Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry which involves straightening the teeth and realigning the jaw to improve a person’s dental health and appearance. Orthodontic treatment can correct different bite issues, close gapped teeth and straighten the teeth.
Orthodontic treatment consists of different options like braces which involve having a fixed appliance on the teeth for a specific period or involving removable aligners.
Most people undergo orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons, but it also helps improve dental and general health. Having misaligned teeth makes the cleaning process difficult, which increases the risk of dental issues like gum disease or tooth decay.
Orthodontic treatments are available in different forms. You have fixed and removable appliances to choose from, depending on your orthodontic problem. Below is an overview of the common types of orthodontic treatments.
Invisible braces
Technological advancements led to the introduction of virtually invisible braces which allow people to straighten their teeth discreetly. The less conspicuous types of braces include the following.
- InvisalignInvisalign treatment involves a series of virtually invisible aligners. The aligners are custom-made and removable. You will wear each set of the Invisalign aligners for two weeks for a minimum of 20 – 22 hours daily until your teeth gradually move to their perfect positions and you can enjoy Invisalign Before and After effects really fast. Different types of Invisalign aligners are available. There is a variant called Invisalign Teen, which is suitable for teens. This aligner has an indicator which changes from a blue colour to ensure teens wear them for the recommended number of hours. Another variant is Invisalign i7 made specifically to correct minor orthodontic issues within three months.
- Lingual bracesLingual braces fitted on the inner side of the teeth, where the tongue rests. Different types of lingual braces are available, and you can decide to get the one that straightens only the front 6 – 8 teeth.
- Ceramic bracesCeramic braces use tooth-coloured or transparent brackets to move the teeth. The nature of the brackets and wires makes this treatment more subtle compared to metal braces. The treatment lasts for about 18 – 24 months, the same as metal braces.
- Cosmetic straighteningCosmetic teeth straightening focuses on only the front 6 – 8 teeth, which are the most visible. Cosmetic teeth straightening can achieve the desired result within six months because of the technique used. They are also more discreet than metal braces.
Traditional fixed braces
- Fixed metal bracesThey are the most popular teeth straightening option because of their effectiveness. Teens and adults use metal braces for different orthodontic issues, including complex cases. The treatment involves attaching brackets to the teeth and connecting them with an archwire which slowly moves the teeth to correct alignment.
- Self-ligating bracesSelf-ligating braces are like traditional metal braces but use a spring clip instead of elastic bands. This reduces the friction between the archwire and brackets. Self-ligating braces do not get discoloured as fast as traditional braces because they are easy to clean. They also allow more movement, so they give less discomfort.
Retainers
Retainers are technically not an orthodontic treatment, but an important device used after orthodontic treatment. They help keep the straightened teeth in their perfect position for a long time. After your braces treatment, you need to wear retainers to prevent a relapse. Otherwise, your teeth may shift again and cause misalignment according to this general dentist in Newmarket ON.
It usually takes a while for the elastic fibres found in the gum to settle into their new position after straightening teeth, so to prevent them from pulling your teeth out of alignment before they stabilise, you need retainers. Wearing retainers for the rest of your life ensures your teeth remain in their new position.
- Removable retainersRemovable retainers are like clear gum shields custom-made to fit your teeth and keep them in their new position. The duration of wearing retainers for every patient is different and usually depends on the person’s previous orthodontic issue, but most people wear them at night.
- Fixed retainersFixed retainers consist of a stainless steel wire, which the orthodontist attaches behind the front teeth, so people do not see them except you open your mouth. It is easy for most people to forget they have fixed retainers, but you need to be careful about brushing with fixed retainers.
If you have orthodontic problems that require treatment, contact Dental Clinic London today to get started with a suitable Invisalign treatment in London.
