What’s the Difference Between Braces and a Plate?

Braces or orthodontic plates are the two main treatments that orthodontists use to straighten teeth or correct alignment in bites. Although both techniques involve the alignment of teeth, mechanisms of functionality differ.

Understanding the difference between plates and braces helps you or your child make an informed decision about orthodontic treatment.

What are Braces Used for in Orthodontics?

Braces are fixed devices used to realign teeth gradually. They consist of ceramic or metal brackets bonded to each tooth. An archwire holds the brackets in place while applying constant, mild force on the teeth. With repeated pressure, the bone remodels gradually to become correctly positioned. Orthodontists re-tighten the wire at intervals by making slight changes, which assist teeth in moving towards their best fit.

Depending on the case, additional components such as coil springs, expanders, or rubber bands are sometimes used to remedy bite anomalies and boost overall function..

Common Uses for Braces

Fix bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite).
Close gaps between teeth for a more even appearance.
Correct severe crowding by creating space for proper alignment.
Guide jaw growth in children to improve facial harmony and oral health.

Braces are a common option for individuals of all ages since they work well for simple and complicated orthodontic treatments. For any of the mentioned types of issues, a trusted orthodontist can help you.

What Dental Issues Can a Plate Fix?

Orthodontic plates, sometimes called dental plates, are acrylic removable plates for teeth that have springs or metal wires attached to them. An orthodontist takes a thorough imprint or digital scan of the patient’s teeth to create a suitable plate fitting. To make sure it fits snugly, the plate will be carefully put onto either the upper or lower teeth after it has been made. The patient is instructed on how to clean the plate, put it in and take it out, and follow the proper procedure.

In contrast to braces, plates are detachable and exert localised pressure on certain teeth or jaw growth.

Common Uses for Orthodontic Plates

Widening the upper jaw helps create space when a child’s jaw is too small for incoming teeth.
Extending the jaw provides more room for teeth to grow properly.
Correcting minor misalignments makes small adjustments without the need for full braces.
Holding teeth in place stabilises them after early orthodontic treatment.
Guiding jaw growth helps prevent severe misalignments in younger patients.
Fixing simple bite issues can improve minor bite problems.

Plates for teeth are most commonly used in children’s orthodontics, as their teeth and jaws are still developing. However, they are generally less effective than braces for complex misalignments

Are Braces or Plates More Comfortable to Wear?

Comfort is a major consideration when deciding between orthodontist plates and braces. Both treatments have different challenges and adjustments. Here’s a comparison table:

Braces	Orthodontic Plates
Temporary discomfort after adjustments, with soreness for a few days.	Mild discomfort at first but easier to adjust to over time.
It may irritate cheeks and lips, but wax can help.	Removable, making eating and cleaning easier.
Requires extra oral care to prevent plaque buildup.	It may affect speech initially, but improves with practice.

Dental plates might be a better choice if comfort and flexibility are your main concerns. But braces offer more complete treatment for extensive misalignment, which an expert orthodontist in Zetland can assist you with.

How Much Do Braces and Plates Typically Cost?

Orthodontic treatment costs vary depending on complexity, treatment duration, and location. Here’s a rough estimate of what you might pay in Australia:

Orthodontic Treatment	Complexity	Price (Estimated)
Metal Braces	Traditional alternative, effective for most misalignments, and commonly used.	AUD 6,000 – AUD 9,000
Plates for Teeth	Affordable, ideal for minor adjustments or children, and works best for early intervention.	AUD 1,000 – AUD 4,000
Ceramic Braces	Pricier and more visible than metal but blend in better and need extra care to prevent staining.	AUD 6,500 – AUD 9,500
Lingual Braces	Sit behind the teeth and are discreet, but they take longer to adjust to and require more upkeep.	AUD 9,500 – AUD 15,000
Clear Aligners	Nearly invisible, suitable for minor to moderate cases, and removable for convenience.	AUD 6,500 – AUD 9,500

Braces are more costly because they are more complex and take longer to treat. Orthodontist plates for teeth are less expensive but are not necessarily a replacement for braces.

Can Adults Use Plates for Orthodontic Treatment?

Although orthodontic plates are mainly for children, some adults can be considered for plates in situations like:

Minor tooth movement: Plates can correct small movements without requiring braces if only minor changes are required. This is best for situations with minimal spacing or mild misalignment.
Post-treatment retention: Plates are sometimes used as retainers following braces or aligners to avoid teeth reverting to their original positions.
Jaw expansion before treatment: A few adults will need plates to expand their upper jaw before more extensive orthodontic treatment, including braces or surgery.

Major vs. Minor Cases in Adults

Adults with mild crowding, small gaps, or slight misalignment can opt for plates, which are more affordable and less invasive. For severe misalignment or bite issues, braces or clear aligners are typically needed for long-term results, with plates serving as a preliminary step.

For most extensive cases, braces or clear aligners are the more effective and permanent treatment.

How Long Do Braces and Plates Take to Fix Dental Issues?

The patient’s age determines the length of treatment, the severity of the problem, and how well they adhere to their orthodontist’s recommendations. But here are some estimations:

	Braces	Orthodontic Plates
Mild Case	12-18 months. Simple misalignments require less time to correct.	6-12 months. Small adjustments may be achieved in a relatively short time.
Moderate Case	18-24 months. More extensive corrections require longer wear.	6-18 months. Expansion takes time to allow the bone structure to adjust.
Severe Case	24-36 months. Major bite issues and crowding take the longest to fix.	Variable (often lifelong nighttime wear). Retainers help maintain teeth in their corrected positions.

Braces vs. Plates: Which Is Right for You?

The intricacy of dental issues, degree of comfort, expense, and length of treatment are some factors influencing the decision between orthodontic plates and braces. Here, we examine these elements so you can make an informed choice.

Effectiveness: Braces are better for complex cases, while plates are better suited for minor tooth movements.
Comfort: Braces are irritating, while plates tend to be more comfortable.
Removability: Braces are fixed in place, but plates are removable.
Maintenance: Oral hygiene is very important for the use of braces, while the plates can be kept clean very easily.
Cost: Braces are more expensive, whereas plates are more affordable.
Best for: Braces are generally for all people, especially at a younger age, whereas plates are best for little ones or minor problems.

Ultimately, your choice between braces and orthodontist plates depends on your requirements, financial situation, and goals. When in doubt, the best course of action is to speak with an orthodontist.

Need Expert Advice on Your Orthodontic Treatment?

Choosing between braces and plates can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.

At Orthoworx, we offer personalised consultations to help you determine the best treatment for your child or for adult orthodontics. Book an appointment with our specialists and start your journey to a straighter, healthier smile today!

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