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What are the Different Types of Dental Braces?

Diana Bocco
Diana Bocco

Dental braces, also known as orthodontic brackets, are common among teenagers and even adults. They can be used to adjust crooked teeth, misaligned upper and lower jaw, and uneven bites, including overbites and underbites. While most dentists can provide braces if requested, a specialist, known as an orthodontist, is usually more qualified to decide which braces are the best in a particular situation. There are many types of braces now available, including ones made of metal, ceramic, and gold, as well as those that go inside the teeth or which are nearly invisible.

Metal dental braces are the oldest type. They've been in use for decades and are made of stainless steel. While they are still expensive, they are still considered the cheapest of all options. Metal braces can stain the surface of the teeth, which is why many people shy away from them in the first place.

Dental braces are common among teenagers.
Dental braces are common among teenagers.

Ceramic or clear braces are less visible and look more natural than metal braces, as they blend in with the teeth. They do not stain and are as strong as metal devices, but they also require a longer treatment time and can be a good deal more expensive.

Gold dental braces are the same as traditional metal braces, but they are made of gold-plated steel. There are no advantages to using gold over steel, except from the cosmetic appeal.

Invisalign braces may be used to treat minor teeth alignment problems.
Invisalign braces may be used to treat minor teeth alignment problems.

Lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth. They are the preferred option for people who want their braces to be truly invisible. The biggest drawback is that they can be uncomfortable and result in cuts and sores on the tongue. Speaking can be difficult at first, too.

Invisalign® braces can be a good option for those with relatively minor alignment problems. They are practically invisible, and can be removed for eating and brushing the teeth. These braces are computer-designed and must be changed every two weeks, since they are made of clear plastic and cannot be adjusted. On the downside, they tend to be rather expensive and not every dentist is trained to use them. In fact, orthodontists must be trained by Align Technologies, the company that manufactures them, before they are allowed to use them on patients.

Discussion Comments

staceybeck01

I think I'm too old to get braces, but I guess now is better than never.

anon328482

As we know that there are many types of braces, so all have different costs. I think the average cost is between $4,000 and $5,000.

anon149070

i had my braces installed around four months ago for $720. The treatment is going quite well and in all probability, they will be off in another few months. Just so that you'll know, I've got metallic ones.

anon119160

I'm getting ceramic ones in two months. I love the NHS free dentistry.

ranjitba

I have a ceramic tooth crowned in the upper front. and i want to go for braces especially the removable ones. please make some suggestions.

anon103066

my sis paid about 6000 USD for the ceramic braces.

athenacsr

My dental provider in Bethpage New York provides competitive prices for braces.

anon94274

My SmartClip self ligating braces are $4,200 US.

anon85867

The most common type of dental braces are traditional, metal, ceramic and lingual.

anon85498

Top and bottom were $5,900 Canadian.

anon54173

average cost of braces: $5,200.

anon7254

What is the average cost of ceramic braces?

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    • Dental braces are common among teenagers.
      By: Mat Hayward
      Dental braces are common among teenagers.
    • Invisalign braces may be used to treat minor teeth alignment problems.
      By: Christoph Hähnel
      Invisalign braces may be used to treat minor teeth alignment problems.
    • Stainless steel braces are the least expensive.
      By: draw05
      Stainless steel braces are the least expensive.
    • Invisalign braces can be removed for brushing the teeth.
      By: michaeljung
      Invisalign braces can be removed for brushing the teeth.