Pros and cons of metal braces. Positive and negative aspects of treatment with braces Advantages and disadvantages of braces made of different materials

The real reviews of doctors about the pros and cons of braces boil down to the fact that the main advantage of these devices is their ability to correct even the most complex occlusion defects, unlike other orthodontic devices, and the disadvantage is the complexity of care and aesthetic qualities (with the exception of certain types of braces) ... In addition, experts do not advise choosing braces based on numerous tables on the Internet, which compare the duration of treatment with different types of braces and the prices of these designs. Why?

Firstly, every patient must understand that the degree of impact on the teeth and the duration of the correction process are the same for all braces. This is due to the natural mechanism of tooth movement. Secondly, the following can be said about the cost of braces. There are clinics that offer expensive sapphire braces for the price of ceramic ones. And it's not a joke. Simply, the cost of orthodontic structures and services for their use depends on the pricing policy of dentistry, and not on the quality of braces or the qualifications of a doctor. Therefore, in our article, of course, we will tell you about the approximate prices for this or that type of braces, but, basically, we will evaluate the bracket systems according to the following criteria:

aesthetics;
reliability;
ease of wearing;
ease of care.

Interesting fact!

According to rumors, scientists at Oxford University are working on the creation of magnetic braces. They say that their principle of action will be based on the creation of a constant magnetic field using two miniature generators, which will act on the iron contained in the teeth and effectively correct the bite without the need to wear any structures.

Pros and cons of ligature and non-ligature braces

To begin with, the structure of braces made of any material can be divided into ligature and ligature-free. For ligature braces, the arch is attached to the clasps with elastic rings (ligatures). Ligature-free systems are self-ligating, the arc is inserted into a special clip.

Type of braces

Ligature braces

the elasticity of the ligatures provides a more comfortable wearing of braces.
affordable price.

it is necessary to regularly change the ligatures (about once a month), as they stretch during the process of wearing braces.
more complicated hygiene procedure due to the presence of ligatures.

Braces without ligatures

there is no need to replace ligatures, so you can visit the doctor less often.
easier oral care procedure.

are more expensive than ligature braces.

Metal braces are considered the strongest and most reliable structures for bite correction. Their main drawback is obvious - they are striking and do not at all decorate the appearance of their owner. However, due to the affordable price (from 20,000 rubles excluding diagnostics, installation and removal) and the positive results of treatment, metal braces are still very popular among patients.

Type of braces

Metal

design reliability.
affordable price.

unaesthetic design.

Ceramic braces - pros and cons

These orthodontic systems are made from dental ceramics. Having analyzed the pros and cons of ligature-free and ligature ceramic braces, we can conclude that such bracket systems represent a good value for money, allowing you to solve any problems with bite at an affordable price, which in Moscow clinics is about 30,000 rubles for the design itself. one dentition. In this case, diagnostics, installation and removal of the system will have to be paid additionally.

Type of braces

Ceramic

less noticeable than metal ones.
affordable price.

give teeth a yellowish tint.

Sapphire braces - pros and cons

These are transparent artificial sapphire braces that do not really spoil the patient's appearance, but look like a stylish accessory. As for the pros and cons of sapphire braces, their main advantage is considered to be high aesthetics, and a significant disadvantage is the price, since most often they are much more expensive than ceramic ones. However, there are cheaper options for sapphire designs paired with metal or ceramic. Thus, the cost of braces entirely made of sapphire starts in Moscow clinics from 70,000 rubles per construction per one dentition.

Type of braces

Sapphire

transparent.
give the smile a special shine.

completely invisible.
as strong as metal systems.

are more expensive than ceramic braces.
they are more difficult to care for than the vestibular systems, which are attached to the outside of the teeth.
significantly affect diction.

Of course, the above pros and cons of braces will play an important role in shaping your preferences regarding this or that type of these orthodontic structures. However, let us tell you a secret: the best for each patient will be those braces that will help him in solving his problems with bite. Therefore, an experienced and knowledgeable orthodontist will help you choose the right bracket system after examining and diagnosing your teeth.

For many people, even those who have already decided to start straightening their teeth with braces, doubts and fears are characteristic. All sorts of disturbing thoughts begin to penetrate into the head, the person begins to ask questions: what if he will look ugly with them? Will it be possible to eat normally? Will there be problems with diction? Which systems are most effective? You can find answers to these and a number of other questions by examining the pros and cons of braces, which will be discussed below.

Where to start choosing braces?

It is not so easy to make the right choice of a bracket system, since the modern market offers a wide variety of options. To make this easier, you should decide in advance on the following aspects:

your financial capabilities and the maximum price limit;
the duration of wearing the system;
the importance of aesthetics;
number of visits to the orthodontist's office for correction and observation.

For example, if a patient does not have the opportunity to frequently attend correctional activities, then it is advisable for him to opt for self-ligating systems, however, this option will be quite expensive.

For those for whom the aesthetic component is extremely important, the choice is obvious - this, but in this case, one has to take into account the factor of their high cost. If the financial situation does not allow you to spend about 60-70 thousand rubles on braces, then the decision becomes a choice in favor, but if the situation with money is very tight, then you have to stop at.

Kinds

As already mentioned, the variety of types of bracket systems is large; they can be classified into several variations. They are placed on the inner surface of the teeth - on the outer, hence their corresponding typology. Internal structures are preferable from the point of view of aesthetics, but they are much more expensive, plus, their installation is difficult, and they are made to order.

Depending on the materials used, braces are divided into:

ceramic;
metal;
polymer;

Depending on the timing of wearing the system, there are:

small (less than one year);
medium (from one to two years);
large (from three years old and above).

The patient should make the final choice only after analyzing the most detailed information, including after consulting a doctor.

Indications for installing braces

On a note: The installation procedure itself is completely painless, but it cannot be called easy or simple.

Only a qualified specialist should be engaged in this operation, otherwise you will have to forget about the positive result of treatment. You will learn how to choose a qualified doctor from this.

The main indications for the installation of systems are bite defects, no matter whether they were congenital or acquired. If we talk in more detail, then among such indications we should name:

incorrect position of the upper and lower rows of the jaw relative to each other;
large gaps between the teeth;
curvature of individual teeth;
facial profile defects;
unsatisfactory aesthetics of the smile zone;
asymmetry of the face.

The optimal age for placing braces is between 10 and 18 years of age, in rare cases the system can be installed at an earlier age. There are situations when defects of the jaw and teeth occur at a later age, for example, as a result of injury. In these cases, braces should also be placed to help solve the problems that have arisen. You will learn more about the age to get braces up to.

Pros and cons of ligature and ligature-free braces

Regardless of the material used in the manufacture, all braces are divided into. The latter are based on the use of an arc, which, with the help of ligatures, that is, special rings, is attached to the locks on the teeth, while ligature-free structures are self-ligating, in which the arc is installed in a clip intended for this.

Each type of bracket system has its own advantages and disadvantages:

Self-ligating systems
Advantages	disadvantages
you can visit a doctor less often while wearing; easier to care for the oral cavity.	high price.
Ligature constructions
Advantages	disadvantages
wearing comfort; lower cost.	the need for a monthly visit to the doctor; difficulties in the process of caring for the system and the oral cavity.

Pros and cons of metal braces

Braces made of metal are among the most reliable and strong, with their help you can correct almost any defect in the bite, and they are quite adequate, but their serious disadvantage is their unimportant aesthetics. The last aspect is extremely important for representatives of public professions, so they choose other materials, but for most metal systems are still the most successful and most popular solution.

Ceramic braces

These braces are made of dental ceramics and represent a very good solution in terms of the cost and the result obtained. Among their undoubted advantages, in addition to the reasonable price, should be attributed less visibility in comparison with the metal options, however, in the course of their teeth get a yellowish tint, which does not suit everyone. Plus, they cannot cope with more complex defects, this is the prerogative of metal structures.

Sapphire braces - advantages and disadvantages

These faux sapphire products look very attractive and stylish, their excellent aesthetics can be called an undoubted and serious advantage. A big disadvantage will be the high cost, decently more expensive than ceramics, however, they can be combined with the same metal options, putting metal on the back teeth, and sapphire on the front. The use of sapphire braces makes a smile much more attractive and even dazzling, but we must not forget that they are quite fragile and do not differ in particular strength.

Lingual braces - pros and cons

The most optimal option for those who care about the aesthetic side of the issue, since these braces are attached from the inside of the teeth and therefore are invisible to others. Another advantage will be strength and reliability comparable to metal systems, but there are also disadvantages, in particular:

high price;
serious deterioration of diction at the initial stage of wearing;
the need for more complex care.

As you can see, the pros and cons of braces do not allow calling any one design ideal, which, on the one hand, complicates the patient's choice, but on the other hand, makes it easier and more diverse.

Positive and negative points of braces

Often people think that the purpose of braces is to form a beautiful smile, but in fact, their main function is to correct malocclusion. Of course, the second does not exclude the first, so the aesthetic side of the issue matters. It is this factor that often begins to play an important role when choosing between installing a structure and abandoning it, meanwhile, it is also necessary to pay attention to other aspects.

So, the positive aspects of bracket systems will be:

the ability to correct even the most complex and advanced states of curvature of the teeth;
stationary mount eliminates the threat of system breakdown by children;
the enamel becomes stronger and less sensitive, the general condition of the gums and teeth improves.

Quantitatively, there are more minuses than pluses, but this does not affect the quality indicators, since in terms of the effectiveness of the bracket systems, they have proven themselves from the best side. However, among the disadvantages of braces are:

proper care and cleaning is mandatory, otherwise the risk of damage to the structure and the oral cavity will seriously increase. Learn more about caring for braces;
aesthetically, most braces do not look very attractive;
at first, the sensitivity of the teeth increases;
you will have to limit yourself in the consumption of certain foods, primarily solid, viscous and sticky;
the bracket system will have to be worn for a long time, but it all depends on the scale of the problem and the degree of its complexity;
there are a number of contraindications when braces cannot be placed, for example, in case of tuberculosis, blood diseases, periodontitis, as well as in the presence of diseases of the heart, immune or endocrine system.

Pros and cons of braces according to doctors' reviews

Practitioners call the main advantage of braces systems the ability to correct bite defects of any scale and complexity with their help. Not all other orthodontic constructions can successfully solve serious problems, braces in this regard look like an ideal solution. But these same experts point out that the main disadvantage of braces will not be the best aesthetics of most of them, as well as the need for rather complicated care for them.

Often, patients make their choice in favor of a particular system based on comparative tables from the Internet, but this is not the best option, and here's why:

all structures have the ability to influence the movement of teeth in a row with the same force, since this mechanism is based on their natural ability to change their location;
in matters of pricing, care should be taken, often the main criterion is not the quality or reliability of the system, as well as the qualifications of the orthodontist, but the pricing policy of the clinic and its desire to make money corny.

Therefore, one should rely not on the price of the structure, but on its reliability, appearance, the complexity of its care and ease of use. Now in the medical community there are rumors about the development of magnetic braces that do not require wearing any structures on the teeth. The idea is based on the use of two generators of a magnetic field, which will act on the iron contained in the teeth, which will allow them to be moved in the right direction, but so far this is nothing more than fantasy, a question for the future.

Myths about the use of braces

Dentistry has long and firmly been associated in the minds of many people with pain and discomfort; there are many rumors and even myths associated with this area that are completely untrue:

Myth # 1 - braces and beauty are incompatible. It was once so, since the structures were bulky, inconvenient and were the cause of frequent discomfort, but modern systems are radically different from them for the better. Thanks to the use of various materials, wearing braces not only becomes comfortable, but also the very fact of their use can be hidden by placing, for example, lingual braces.
Myth number 2 - braces are placed only in childhood. This misconception comes from another one, which is based on the erroneous opinion that the bite can be corrected only in childhood. In fact, there are no age restrictions, you can put braces after 30 and after 40 years. Yes, it will take more time, but that's all.
Myth number 3 - wearing constructions is associated with pain. Technically, this is true, but only in the first few days after installation, usually everything goes away in two to three days. This is due to the reaction of the body to the intervention made from the outside, but subsequent adaptation removes this problem completely.
Myth # 4 - wearing braces leads to tooth decay. The system does not harm the enamel, but the deterioration of the condition of the teeth really often occurs, only this is connected with the actions of the patient himself, for example, ignoring the requirements and rules of oral hygiene on his part. Of course, the enamel can suffer, but this is due to the initial lack of minerals in the tooth, and not due to wearing the system.
Myth No. 5 - an allergy may occur to an installed structure. Most of these problems are of a different nature, namely the presence of gum disease in the patient. If, before the start of the correction, a correct and high-quality sanitation of the oral cavity is carried out, then the patient will not have any problems with this aspect.

It is also important to remember that a person's attitude towards treatment plays a significant role in the overall success of an undertaking. A personal interest in success can be a powerful motive for treatment, contributing to the much desired positive result.

What are braces and what are they for?

A bracket system or simply braces is a non-removable structure that allows you to align the dentition or correct the bite regardless of age. The system consists of an arc and locks, which, thanks to a special glue, are attached to the teeth. Braces are made from different metals or alloys, are characterized by several types of fastening, and also oblige the patient to observe special rules of oral hygiene.

Young girl with braces

Indications and contraindications for the installation of braces

Indications

Various degrees of bite deformation;
Crowding teeth;
Excessive development of one jaw relative to the other;
Dystopia is an abnormal position of one or more teeth;
Elimination of gaps between teeth.

Contraindications

Absence of a large number of teeth;
Weak teeth;
Paradontitis;
Bruxism (teeth grinding);
Diseases of the immune system;
Oncology;
Disease of the bone system, in which there is a low level of its healing;
Tuberculosis, HIV, sexually transmitted diseases;
Allergy to any materials.

When to start wearing braces

It is impossible to unambiguously answer this question. Each case is different. Usually the most suitable age is 10-12 years. It is at this time that the child is actively growing, as well as the completion of the bite formation. Thus, wearing braces will give a good and quick effect.

Depending on the case, the doctor may prescribe treatment at an earlier age, and sometimes at 17-18 years old. Everything is quite individual.

Photos before and after braces

When choosing the optimal age for installing and wearing braces, it is worth considering:

The degree of malocclusion;
Tooth enamel condition;
General development of the patient;
Willingness / unwillingness to wear a bracket system;
The level of oral hygiene.

It will not be superfluous to visit an orthodontist at the age of 3-4 years, when the milk bite is fully formed. This will allow you to determine in advance if the child has any problems and how to solve them.

There are three main periods for orthodontic treatment:

Early treatment

Between the ages of 5 and 10. During this period, to change the bite or straighten the teeth, they put removable structures "plates", elastic aligners - trainers. In special cases, "partial braces" are used.

However, it should be noted that the treatment is considered complete only after the eruption of all permanent teeth. Thus, the treatment can last from 5-6 years to 14-15, which can lead to unpleasant consequences (the child will get tired of wearing braces for so long). Therefore, it is worth starting early treatment only when urgently needed.

Treatment in adolescence

11-12 years old.This age is most favorable for orthodontic treatment. Because this is the time of active growth of the child, the solution of occlusion problems and the alignment of the teeth occurs faster and better. Usually, at this age, it is the bracket system that is installed.

Since this orthodontic structure is not removable, great attention should be paid to oral hygiene.

Adult treatment

Over 18 years old.Braces treatment is effective regardless of the patient's age. However, there are still some differences in teeth alignment and occlusion correction.

Adult braces

Alas, with age, the general condition of the teeth worsens. The patient faces problems such as fillings in the teeth (some teeth are depulpated), tooth extraction, chronic gum disease - periodontitis. The condition of the body as a whole can also deteriorate. All this can lead to long-term and not always high-quality treatment.

Braces are also the mainstay of treatment.

Pros and cons of braces

The main benefit is the ability to correct any pathology associated with the position of the teeth, regardless of age;
Achieving a beautiful and, most importantly, healthy smile. Thanks to the bracket system, after 2-3 weeks of treatment, positive changes in relation to the position of the teeth are visible.
The absolute absence of any age restrictions. The only limitation may be the poor condition of the teeth and gums.

Oral hygiene becomes more complicated. The patient should brush his teeth more thoroughly. In the case of poor hygiene, the accumulation of plaque can lead to tooth decay, gingivitis, and other diseases of the teeth and gums.
Most patients are discouraged by the duration of the braces. Treatment can last from several months to 3 years. Not everyone will agree.
The high cost of braces. Basically, the price depends on the material from which the locks and arcs are made, on the duration of treatment, as well as on the qualifications of the orthodontist.
The harm from braces can lie in the increased vulnerability of tooth enamel to the threat of caries.

Lingual braces

This is a type of orthodontic orthodontic (also called invisible) that is attached to the inside of the teeth. This type of braces is popular with movie and pop stars.

How are lingual braces positioned?

Benefits:

Absolutely invisible, because are attached to the inside of the teeth;
They do not injure the tissues of the oral cavity, namely: cheeks, gums and lips;
With their help, it is possible to correct a deep bite;
Virtually eliminate the possibility of damage to tooth enamel;
Allergy sufferers can also wear them. gold can be used in the manufacture of the lingual structure.

Disadvantages:

May affect diction in the first 2-3 weeks of wearing;
Possible injury to the tongue and excessive saliva;
Production time is about 2 months;
Compared to vestibular (those attached to the front of the teeth) braces, lingual braces are difficult to care for;
The duration of treatment is increased by 3-4 months;
Quite high price;
There are more contraindications than for the usual ones.

Ceramic bracket system

It consists of the same elements as a regular metal one. The material for the manufacture of this type of braces is polycrystalline or monocrystalline ceramics.

ADVANTAGES:

Aesthetics. The color of the ceramics is similar to the enamel of the teeth, which makes the system invisible.
Hypoallergenic. Ceramic braces can be placed on patients with increased sensitivity to metals;
Thanks to the smooth surface and rounded shape, there is no possibility of injury to the cheeks, gums and lips.
High strength;
resistance to dyes in food; do not turn yellow over time.

Sapphire and ceramic braces

LIMITATIONS:

Quite high cost;
The duration of treatment is increased by 3-4 months;
Due to the tight fit of the bracket to the tooth enamel, its demineralization and destruction are possible.

Are braces harmful to teeth

For 20 years, clinical research and technological capabilities have improved orthodontic treatment. Thanks to this, the wearing of modern braces is absolutely safe.

However, patients may face certain difficulties:

The discomfort. After installing the braces, the patient will feel discomfort. The degree of discomfort directly depends on the pain threshold. Usually, the patient feels a little pain in the teeth and gums.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Often people assume that braces will stain the teeth or damage the enamel and cause swelling of the gums. It is a myth. The patient should remember to thoroughly brush his teeth, use dental floss and a brush to clean the system. In this case, there will be no problems with the teeth.
Root resorption - reduction of the roots of the teeth. It is difficult to determine whether the braces affected in one way or another, because root resorption can occur without orthodontic treatment. Some people have a predisposition for this.

The consequences of wearing braces

After the completion of treatment with a bracket system, the patient may experience complications. If during the treatment the teeth lacked calcium, after removing the system, stains may appear on the teeth, i.e. foci of demineralization. This is followed by caries. A gum pocket may also appear.

You need to understand that the condition of the teeth after removing the braces entirely depends on the level of oral hygiene during the treatment itself.

In addition, an experienced orthodontist must not only choose the right material and design, but also carefully examine the patient's oral cavity during each visit. In this way, complications can be avoided.

Based on the foregoing, it should be noted that braces are the best treatment method in orthodontics. There are drawbacks, of course. However, the result is worth it. Treatment with a bracket system gives an effective result. Even the most difficult problems of bite and curvature of teeth can be corrected thanks to modern orthodontic designs.

Braces or braces are orthodontic permanent wearing design in the mouth in order to correct the position of the teeth or correcting malocclusion.

Consists of locks that attached separately to each tooth with the help of special glue, and two arcs, which are connected, and then fastened together for correct alignment.

Do I need to bet? Health Benefits and Other Pros of Braces

Everyone loves a beautiful smile, but few will be delighted with what served it. Braces are different in type... Despite any appearance, I don't want to put them on because of painful sensations already at the stage of attachment, although there are many advantages to wearing braces:

Achieving the perfect smile. Already after 2-3 weeks good results will be noticeable in the position of the teeth, and in a year the smile will become Hollywood.
You can wear braces regardless of age.
Design on teeth look unusual and beautifuland lately wearing products has become fashionable.
Short-term pain. Unpleasant sensations will be only in the first 2-3 days after attaching the braces.
Variety of material choices for braces for every taste and budget.

Let the bracket design and supposed to be worn by people with a problematic bite, and not for those who want to achieve a beautiful smile, but one does not exclude the other. When choosing staples the doctor will take into account the general aesthetic nuance treatment. And already after two months the patient can boast noticeable transformation of the dentition.

What are the disadvantages?

Wearing braces also includes negative points... Them can not be worn by those who suffer from certain diseases, namely:

Chronic pathology of the cardiovascular system.
Diseases of the bone and musculoskeletal system.
Endocrine system diseases.
Caries.
Oncology.

And braces should not be placed in case of inflammatory processes in the mouth, availability multiple crowns and fillings, periodontal disease and stains and calculi on the teeth... If the oral cavity and state of health are normal, and the doctor prescribes a bracket system, then the patient will face such cons wearing designs as:

High cost of braces, depending on the material from which the structure is made and the duration of treatment.
Duration wearing staples that fluctuate within from several months to three years.
Special care of the oral cavity during treatment. So, the patient you will have to brush your teeth much harder and more oftenthan before, to protect them from plaque, which leads to tooth decay.
Hammering food into braces... It doesn't matter what kind of food a person consumes, in any case a particle of it gets into the staples, and the teeth will have to be brushed right away.
Monthly visit to the orthodontistleading to financial waste.
Small damage formation on the gums and the inside of the cheeks due to the construction.

Attention! To avoid micro-damage in the mouth when wearing braces, it is recommended to smear the oral cavity with petroleum jelly in those places where the mucous membrane is in contact with the arch of the structure.

Advantages and disadvantages of braces made of different materials

To date it is difficult to decide on a bracket system, because the the variety of species makes you get lost in the choice.

Modern medicine offers the following types of products:

metal;
plastic;
ceramic;
sapphire.

Constructions differ in the advantages of some over others, price and quality.

Metallic

it classic design, proven by generations, which is still installed more often to this day. It is made of nickel-titanium alloys and stainless steel. Such materials are simple and reliable... The rest of the advantages of such a bracket system include:

Lack of friction of the arc on the enamel of the teeth, as a result of which treatment is faster.
Possibility selection of lock shapes (stars, hearts, etc.) that children will like and will help to emphasize individuality.
Affordability and reliability fastening.

Minus in this construction one - appearance... Metal is visible on the dentition, and therefore, for those who care about aesthetics, and not benefits, it will be unacceptable.

Plastic

it almost invisible design, which will appeal to lovers of open smiles. If you put this system, then its main advantagewill be inconspicuous appearance... In addition value for money and aesthetics at the level... Plastic braces are cheap among other types of braces.

Talking about disadvantages, highlight the following points:

Limited use. Plastic braces suitable for those who do not need long-term treatment... That is, for simple cases of bite correction.
Short-lived and wear off already after a year of use.
Low strength.
Plastic darkensbecause of the cigarette colored from food colors.