Choosing the right orthodontic treatment can feel overwhelming, especially with so many types of braces available today. Whether you’re looking for braces for kids or adults, understanding the different types of dental braces is the first step toward achieving a healthy, confident smile. At Victory Plaza Dental Group in North Hollywood, we specialize in helping families explore the best orthodontic options through expert consultations and personalized care. From traditional metal braces to modern clear aligners, we offer a range of solutions designed to meet your unique needs and lifestyle. Let’s dive into the different types of braces to find the best fit for you or your child.
Different Kinds of Braces for Adults
Misaligned teeth are a common concern for adults seeking to improve their smiles and oral health. At Victory Plaza Dental Group in North Hollywood, we offer a variety of braces specifically designed to meet the unique needs of adult patients. Whether you’re dealing with crooked teeth, gaps, crowding, or bite issues, there’s a treatment option for you.
Many adults today are taking advantage of orthodontic care to enhance both their appearance and overall dental health. Modern braces are more discreet, comfortable, and efficient than ever before—making adult orthodontic treatment easier and more accessible.
Why Adult Braces Are More Popular Than Ever
In the past, there was a stigma around adults wearing braces. Today, however, it’s widely accepted—and even encouraged—as people recognize the lifelong benefits of a straight, healthy smile. Whether you need a major correction or a minor adjustment, getting braces as an adult can boost your confidence and improve your oral health.
If you’re wondering:
- Where can I get the best adult braces in North Hollywood?
- What types of braces are available for adults?
- How much do braces cost in North Hollywood?
You’re in the right place! At Victory Plaza Dental Group, we offer personalized consultations to help you choose the best option for your smile and lifestyle.
Types of Braces for Adults
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most well-known type of braces, trusted for over a century. Thanks to advancements in technology, today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before.
At Victory Plaza Dental Group, our orthodontist places metal brackets on each tooth and connects them with a wire held in place by elastic ties. Regular adjustments every four to eight weeks help guide your teeth into the correct position.
While they may not be as discreet as some other options, metal braces remain one of the most reliable and cost-effective solutions for adults seeking significant orthodontic improvements.
Mini Braces
Mini braces work similarly to traditional metal braces but are smaller in size. They require less metal, making them less noticeable and often more comfortable.
If appearance and comfort are important to you, mini braces might be an ideal choice. Like traditional braces, you’ll have certain food restrictions and will need to visit our office regularly for rubber band changes and adjustments.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces also use wires to shift teeth but differ by eliminating the need for elastic rubber bands. Instead, they use special clips or doors to hold the wires in place.
This system often results in shorter appointment times and easier cleaning. Self-ligating braces can be a great option for patients with higher sensitivity, developmental delays, or difficulty sitting for long periods.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored materials, making them much less noticeable.
They offer a great balance between aesthetics and effectiveness, especially for adults who want a discreet option without switching to clear aligners. However, ceramic braces are slightly larger and may stain if not cared for properly, so excellent oral hygiene is important.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, have become one of the most popular orthodontic options for adults. These removable, transparent trays gradually shift your teeth into alignment while offering unmatched convenience.
Benefits of Invisalign include:
- Virtually invisible appearance
- Removable for easy brushing, flossing, and eating
- Fewer office visits required
- Often faster treatment times for mild to moderate cases
Clear aligners are best for adults with mild to moderate misalignment without complex jaw issues. Learn more about Invisalign treatment here.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind your teeth, making them completely invisible from the outside. They are fully customized to fit the shape of your teeth and provide an excellent option for patients who prioritize aesthetics.
However, lingual braces can cause a temporary lisp or tongue irritation until you get used to them. Because they require specialized training to place, it’s important to choose an experienced orthodontist—like those at Victory Plaza Dental Group—for your lingual braces treatment.
Types of Braces for Kids
Getting braces is a major milestone in a child’s life. At Victory Plaza Dental Group in North Hollywood, we offer a variety of braces designed specifically for kids’ needs—combining durability, comfort, and style.
Choosing the best type of braces for your child depends on several factors, including their age, dental condition, and even their personal preferences. Whether your child wants colorful bands or a more discreet look, we offer options to fit every smile.
Best Braces Options for Kids
Our most commonly recommended types of braces for children include:
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces remain a top choice for younger patients. They are highly effective for treating crowding, spacing, and bite issues. Plus, kids often love choosing colorful rubber bands to personalize their smiles.
Mini Braces
Mini braces offer the same powerful straightening capabilities as traditional braces but are smaller and less bulky. Their reduced size often makes them more comfortable for children, helping boost confidence throughout treatment.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces use clips instead of elastic bands to hold the wires in place. This can lead to shorter adjustment appointments and less pressure on your child’s teeth.
Clear Aligners for Teens
For responsible teens, clear aligners (such as Invisalign Teen) offer a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth. Clear aligners are removable, making it easier to eat, brush, and floss.
However, clear aligners are most successful when worn consistently. If you think your teen will be committed to wearing their aligners as directed, this could be an excellent, discreet option. Learn more about Invisalign for teens here.
Why Ceramic Braces Are Less Common for Kids
While ceramic braces are an attractive option for adults, they are less commonly recommended for children. Ceramic braces are larger and more fragile than metal braces, and they can stain without excellent brushing habits—making them less ideal for younger kids.
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Treatment
You might wonder: why treat baby teeth when they fall out anyway? In reality, baby teeth play a crucial role in guiding the proper development of your child’s adult teeth.
By addressing alignment issues early, we can help:
- Create space for emerging permanent teeth
- Prevent more complex (and costly) treatments later
- Support proper chewing and speech development
- Build lifelong confidence with a beautiful smile
Braces Options Explained: A Quick Comparison
Choosing the right type of braces depends on your dental needs, age, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Type of Braces | Best For | Key Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Metal Braces | Kids and adults needing major correction | Highly effective, durable, affordable | Most visible option |
| Mini Braces | Patients wanting a smaller profile | Smaller, more comfortable, less metal | Still visible |
| Self-Ligating Braces | Sensitive patients, shorter appointments | Easier cleaning, fewer visits | Slightly higher cost |
| Ceramic Braces | Adults/teens focused on aesthetics | Less visible, tooth-colored | Larger, prone to staining |
| Clear Aligners (Invisalign) | Responsible teens and adults | Nearly invisible, removable | Requires discipline |
| Lingual Braces | Adults needing complete invisibility | Hidden behind teeth, customizable | Higher cost, possible initial lisp |