Dana Point Orthodontics

If you or a loved one are interested in the possibility of braces, it would be in your best interest to contact an orthodontics office patients trust for braces in Dana Point, CA. 

Whether you are considering braces for yourself, or your child deciding to pursue braces can be overwhelming. There are varying options as to which braces to try, all with their own pros and cons, and price points. Thankfully, an orthodontist can assist their patients, and answer any and all questions they may have concerning braces. Experienced orthodontics can provide insights and wisdom as to which type of braces might be the best fit for you depending on age, durability, and lifestyle. 

What are the different types of braces?

Metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and aligners are all options that will straighten a smile. However, they may not all be the best options for everyone. The most popular and common type of braces is metal braces. Because of their durability, and fit, they are a great option for every age. However, they are the most noticeable of all the braces options. If you are worried that braces may negatively affect your appearance or professionalism, consider ceramic or lingual braces. Ceramic braces are made of clear metal which blends in with the patient’s teeth. Rather than a metal look, ceramic braces camouflage better into the smile. However, due to the translucent style, these braces can stain, or become discolored over time. Since they are more fragile than metal braces, ceramic braces are better suited for adults who can care for them more gently than kids probably can. Lingual braces are an alternative option to traditional metal braces or ceramic braces as they attach to the patient’s back side of their teeth, not inhibiting the smile at all. Since these braces are each individually attached to the patient’s back side of their teeth, they are considered custom and may have a higher price range than metal or ceramic braces. If patients truly want to avoid an obstructive brace for their teeth but desire a straighter smile, they should consider aligners. Aligners are custom-made retainers that shape a patient’s teeth over time. The aligners change over time, slowly molding a patient’s smile. With each new aligner, the retainer becomes tighter, as the teeth move. Unlike metal, ceramic, and lingual braces, aligners can be taken out of the mouth. Since they are clear and can be easily lost, aligners may not be the best option for young children. 

Will patients experience pain with braces? Every patient has a different pain threshold, but an experienced orthodontists such as those at John Redmond Orthodontics will do everything they can to create a pain-free experience. Some patients may feel mild discomfort or a feeling of tightness in their teeth as the braces are put on, and adjusted to straighten the smile. However, the feeling of tightness and uncomfortably goes away shortly. Orthodontists work with patients and their pain tolerance. If you are experiencing pain or feeling uncomfortable, talk with your orthodontist, as they may have creative solutions for pain management. With any work in a patient’s mouth, it is common to feel sore for a brief time. Contact a Dana Point Orthodontics office today and start your journey toward a healthier, and straighter smile.