Alernative Braces

Q: I would like to straighten my teeth but would not want metal braces as I am working. Are there any other alternatives?

If your main concern with metal braces is aesthetics, then you can consider Invisalign, lingual or ceramic braces. Invisalign straightens your teeth with a series of clear aligners. In some cases, patients may require tooth-coloured attachments on their teeth to aid with tooth movement. These are not invisible but are discreet. Lingual braces use metal brackets and wires that are placed on the back of your teeth, completely preventing it from being seen. Ceramic braces attach to the teeth in a similar fashion to metal braces, but the brackets are tooth-coloured. Here are other factors for consideration:

Comfort

Invisalign aligners are removable, hence it is convenient for you to remove them whenever required. As for lingual and ceramic braces, you may find that the metal wires/brackets rub against your tongue/inner cheeks, resulting in initial soreness and in some cases, ulcers. Nonetheless, rest assured that most patients are able to adapt quickly to them.

Discipline

For Invisalign, you are recommended to wear the aligners for a minimum of 20 hours a day. That means that you remove them during meals, brush 30 to 45 minutes after your meals and then wear them again. As for lingual and ceramic braces, you need to set aside more time to brush your teeth as the wires/brackets tend to trap food/plaque.

You are encouraged to discuss your concerns with your orthodontist so that he/she may advise the best treatment option for you.

Dr May Ling Eide is a Dental Surgeon with Postgraduate Training in Orthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her specialist training in orthodontics from the University of London and is registered as an Orthodontist on the Specialist List of the General Dental Council in the United Kingdom. For more information, visit www.specialistdentalgroup.com.