Difference Between Cosmetic and Orthodontic Braces

Dental braces come in numerous shapes, sizes and styles but they all have one thing in common. They are designed to make teeth look, act and feel better.

Whether it’s to straighten teeth, realign crooked teeth or close a gap between teeth, there is a dental brace to solve the problem.

The nature of the dental issue will determine what type of brace will be required to resolve the problem and there are two options available:

• Cosmetic braces
• Orthodontic braces

For the patient wearing the braces, it may seem irrelevant which type of braces are used. But the cause of the dental problem dictates whether orthodontic or cosmetic braces will be the most effective solution.

Orthodontics 

Orthodontics focuses primarily on issues of misalignment. This is not confined to crooked teeth but also includes misalignment of the jaw which may be affecting the growth of teeth.

Misalignment of the jaw can also lead to facial pains, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), headaches, sore throats and sinus issues. An orthodontist is also qualified to carry out oral surgery should the need arise.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on how the teeth look and how to correct any issues without the need for surgery. Cosmetic dentistry is often the simplest solution for misaligned, damaged or crooked teeth.

Treatment can include the use of dental implants, crowns, veneers, teeth whitening and bonding as well as braces.

Orthodontic Braces or Cosmetic Braces?

Despite the different areas of expertise, there is some overlap in treatments for gapped, crowded or misaligned teeth. Braces and cosmetic procedures (like veneers) may be combined to create the Hollywood smile.

A complete smile makeover can be accomplished in a few visits for cosmetic procedures. If, however, the problem lies in the roots of the teeth and the jaw, it will probably be necessary for an orthodontist to prescribe treatment.

Cosmetic Braces

A cosmetic dentist may recommend veneers rather than braces as these can produce an effective smile makeover in a matter of weeks. However, veneers are expensive and are glued to the tooth’s surface. In addition, veneers only last from five to ten years at which point they will need to be replaced.

Cosmetic braces will slowly guide the teeth into their desired position and are a better, long-term solution.

Usually less noticeable than orthodontic braces (or even invisible) these braces are usually made of ceramic, clear plastic or a composite material. They are generally used for minor issues such as crowded, protruding or unevenly spaced teeth and are particularly effective for misaligned and crooked teeth.

Orthodontic Braces

Although orthodontic braces can be used to treat the same dental issues as cosmetic braces, they are usually required where the root cause of the problem is deep in the gums or in the jawbone.

An orthodontic brace is permanently attached to the teeth and adjusted over time to gradually shift the problem teeth into the correct position.

They are ideally suited to situations where a major repositioning of the teeth is required such as with overbites and underbites. Orthodontic braces are usually only used after the last permanent teeth have appeared and are generally unsuitable for younger children except on rare occasions.

Final Thoughts

Orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry can be use in tandem to give you a beautiful Hollywood smile.

All braces perform basically the same function of straightening problem teeth but in different ways.

It would be wrong to think of cosmetic braces as a “quick fix” although they are usually easier to fit, maintain and produce relatively quick results. In many cases, the braces can be seated on top of the teeth rather than permanently attached to the teeth.

Aligners are plastic braces, and can even be removed for easier cleaning or for special occasions.

Orthodontic braces, on the other hand, are usually firmly wired to the teeth. They do have the advantage of being more effective for a wider range of dental issues.

If all that is required is a simple smile makeover, and there are no serious underlying issues with the teeth, cosmetic dentistry is the best option. Orthodontic dentistry is a better choice if a long-lasting solution to problem teeth is the objective.