Mini braces – how do they work?

Many of us recall wearing huge, clunky metal braces growing up. They practically covered our teeth and were like magnets for food. Eating in public was more stress than it was worth. It was easy to become self-conscious of how your teeth appeared because of your braces. Fortunately for our children, better options exist that will not cause such emotional distress. Mini braces are one of those options.

Mini braces work just like traditional braces, they just look better! Mini braces allow us to say “Goodbye” to the days of “metal mouth”. Mini braces are 30% smaller than traditional metal braces and are just as strong. They use the same technology as the larger version.  Metal brackets are attached to the front of your teeth and metal arch wires attached to the brackets move the teeth. The mini braces are also made of stronger stainless steel than the traditional metal braces, therefore you are not compromising the strength for the reduction in size.

The most important characteristic of metal braces for the patient is the size. They are substantially less noticeable than traditional braces and much easier to maintain. The braces themselves are smaller, so they attract less food and other particles like larger braces do. Another great benefit is that the smaller size causes less discomfort to the inside of your mouth.

Teens love the ability to change the colors of the ligature ties that go around the brackets. The elastics come in a variety of colors. Teens love to choose their school colors, favorite colors, or change them up during the holidays. This can be done during a routine visit with the dentist or orthodontist.

Mini braces are only one of several new technologies available for orthodontic treatment. Depending on your specific treatment needs and your insurance coverage, mini braces may be the correct option for you. To determine which treatment option is best for you, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. You will be glad that you did.