How many types of braces are there? Do they weaken the teeth?

Braces are a promising method to safely and effectively address conditions such as overbite, underbite, gaps, and misaligned teeth for long-term results. So, how many types of braces are there? How long does the process take? What is the ideal age for braces? These questions will be answered by experts at The East Rose Dental Clinic below.

What are braces?

Braces are a dental method that uses orthodontic appliances to correct dental issues, helping to harmonize and balance facial and dental aesthetics. How long does it take to complete braces? The duration of braces depends on factors such as the severity of misalignment, the age of the patient (braces from ages 12-18 are faster than after 25), the type of braces, and the orthodontist's treatment plan.

How many types of braces are there?

So, how many types of braces are there? Currently, braces are categorized into the following types:

• Metal braces: This system uses stainless steel brackets and archwires combined with interarch elastics, suitable for severe cases of misaligned teeth, overbite, underbite, protrusion, or bite issues.
• Self-ligating braces: These braces feature an automatic sliding mechanism on each bracket, which securely holds the archwire without the need for elastics. This ensures even force distribution across the teeth.
• Ceramic braces: The brackets are made of ceramic, or in more advanced options, sapphire or crystal. However, their structure and functionality are similar to self-ligating braces.
• Clear aligners: Instead of brackets and wires, this orthodontic method uses removable transparent trays. Typically, 20 to 45 trays are required per treatment, depending on the degree of tooth movement and the orthodontist's treatment plan.

Stages of the Braces Process

Unlike other cosmetic dental procedures, braces require time and patience. The stages of this process typically unfold as follows:

Stage 1: Aligning the Teeth

• The dentist creates a suitable orthodontic plan.
• Braces and archwires are placed on the teeth, with the archwire starting to exert force to move the teeth.
• In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary.
• Depending on the severity of misalignment, this stage typically lasts from 2 to 6 months.
• Pain and discomfort may occur during the first week, gradually easing afterward.

Stage 2: Aligning the Tooth Roots

• After the teeth are straightened, the next step is to align the tooth roots. The archwire now exerts force to move the tooth roots into the correct position, ensuring the proper alignment of the teeth.
• This stage lasts from 2 to 4 months.

Stage 3: Closing the Gaps

• This stage is crucial in the orthodontic process and directly impacts the aesthetic appearance of the smile. The dentist replaces the archwire with a Stainless Steel wire to increase rigidity and uses springs or elastics to close the gaps and bring the teeth into the planned position.
• This stage lasts from 4 to 8 months.
• You will notice changes in both your teeth and facial appearance, especially for those with an overbite.

Stage 4:  Adjusting the Bite Vertically

• This stage is essential for the chewing function of the teeth after orthodontic treatment.
• The dentist attaches elastics from the upper jaw to the lower jaw in a vertical direction to ensure proper contact between the two jaws.
• This stage lasts from 2 to 8 weeks, helping to prevent errors like open bite or improper occlusion.

Stage 5: Retention

• The dentist stabilizes the teeth in their new position to maintain the long-term results of the orthodontic treatment.
• Orthodontic appliances will be used to secure the archwire on the inner side of the teeth.

Read more: 10 common issues with braces and their effective solutions

Do braces hurt?

In some cases, braces may require tooth extractions (such as for severe overbite, underbite, severe misalignment, or wisdom teeth), and the archwire exerts pressure to move the teeth into the desired position, which can cause discomfort or pain. Additionally, the skill of the dentist can affect how you feel during treatment. However, there’s no need to worry too much, as the level of pain from braces is not as intense as you might think.

Do braces make your teeth weaker?

Many people wonder if braces can weaken their teeth. According to dental professionals, braces do not negatively impact the overall health of your teeth. However, there are risks that could weaken the teeth if certain issues arise during the process, such as:

• Poor technique and skill of the dentist.
• Use of low-quality materials for the orthodontic appliances.
• Incorrect placement of brackets or insufficient force from the archwire and elastics, leading to slow or improper tooth movement.
• Excessive force from the braces that may affect the jawbone, tooth roots, or sockets, causing resorption, pain, or weakening of the teeth, making it difficult to chew.
• Failure to treat underlying dental issues (if any), making the teeth weaker during the force application.
• Inadequate oral care during the braces treatment.
• Not avoiding foods that can harm the teeth.
• Attempting orthodontic treatment despite being advised against it due to health conditions.

Safe and Modern Braces Locations

Braces bring a complete transformation to both your teeth and facial appearance. However, to achieve the desired results, selecting a clinic with skilled dentists is the most important step. The East Rose Dental Clinic is one of the leading trusted dental centers in Vietnam, with a team of experienced dentists and specialists who have trained and conducted research in advanced countries such as Germany, the USA, Japan, France, and South Korea.

Additionally, the clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and modern equipment, ensuring the most accurate and effective service delivery. 100% of customers are satisfied with the aesthetic services, including braces, at The East Rose Dental Clinic.

Braces are an effective method to help you regain a confident smile with straight, aligned teeth. However, choosing a reputable clinic for orthodontic treatment is crucial, as it helps minimize risks such as unsatisfactory results, prolonged treatment time, and even weakening of the teeth.