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| The New Look of Braces |
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Never before have orthodontic patients had so many choices when it comes to the appearance of their mouth. Not only will they have a healthy smile at the end of treatment; they can make a fashion statement during treatment. From colorful bands that can be changed with the season to ceramic braces that are hard to see, orthodontic equipment has something for everyone.
A Subtle Look for Adults
If you are considering orthodontic treatment but don’t want a metal-mouth appearance, clear braces or ceramic braces may be the answer.
Orthodontists now offer clear braces that allow the color of your teeth to show through and ceramic braces that blend with the color of your teeth. These innovative products work as well as steel braces, are easy to clean and don’t conduct heat or cold. They do cost a little extra, but if you want to keep the focus on you and not your mouth, ask your orthodontist about using them.
For anyone who really wants to hide their braces, invisible braces (also called lingual braces) are available. Carefully placed behind your teeth, these braces effectively realign your smile without showing you are wearing an orthodontic appliance. This form of correction does have a few drawbacks, however, because invisible braces can make it harder to speak without slurring and can get in the way when you eat. Talk to an orthodontist to get all the facts before making a decision.
The Smaller the Better
If you want to minimize the amount of braces that show, consider mini-braces. Four times smaller than standard braces, this appliance has a small, jewelry-like look. They are comfortable because the reduced size minimizes lip and cheek irritation, and they are easy to keep clean. Your orthodontist can show you your options and tell you if mini-braces will work for you.
Making a Fashion Statement with your Mouth
If you want to take advantage of the fashion opportunity braces allow, then you’ll love the wide array of colorful braces now available. From soft pastels to bright colors - and even glow-in-the-dark, there’s never been a better opportunity to dress up an outfit, show school spirit or decorate for the holidays. Color can be placed on the elastic ties that bind wires to the brackets, the wires and the rubber bands. And, you can change the colors you select when your wires are changed or in the case of rubber bands, anytime you put one on.
A fashionable mouth doesn’t have to end when your braces come off. Colorful retainers with everything from the logo of your favorite sports team to glow-in-the-dark green are available.
The Best News of All
While it’s nice to have so many options when it comes to what braces you’ll wear, the best news is it may make your treatment more effective. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) believes that patients who are enthusiastic about how they look will be more cooperative about their treatment. And, better cooperation can yield better results and make the orthodontic experience more pleasant.
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