While clear aligners have gotten popular in recent years, don’t count out metal braces just yet. You may well benefit more from getting brackets and wires for your teeth instead of trays. In fact, those seeking orthodontics should ask themselves a key question: When are braces the best option? Your Copperas Cove practice will even help by providing some suitable answers. To that end, here are four times when metal braces are a better choice for you than clear aligners.
You Prefer Something Hands-Off
While patients always need to take care with orthodontics, maybe you prefer the most “hands-off” choice possible. You’d do well to consider metal braces if so.
Clear aligners are pretty convenient, but they can be a lot to keep track of. They’re only effective when you wear them 20 hours a day, remember to “re-insert” them after meals and cleaning, etc. In contrast, metal braces are permanently (but also temporarily) bonded to your teeth for treatment. They’ll stay on your smile no matter what, meaning you don’t have to constantly monitor their presence.
You Need High Durability
When your orthodontic device needs high durability, clear aligners are out. You should instead make metal braces your top choice.
Aligner trays aren’t overly fragile, but their main material is clear plastic. They can thus be bent, broken, damaged from sun exposure, and so on. On the other hand, you’d have to do a lot more to put metal braces in harm’s way; they can resist force more easily and aren’t as likely to break apart. The latter option is thus ideal for patients who develop bruxism or dental injuries.
You Have Complex Issues
Though aligner trays can fix many issues, the complex kind aren’t among them. It’s a good idea to get metal braces when you have an “advanced” orthodontic problem.
The truth is that clear aligners work best for “minor” dental misalignments. Despite their best efforts, they normally can’t fix severe orthodontic conditions. Metal braces don’t deal with this restriction, though; they can correct the most distorted and crooked smiles. It follows that you should try them when your grin needs complex realignment.
You Want Budget-Friendly Care
If your orthodontic budget is a bit tight, go with metal braces. They won’t put as much strain on your finances.
Remember, most clear aligner treatments prove expensive. An average one costs at least a few thousand dollars, and it’s unlikely to be covered by dental insurance. Today’s metal braces, meanwhile, run a bit cheaper and often enjoy coverage from dental plans. Should you get them, your money situation will likely look better in comparison.
Braces really are the best option in many situations. Given that fact, talk to your dentist about whether they’d especially suit you!
About the Practice
Benchmark Family Dental & Orthodontics is based in Copperas Cove, TX. Led by Drs. Celebi, Ahmed, Sharma, and Rahman, our practice never shrinks back from helping smiles in need. We instead offer the most comprehensive dentistry possible, with an emphasis on preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments. Our team also provides orthodontic options like metal braces and Invisalign. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (254)-547-4866.