Blog Coburg Dental Group

Braces are metallic appliances that are fixed on the surface of the teeth. They’re easily visible but they have a number of advantages over removable orthdontics.

There’s a diverse range of braces available today. The one that is chosen depends on the type of oral problem that needs to be corrected. Braces have been used for over a century and have changed significantly in that time. They’re proven effective in correcting misaligned teeth and minor malocclusions of the jaw.

Newer metallic braces aren’t as bulky and noticeable as those worn by patients in the past. They come with smaller brackets and thinner wires. Patients can even choose ceramic brackets instead of metallic ones to make the braces less noticeable.

Advantages of Braces

• Arch wires used in traditional braces contain stainless steel or alloys of nickel and titanium. They’re more durable than plastic aligners.
• Heat activated metallic wires work quickly on misaligned teeth. They reduce treatment time and demand fewer wire changes.
• Braces are glued onto the teeth, so patients don’t have to worry about forgetting to put them in or take them out. This means that they are constantly working to straighten the teeth. Clear aligners will often be taken out to eat or sometimes forgotten for a day or more, this slows down treatment significantly.
• Since they’re fixed in place, patients don’t have to worry about losing them.
• Traditional braces help align children’s teeth. Modern aligners are not always suitable for smaller children. This is where traditional braces come in handy.
• They can correct bite problems or malocclusions of the jaw. The patient is less likely to suffer from TMJ dysfunction after correcting malocclusions of the jaw.
• They’re cheaper than transparent aligners so they’re very popular. Besides, they are custom-made so patients can choose either silver or gold braces. Young children can also change the colour of their ligatures to vary things up a bit.

Lingual Braces

If you’re thinking of getting traditional braces, talk to the dental practitioner about lingual braces. These are metallic braces fitted on the tongue side of the teeth. They’re invisible on the outside so they’re an ideal choice for patients who are conscious about wearing metallic wires and brackets.

Lingual braces shift teeth into position by applying steady pressure. But they’re not ideal for people who have an overcrowded mouth. They’re not as easy to keep clean either. So you have to work with your dentist to find the right treatment option.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

The entire process can last anywhere from 18 to 24 months, depending on the goal of the treatment. Metallic braces are stronger than other appliances. They apply good pressure on the teeth and speed up the treatment process. If you stick to the orthodontist’s instructions, you will have a beautiful set of teeth in a short span of time.

Family Dentistry for You

For the latest dental treatment options, visit the orthodontic team at Coburg Dental Group. We offer a broad range of services for both general and cosmetic dentistry in Northern Melbourne. Our state-of-the-art clinic features the latest medical tools. So whether you’re looking for a professional paediatric dentist or a cosmetic dentist, swing by our clinic and find out what we can do for you.

Our certified dental practitioners have years of experience in orthodontics. We also offer sleep dentistry in Brunswick and surrounding suburbs. You don’t have to worry about being anxious at the dentist’s office any more.

Call us on 03 9386 1805 to have a chat with one of our friendly associates.