Braces Have Changed: What to Know about Traditional Braces and Clear Aligner Options

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Braces have come a long way, and there are now more options than ever in both style and materials.

Braces, clear dental aligners, and other orthodontic devices are medical devices, which means the FDA regulates them. Before companies can market these products in the United States, companies must meet the applicable legal requirements for safety and effectiveness. The FDA also keeps an eye on these devices after they hit the market to make sure they continue to meet the appropriate standards.

Thinking about braces? Here are common questions and answers to help you decide.

Q: Are braces just for kids?

A: According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today are adults. Teeth naturally shift throughout a person's life. This is a normal part of aging — everyday forces like chewing and changes in the jaw cause teeth to gradually move over time. So, while you may or may not have worn braces as a kid, you may still choose to explore teeth straightening as an adult.

Q: Why do I need to wear braces?

A: Braces straighten your teeth and help make them easier to clean. When teeth are crooked or crowded, it can be hard to brush and floss, which can lead to swollen and infected gums and other forms of dental problems. Straightening your teeth can help protect your oral health and give you a nice smile.

Q: How do traditional braces work?

A: Traditional braces are designed to gradually move teeth into a desired position. They usually consist of small brackets cemented to your teeth, connected by a wire, and held to the brackets by rubber bands. Your dentist or orthodontist regularly tightens the wire, gradually shifting your teeth and jaw.
After you’re done with braces, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend using a retainer to keep your teeth in place and preventing them from shifting back while the surrounding bone solidifies in its new place.

Q: Are there different types of braces other than metal?

A: Today’s braces come in different materials and styles. Traditional braces can be composed of metal, plastic, or ceramic brackets and can be made to match the color of your teeth. The rubber bands connecting the brackets also come in different colors. There are also lingual braces, which are a highly discreet orthodontic treatment option. They work exactly like traditional metal braces, but with one major difference: the brackets and wires are placed on the back of your teeth instead of the front. Because they are positioned on the inside of your mouth, they are virtually invisible to other people.

Q: Are clear dental aligners an alternative to traditional braces?

A: Clear dental aligners are another option to traditional braces. Clear dental aligners are removable and worn over your teeth to straighten them. A licensed practitioner, such as a dentist or orthodontist, will provide a series of custom-made aligners. You’ll wear each one for one to two weeks, and the total treatment time can take anywhere from six to 18 months.  This way, your teeth are gradually moved into the correct position according to your personal treatment plan. However, clear dental aligners may not work for everyone’s teeth. Your dentist or orthodontist will perform a dental exam to advise you on the kind of orthodontic treatment you need. Learn more about how the FDA approves clear dental aligners  .

Q: How long will I have to wear braces?

A: That depends on how much tooth correction your dentist or orthodontist thinks you need. An average treatment period is two years, but it may take more or less time.
There really is no “faster” method of straightening teeth. Orthodontics work by applying slow pressure that affects the bone surrounding a tooth to allow it to move. If movement is too rapid, tooth loss or a breakdown of the bone can occur.

Q: Is it hard to clean teeth if I wear braces or clear dental aligners?

A: It’s easy for food to get stuck in the braces, so you should be extra careful to keep your teeth clean and free of food material. Patients using clear dental aligners should remove aligners to eat, and it’s important to brush and floss afterwards. Not cleaning your teeth carefully can cause dental decay, swollen or bleeding gums, and may affect your overall oral health. Your dentist or orthodontist may recommend more frequent dental cleanings to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing your braces, rather than the usual twice a year.

Q: Should I avoid eating certain foods if I have braces?

A: You should avoid eating anything chewy or sticky, like gummy bears or chewing gum. Also, try not to eat hard candies or popcorn as these can damage the braces and prolong the time you must wear them.

Q. Can I report a problem with my braces or clear dental aligners to the FDA?

A: If you have a problem with an orthodontic device, you or your dentist can report it to MedWatch, the FDA’s medical product safety reporting program.