Braces make beautiful smiles! If you’ve chosen braces with Zombek Orthodontics, then congratulations! You’re on your way to the smile of your dreams! If you’re still considering braces, we totally understand. It’s a big decision and commitment, and there are several factors to consider. One factor is the look of your braces. Do you want the traditional braces, or are you looking for cosmetic braces? What are cosmetic braces, anyway?
Zombek Orthodontics is here to help you learn about the different kinds of braces and what is right for you. Do you want that braces look, or are you looking for something nearly invisible? Let’s explore your options.
What are cosmetic braces, and why do people prefer them? Cosmetic braces can be a broad term that refers to the general aesthetic side of braces and orthodontic treatment. Ceramic braces, lingual braces, and even clear aligners are typical components of a conversation about cosmetic braces. Some people also consider fashion braces or fake braces to be cosmetic braces.
There are several things that be classified as cosmetic braces. We have patients who ask us about the different types and want to know, “can cosmetic braces fix my teeth?” That all depends on the type of cosmetic braces you use.
Are braces considered cosmetic? Some can be. Cosmetic braces can include clear braces. These braces are usually created with a ceramic material designed to match the natural color of teeth more closely. Otherwise, clear braces are nearly identical to metal ones. They still include a metal archwire, in most cases, that gently pressures the teeth to move into their proper positions.
Patients consider these braces to be cosmetic braces because, as with Invisalign, they take the look of the braces into consideration. Cosmetic braces are harder to see than metal ones.
Lingual braces can also be considered cosmetic because they’re nearly invisible. That’s because they are placed on the back sides of the teeth rather than across the front. Lingual braces use pressure to pull the teeth into place. They're nearly hidden from view because they’re on the backside.
Lingual braces have a few disadvantages, however. It can be harder to clean teeth properly with lingual braces. They also tend to be much more costly than traditional braces or even Invisalign. They also can’t be used in every orthodontic case. That’s why we prefer self-ligating braces and Invisalign for treatment.
Some of the most popular cosmetic braces aren’t really braces, but they do the same work. Clear aligners offer the same movement power as braces but totally different looks. Zombek Orthodontics is a Platinum Provider of Invisalign, one of the most popular clear aligner systems.
Invisalign uses a special clear material to apply gentle pressure to your teeth and move them to their correct positions. They do this without wires or brackets. The clear material is custom-molded to your teeth, making Invisalign virtually invisible. Bottom line, Invisalign can fix teeth without looking like there is anything fixing your teeth.
There is another type of braces making the rounds on TikTok and other social media platforms. That’s “fashion braces,” which are actually fake braces. Some are simply mouthguard-like devices that slip over your teeth and give them the look of braces as a gag. But others have brackets attached to a wire that slips over the teeth. Some believe they work just like braces.
Fake braces for teeth aren’t anything like real braces, and they can do more harm than good. Real braces require detailed planning to put the proper pressure on each tooth to move them into their proper position. They also need a certain amount of pressure. Anything over that can cause the teeth to become too loose and lead to tooth loss. Bottom line, if you need braces, see a professional. Do-it-yourself braces can cause much more harm than good.
Cosmetic Dentistry sounds like something that includes cosmetic braces. It’s actually different, but cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics go hand-in-hand. Cosmetic dentistry can include everything from veneers and dental implants to teeth whitening and teeth caps. These services are usually done by a dentist. Sometimes, however, they can’t be done well without the help of orthodontic treatment.
A good example of this would be veneers. These are thin acrylic or ceramic shells that are placed on the front surface of a tooth to give it a better appearance. People get veneers to improve the look of a tooth that’s chipped, cracked, discolored or otherwise damaged. But if their teeth are crooked, it’s difficult to apply veneers.
That’s where orthodontics comes in. The dentist may recommend treatment with Invisalign or braces to straighten the teeth enough to apply veneers. Once the teeth are straight, it’s easy for the dentist to finish the job with the veneers.
Patients who want their smile to look great often use both cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics to achieve that goal. Treatment with braces or Invisalign can close gaps between teeth, line them up properly, and spread out crowded teeth. Let’s face it: Your teeth look better when they’re straight, and it gives you more confidence. That’s why we do what we do.
Braces or clear aligners may be how to get perfect teeth, but how long does the process take? The answer is, “it depends.” Several factors determine the length of time it will take, from the number of dental issues to the severity of each one. It also depends on the patient. There are certain things you must do to keep your treatment on track. In general, treatment with Invisalign can be anywhere from 6-15 months. Treatment with regular braces averages 12-24 months. However, we use LightForce braces at Zombek Orthodontics, which shortens treatment times.
One patient finished braces treatment in as little as 9 months with only a few office visits, thanks in part to LightForce braces. LightForce braces are custom-made for you to provide the absolute best treatment in the shortest amount of time.
Unlike regular braces, which use the same brackets for everyone, LightForce brackets are custom, 3D printed to fit each of your teeth perfectly and in just the right spot. That way, the pressure is applied exactly where it needs to be to move the tooth quickly and more comfortably than traditional braces. This means LightForce braces work faster. Patients can complete treatment from 9-18 months!
Sometimes, the conflict with the orthodontist isn’t about treatment — it’s about scheduling. If you have a busy schedule, it will be hard to fit in an orthodontist appointment. If your orthodontist has a huge clientele, scheduling is even more difficult. Try working with your orthodontist to find a solution. Changing orthodontists may be the only answer. You must attend appointments and get regular checkups, so you need an orthodontist who can accommodate your schedule.
We believe everyone deserves to have the smile they’ve always wanted. We also believe that treatment with braces or Invisalign is the best way to get you there. Your oral health is our top priority, but we also care about your self-esteem. We want your teeth to look great, and we want you to feel confident getting there. So if you’re looking for cosmetic braces in the Hollywood or Weston, FL, areas, schedule an appointment with Zombek Orthodontics. Let us show you how amazing your smile can look!
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