|  | Dental Health | Braces

Types of Braces for Teens

Orthodontic braces correct dental problems such as crowded and crooked teeth, misaligned teeth, and teeth with gaps. Braces work by repositioning the teeth to give you a more attractive smile. Teens become candidates for dental braces after all of their baby teeth fall out, and the results after wearing braces often make them more confident about their smiles. Parents and teens have several types of braces from which to choose.

  1. Metal Braces

    • Metal braces are the traditional ones worn by teens. They have metal brackets that adhere to the outer surface of the teeth. A flexible wire of nickel or titanium connects the brackets. Special rubber bands hold the brackets on the top and bottom teeth together. The teen must visit the orthodontist every four to six weeks for wiring, springs and rubber band adjustments.

    Clear Braces

    • Clear braces work the same as metal braces, but teens feel less self-conscious because the braces are barely visible against the teeth. The wire, though, remains visible against the teeth. Clear braces made of sapphire or ceramic are more comfortable than their metal counterparts, according to Cosmetic Braces by Sid Molayem, D.D.S. Inspire ICE says its clear braces don't stain or discolor.

    Lingual Braces

    • Linguals are braces hat operate the same way metal and clear braces, but they are attached to the back of the teen's teeth instead of to the front. Most of the metal parts and wiring on lingual braces are invisible to the naked eye. Dentists make a mold of the teen's teeth during the first visit, and a special laboratory makes the braces, according to Smile for Life. Teens receive their customized braces on their follow-up visit.

    Removable Braces

    • Removable braces are clear, customized braces that teens place over their teeth. They are taken off for eating, drinking and caring for teeth. Also called invisible braces, removable braces are worn for two weeks for 22 or 23 hours a day, according to MayoClinic.com. Orthodontists provide a new set every two weeks until teeth straighten. Teens and adults find them more aesthetic than traditional braces. They cost more than other types of braces.

    Dental Care

    • Teens wear braces from six months to two years, depending on the severity of their dental problems. Proper dental care preserves oral health as teeth align. Without proper dental care, brace wearers increase their chances of plaque, cavities and stained teeth, according to MayoClinic.com. Teens should reduce consumption of sugary and starchy foods, avoid hard foods, brush after every meal, floss, and use a fluoride rinse. Once orthodontists remove braces, teens need to wear retainers to keep teeth from becoming misaligned again.

Braces - Related Articles