4 Less Noticeable Orthodontic Options for Teens
If your teen needs braces, he or she may be reluctant to succumb to a mouth full of metal. However, some types of braces are less noticeable than traditional braces and may offer your teen a way to preserve his or self esteem, even during the treatment process.
Your dentist may offer several different tooth alignment options. However, since the proper aligning of your teenager's teeth can take over a year, it is best to choose an option with which he or she is comfortable. Here are a few orthodontic options that are less noticeable than traditional metal braces.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces have brackets that are the same color as your teen's teeth, so they are less apparent than braces with metal brackets. Since ceramic braces do cost a bit more than metal braces per tooth, you can save money by only having them applied to front teeth that are visible when your teen smiles or speaks.
Invisalign
Invisalign is an alignment option that doesn't use brackets at all. Instead, your teen wears transparent aligners to straighten his or her teeth. The aligners are plastic trays that fit over the teeth to help move them into proper position.
To aid the progression of the alignment, each aligner is replaced with a new one after around two weeks of wear. Invisalign can be removed daily so your teen can clean his or her teeth. However, the aligners should be worn at least 20 to 22 hours per day.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are made of metal. However, they are worn on the inner side of the teeth, next to the tongue. Thus, they are hidden from sight when your teen speaks or even eats. The braces straighten in the same manner as traditional braces, however they are much less conspicuous.
Damon Braces
Damon metal braces are visible, but they are smaller than conventional metal braces. In addition, there are other advantages to Damon system braces. On average, Damon braces require about six months less treatment time than traditional metal braces. Another benefit of the Damon system braces is the reduction in force needed to align your teen's teeth. This reduction lessens the discomfort your teen experiences during the teeth-straightening process.
If your teen needs braces, there may be several available alignment options that are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Schedule an appointment with a dentist or orthodontist like Family Dental Center TriCities, PC to select an option that both you and your teen will feel good about.
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