Most people think of metal ‘train-track’ braces when they’re told that they could benefit from Orthodontic treatment. Many people are still put off having braces because of how the look and how long the treatment takes to complete. However, metal braces aren’t the only straightening system that can achieve a straight smile. There are different options for you to explore and discover which is best for you. There are discreet straightening treatments available which allow you to achieve a beautifully, straight and healthy smile without feeling self-conscious during the time you have braces on.
If crooked teeth and gaps in your smile are constantly getting your self confidence down, we firmly believe that orthodontic treatment is the best choice. Teeth straightening doesn’t impact your oral health negatively and there’s no need for us to remove part of your teeth to accommodate the treatment – as is the case for veneers and crowns. The end result makes full use of the smile that you were born with and enhances it with your natural teeth. The time it takes to move your teeth to a stunning straight position is more than worth it.
Can I have braces?
Braces can correct a whole host of orthodontic issues. Typically, the best time for orthodontic treatment is when our adult teeth have just finished growing and the bone is more pliant for movement. That’s why most of us have braces when we’re teenagers as it’s the optimum time during your dental development. Plus it means you’ll start your adulthood with a straight smile and fewer orthodontic issues to cause you problems later in life. That being said, adults can still benefit from orthodontic treatment. It just means that treatment takes longer than it would if you were younger and any NHS options are off the table.
The best person to speak to if you’re looking into having braces is your dentist. As part of your on-going dental treatment, they will be assessing bite issues surrounding the position of your teeth. You can discuss orthodontic treatment with them. Alternatively, you can always arrange to have a free consultation to review all straightening treatments that can achieve your smile expectations.
The 5 Types Of Braces Explained
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are still the most common form of orthodontic treatment down to their versatility and affordability. Advances in dentistry and orthodontics have made braces much more comfortable and compact than they were in the past. Metal braces work by fixing metal brackets directly to the surface of the tooth using a dental adhesive. A wire is threaded through the braces, interconnecting them. Elastic ties secure the wires in place, which are available in an array of colours. The wire is responsible for the gentle forces that move each tooth gradually into a new position. Regular appointments are therefore necessary so the wire can be adjusted, making sure that the brace is always at work.
Ceramic braces
A more discreet option for metal braces, ceramic braces are less noticeable during the treatment. Ceramic braces are a good aesthetic choice which delivers the same precise, accurate results as metal braces. As they are fixed braces, they are constantly at work so get the job done faster than aligners. Ceramic braces are colour-matched to blend in with your teeth with tooth coloured wires. These braces are a top choice for younger patients who need orthodontic treatment.
Self-ligating braces
While they look very similar to metal braces, self-ligating braces use a different method to straighten teeth and guide them to a better position in the mouth. Rather than use elastic bands to secure the wires, self-ligating braces use clips. They are sleeker and more compact in design to traditional braces. They also require less appointments for adjustments. Self-ligating braces are also easier to maintain due to their design, making brushing a lot more straight-forward.
Lingual braces
Not all fixed braces are positioned in front of the teeth. Lingual braces are placed on the back surfaces of the teeth, completely hidden while they get to work. No one will know that you have braces, making them a popular choice for patients who have been put off having orthodontic treatment because of how noticeable braces can be. In terms of design and application, lingual braces are the most complex as they are designed to fit as seamlessly as possible to the reverse side of your teeth. Each bracket is unique, made to fit against the shape of your tooth. Fitting lingual braces takes a pair of expert hands.
At De-ientes Dental, our orthodontist has ample experience with all methods of teeth straightening, including lingual braces. So if you wish to straighten your smile and benefit from having invisible braces, speak to us or book in a free consultation.
Clear aligners
Invisalign is steadily becoming a house-hold name due to its surge in popularity as a teeth straightening treatment. Clear aligners like Invisalign and Spark aligners work just like braces in how they use gentle forces to gradually move teeth towards a straighter position. Clear aligners can address issues such as crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, overlapping teeth, overbites and underbites. Using a series of aligners, the treatment works through wearing a pair of aligners for two to three weeks before moving onto the next set. There are fewer appointments needed as you’re provided with each series of aligners once treatment commences so you can carry the treatment out yourself without needing to have any adjustments made.
Clear aligners are near invisible when worn, making them an attractive teeth straightening option for those who are put off visible braces. They are also removable so you can take them out when you eat, meaning there’s no need to change your diet or worry about brushing around fiddly braces. Aligners are easy to clean and look after. In order for them to work, you have to wear them 22 hours a day.
How to know which is the best treatment for you
Each brace type comes with its pros and cons. If the price is the deciding factor, you should check if your dentist or orthodontist offers finance options. At De-eintes Dental, we have 0% interest finance as a choice for paying for your treatment. You can spread the cost over monthly increments, making straightening options like Invisalign more affordable.
You will also need to factor in your orthodontic need. Not all braces can treat every issue so it’s recommended that you speak to your dentist before making a choice about which brace you think is best for you. If you have a mild case where only a few teeth are letting the side down, you’ll have more options open for you.
To find out more about what brace types could help you achieve the dream straight smile, why not book a free consultation. You can book online here.
