What types of braces are there and how they work, how do they differ, how to choose the right design for yourself? To understand this issue, you need to structure the options and decide on their advantages/features.
The first factor: when the doctor is used to working with certain braces
...Or he learned to work on ligature braces, then he becomes an adherent of the classic braces system. It happens that an orthodontist began his activity at the department as a resident, where everyone worked with a certain brace system, and he practically grew up on it. It can be difficult for a doctor to give up such preferences. But a professional and experienced orthodontist does not focus on one method of treatment, but knows and uses different techniques.
Types of systems by fixation method
Corrective structures are fixed on the tooth surface in different ways - this is another sign for their conditional classification. Whatever material the braces are made of, they can be ligated or non-ligated. In the first case, the arch is attached to the clasps using elastic rings (ligatures). In the second option, we are talking about self-ligating systems - the arc is inserted into a special groove with a lock.
Ligature braces
The ligature system consists of a metal arch, the actual braces and connecting individual elements. The effectiveness of classical models is based on the ligature - an element of the bracket system, which is a thin metal wire.
These systems have a high degree of functionality, and in some cases, only the use of a ligature system can lead to the elimination of bite defects. If a ligature system has been chosen for treatment, then a mandatory monthly visit to the orthodontist is necessary.
Non-ligature braces
Today, manufacturers of orthodontic systems have developed self-ligating (ligature-free) braces for more comfortable treatment of patients. Due to the absence of ligatures on the locks, which are subject to deformation, visits to the orthodontist are reduced by one and a half to two times.
Externally, the self-ligating design looks neater and more attractive. The size of the locks in these systems is slightly smaller than in conventional classic systems.
In addition to the fact that non-ligature braces allow you to visit the doctor less often and look more attractive, their very effect on the teeth is softer and more gentle in comparison with ligature systems.
Removable appliances (braces)
In practical dentistry, bite correction is often carried out using removable structures. In the treatment of adults, they are not as effective as in children’s occlusion, since the complete formation of the skeletal system has already occurred.
Types of removable structures include trainers, aligners, and mouth guards.
One should not expect a radical solution to the problem of correcting the bite from such systems: they are effective only for minor curvatures or for solving the problem of jaw expansion, when the issue of lack of space for teeth arises.
Second factor: cost
If the choice of braces is determined not by the doctor, but by the clinic, then the clinic can save money. It is much more profitable to buy cheap braces, but how to work with them is a question for the orthodontist. More effective and technologically advanced brace systems are already slightly higher in cost due to the fact that scientific developments, a huge number of studies, and articles have been invested in them. And the bracket becomes a tiny orthodontic mechanism, into which a large technological base is invested. The cost of such a product cannot, in principle, be cheap. An analogy can be drawn with untested dietary supplements and medications that have undergone many certifications. Therefore, at the Confidence aesthetic orthodontics clinic, we work with braces produced by Ormco and 3M Unitek - these are truly first-class and proven products. They carry two categories of advantages - both for the doctor and for the patient.
Advantages for the patient: treatment time is reduced, it can be treated without removal, in cases that previously could not be treated in this way, these braces are small, comfortable, and due to self-ligation, the patient can visit the doctor less often. Pros for the orthodontist: more complex cases can be treated faster, more comfortably, this is an amazing compromise of quality, time and finances. The most ideal compromise.
Plastic braces
These systems are considered a worthy alternative to metal structures, but, unlike the latter, they are characterized by an aesthetic appearance. Plastic braces are more similar to ceramic or sapphire structures than to metal systems.
It is quite simple to choose the color of plastic to match the enamel of the patient’s teeth. Plastic structures compare favorably with others due to their affordable cost, as well as wide possibilities in terms of color choice. The disadvantages include fragility, dietary restrictions (very strict requirements are imposed on the consumption of solid food) and a long correction period.
In addition, these braces often have to be changed, which does not have the best effect on the cost of treatment.
The best brands of plastic braces
Speaking about the rating, it is worth noting such brands as:
- Spirit Alexander. Made of transparent plastic and have a metal groove for the arc. These are the only aesthetic braces that have wings to correct rotations. The rotary wings are made of stainless steel, but when installing the braces system, they are hidden behind the wire arch, which allows you to maintain the aesthetics of the overall appearance of the braces. Spirit Alexander braces have rightfully gained well-deserved popularity among practicing orthodontists around the world. Comparable in aesthetic qualities to ceramic braces, plastic braces have a number of undeniable advantages: ease of installation, safety of removal from the enamel surface, adequate friction force.
- Spirit MB. Spirit MB plastic braces developed by ORMCO combine the excellent aesthetic characteristics and biomechanics of metal braces. Adhesion (sticking) to the enamel surface is achieved through mushroom-shaped undercuts on the base of the bracket, which create mechanical fixation comparable in reliability to metal braces. Spirit MB braces (Spirit) can be installed on any orthodontic adhesive. The use of a metal groove makes it possible to improve the sliding of the arc and more accurately implement the angular and torque characteristics inherent in the braces. It is not recommended for use on the lower jaw in cases of deep bite (braces can be worn out due to occlusal interference).
- Elegance. The amazing bonding characteristics of Elegance SL (Super Lock) provide excellent adhesion to tooth enamel. Features: Fiberglass reinforced composite, High break resistance, Computer generated design, Minimum size with maximum strength, Optimal sliding mechanism, Special metal slot design, One piece single groove and hook design, Maximum strength without cracking, Clear color marking system .
Selection of braces according to the mechanics of orthodontic treatment
There are cases when the patient requests increased requirements for aesthetics and wants lingual braces. We, as orthodontists who know how to work with lingual braces, understand that a particular case is not optimal for treatment with internal braces; it will be more difficult and longer in terms of time, because the mechanics of the lingual technique are different.
The choice in this situation will always remain with the patient, but he will need to accept that in his case, high-quality treatment with lingual technology will affect the treatment period and will be 6-10 months longer, because specifically in his individual case, mechanics with external braces will be faster .
The same situation arises when a patient chooses lingual braces for work involving active speech. The orthodontist is always obliged to warn that the work may suffer at first, because lingual technique greatly affects diction.
It happens that in adolescents with a high level of demineralization, lingual technique is even recommended, because the inner surface of the teeth will not have the same risk of stains and caries after braces are removed.
There are cases when it makes no difference to the orthodontist which bracket system to treat the patient with.
Therefore, the choice of braces depends not only on the patient, but also in some ways on the doctor, what he knows how to do, what he is used to, what the patient’s case is. The best option for both parties is to find a compromise.
The best braces: which systems to choose
Each brace system has its own characteristics and making a clear choice is quite difficult. The patient should first of all listen to the advice of the orthodontist - an experienced specialist will recommend a specific model that is suitable for your case, taking into account the position of the teeth and the condition of the bite. Be sure to take into account your own requirements for the appearance and comfort of the device. The financial component should also play an important role.
When choosing, you should also consider the brand of braces, since products from different companies may have different quality. Don't rely only on reviews from the Internet. This is an important factor, but not decisive.
What are the hidden factors when choosing braces?
At the Confidence clinic, all orthodontists are professional in any technique and work equally well with any type of braces. But if we offer 15 braces options, then it's worse for the patient. The most comfortable thing is to offer roughly 3-4 options, based on key queries and restrictions.
As a rule, the orthodontist understands well the technical nuances of each brace system; for example, on cheap braces, the locks may open or may not hold the arch. For the doctor, the convenience is that the lock still works, opens and closes, even after two years of treatment. Many braces open and close well for the first six months, and then problems begin. The lid is loose or jammed. Treatment simply will not progress in a month. The orthodontist will have to reinstall and close the locks.
High-quality braces mean the reliability of their work, when for the patient the treatment process goes as planned, and not as it turns out depending on the nuances that arise.
For example, Clarity braces are quite decent and pleasant to use. It’s impossible to say that Inspire Ice is better or worse. Both bracket systems have good ligature wings, they also work well and are about the same in cost. A good product, no matter whether it’s braces, food or cosmetics, is never cheap. There are other braces that are just as good, but they won’t cost any less. On the other hand, there are braces that are actually sold “by weight”; they are often used to attract patients to cheap promotions. There is a different steel and deformation after removal, but using such braces, it is difficult for the doctor to solve complex clinical problems, sometimes it is only possible to achieve teeth alignment.
In this sense, there is a fundamental difference between cheap and more expensive braces. And a good orthodontist will naturally take care of the patient’s health and his reputation. The reliability of the design of the Damon braces system has been tested by time; they are truly convenient for both the doctor and the patient.
Sometimes in economy segment clinics you can find outright imposition of certain braces. Why is this happening? Not every such clinic can afford a large supply of braces in stock - this means additional storage space and large frozen amounts. Then the doctor strives not to let the patient go without installing braces from those in stock.
Classification by material of manufacture
When thinking about which braces to choose based on the material of manufacture, you need to know the main advantages and disadvantages of each option:
- 1. Metal . The most durable classic systems that can cope with defects of any complexity and are the cheapest. Among the disadvantages: very noticeable, even if you install a self-ligating system with small locks, they can cause allergic reactions and irritation of the mucous membranes. Common ligature systems: Mini Diamond, non-ligature systems: Damon Q, Damon 3MX.
- 2. Ceramic . Braces are much less noticeable on the teeth and do not cause allergic reactions. The most common Damon systems are highly durable and efficient. The only drawback of such systems is their high cost.
- 3. Sapphire . They are made of artificial transparent material, due to which they are almost invisible on the teeth. However, they have increased fragility, so they are not suitable for advanced defects that require long-term correction. Popular option: Inspire ICE.
If you are unsure whether to choose ceramic or metal or sapphire braces, ask our orthodontist for advice. Depending on the severity of the defect and your wishes for aesthetics and cost, the doctor will select the best option.
If any brace system is suitable for the patient according to indications?
In this case, we recommend that the patient choose based on aesthetics. The cost will depend proportionally on it. The more invisible the braces, the slightly more expensive they are. Therefore, the patient can choose clear sapphire braces, where activation occurs once a month, or clear ceramic Clear braces, where activation occurs once every 2 months. The most invisible braces - lingual - are placed on the inside of the teeth, they are activated once a month, and they are not visible at all. Their specificity is a slightly longer adaptation period. But the patient chooses, including the financial part that is comfortable for him.
Treatment times also depend on aesthetics - they are slightly longer with transparent systems. The fastest orthodontic treatment occurs with external metal braces
For a patient for whom aesthetics is not important, the orthodontist installs the brace system that works the fastest. Optimally – Damon Q self-ligating braces.
They are also recommended for complex work, with large movements and distances. This is the most reliable option if there is serious work to be done, and not just a small correction. During this time, ceramic braces are still at risk of chipping. Therefore, the patient needs a durable, reliable brace that can withstand this big, challenging job. This is possible with sapphire and ceramic braces, but it will be more difficult and longer. In such situations, it is preferable to choose not ligature metal braces, but self-ligating Damon or even Insignia Damon Q, individually manufactured using digital orthodontic technology. This is the best that an orthodontist can offer his patient.
Damon Q braces
Price of dental braces
The price of dental braces is determined individually, calculated for each jaw and most of all depends on two conditions - material, installation method. If the cost of treatment is critical for you, then give preference to budget metal systems. They are noticeable, but effective, look neat, and are easy to install.
A compromise aesthetic option is ceramics. Zuub constantly runs promotions where you can install systems for literally 20–50% of the average market cost of such structures.
Lingual (invisible) products belong to the “premium” class, but provide exceptional aesthetics of the result. Their cost today varies between 50+ thousand per jaw. The most expensive systems are self-ligating, non-ligating.
What are the disadvantages of ligature braces?
The main disadvantage is more frequent meetings with the orthodontist. The rubber bands on braces require constant replacement. They swell, sometimes change color, can fly off, and over time they control the arc less. For the patient this is not as important as for the doctor, except that for the patient the activation takes longer. Technically, working with ligature braces is more difficult, and they have less control over the process. But for the patient, this is a matter of more difficult hygiene, frequent visits and the duration of treatment in principle. Modern orthodontics is increasingly moving towards self-ligating systems.
Which braces are easiest to care for?
Each type of braces requires careful care and caution when worn. Metal brace systems are less demanding in this regard, as they allow you to practically limit yourself in food. They are not painted, have high strength, and are resistant to temperature changes.
It is also quite easy to care for self-ligating systems, since they do not have ligatures in which food becomes clogged and plaque accumulates.
What is the difference between Inspire Ice clear sapphire braces and Damon Clear ceramic braces?
These bracket systems have different biomechanics. Sapphire braces are ligature braces, and ceramic braces are a passive self-ligating system. Therefore the principle is completely different. With ceramic braces, the patient visits the orthodontist once every 2 months in the initial stages, and with sapphire braces - once a month.
Damon Clear
Inspire Ice
In what situations are lingual and vestibular braces combined?
Basically, when the patient wants to make the orthodontic treatment process invisible to others. Also, sometimes placing a brace system on the lingual, inner surface is due to the immaturity of the enamel in adolescents or the presence of demineralization spots on the outer surface, where the risk of caries is higher.
Active and passive self-ligation
Self-ligation can be passive or active. With the active type of fixation, the bracket clip applies pressure and moves the archwire towards the base of the slot. The orthodontic arch, in turn, puts pressure on the clip. In the case of passive self-ligation, the cover fixes the archwire in the slot without exerting pressure on it. When closed, the bracket turns into a buccal tube: the static cover becomes the fourth wall of the groove, the arch moves freely and is not subject to force. Example: Damon Q.
Damon Q with orthodontic arch
Which braces are best for adults and pediatric patients? American orthodontist Vourdouris JC compared the frictional force of the arch in the bracket groove when using passive and active non-ligature structures. According to a study published in the American J. of Orthodontics & Dentofacial orthopedics, active systems operate with a high friction force of 31.0 g, while passive designs have a low friction force of 0.1 to 0.18 g.
The data obtained scientifically prove that passive self-ligating systems are able to interact with archwires throughout treatment without loss of force and provide a new standard of low friction when moving teeth. American scientists Thorstenson GA and Kusy supplemented the results of the study. Experts have found that when using the Damon System passive self-ligating system, there is significantly lower frictional resistance in dry and wet environments compared to active structures.
Studies conducted by orthodontists indicate the benefits of treatment with passive self-ligating braces.
Which braces do men choose and which braces do women prefer?
Lingual braces are most often chosen by men in leadership positions and women who are sensitive to the aesthetics and invisibility of braces. Men respond better to Incognito internal braces because they are willing to invest in their health and smile, while keeping orthodontic treatment a secret. In addition, men are impressed by German technology and reliability.
If invisibility does not play a role, then men more often choose advanced digital technologies Insignia and braces, which, like a good suit, are made individually. Insignia is the male choice, since they are aimed at high technology, they are interested in it, they believe in it. Women for whom aesthetics and invisibility of the treatment process are especially important often choose transparent braces such as Inspire Ice (sapphire) or Clear (ceramic). In general, at Confidential we always try to find a compromise between aesthetics and functionality.
