camouflage very well, and elastomeric modules can be customised with different colours so that patients can personalise their braces according to their desired aesthetic effect. Using tooth-coloured elastomeric modules allows it to be less noticeable as compared to metal braces because the ceramic brackets are also tooth-coloured. Besides, ceramic braces provide faster results than clear braces in Singapore.

Cons

As ceramic braces are made from ceramic compounds, they’re naturally less durable than metal braces, being susceptible to fracture. Additionally, it requires more extensive care to maintain as the ceramic brackets can stain easily by food or drinks if not cleaned properly. Ceramic braces cost more than metal braces in Singapore, too, so it may not be a feasible choice for patients looking for cheaper braces.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are a type of braces that are placed on the rear of the teeth (tongue side), which is why they’re called ‘lingual’. Similar to conventional braces, lingual braces function by progressively tightening and aligning the position of the teeth until they are corrected.

Pros

Favoured by working professionals, lingual braces cannot be seen at all by natural vision as they are positioned behind the teeth. This attribute is preferable for adults because they want to avoid any sign of wearing braces in a professional work setting. Lingual braces are arguably the best option for aesthetic-conscious patients.

Cons

Lingual braces’ position in the mouth makes them difficult for orthodontists to periodically adjust and tighten. Also, cleaning and maintaining it is harder because of its position. Lingual braces are one of the most expensive braces option and the cost of maintaining it is relatively high compared to the other types too.

Invisalign Clear Aligners

One of the most recognisable and popular types of clear braces in Singapore, Invisalign clear aligners are made from transparent plastic that is unique to every patient’s teeth. These clear aligners have to be worn for 22 hours every day, and patients have to visit their orthodontist periodically to change to a tighter set so that corrective alignment can be done.

Pros

Invisalign braces are virtually invisible because of the transparent material, making them a favourite for patients who prioritise aesthetic appeal. Additionally, they’re removable, so patients can take them off before eating or drinking anything. This allows them to have their diets unchanged while still benefiting from the corrective procedure.

Cons

Invisalign braces cost in Singapore is relatively high. Also, it’s not an option for patients who want a quick treatment duration as Invisalign aligners take the longest time to complete a treatment generally. Patients are required to maintain a high level of discipline and meticulousness when taking care of it, as the clear material may stain easily if not taken out before consuming food, or cleaned frequently.

Also, it’s not suitable for patients with multiple misalignments as Invisalign can only treat minor alignment issues and not complex cases.

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