braces and invisalign

Few people are lucky enough to be born with perfectly aligned teeth. But for the rest of us we have a chance to achieve that through Braces or Invisalign. Crooked teeth can be a real problem, no matter how old you are. The biggest blow is to self-esteem because mal-aligned and unusually placed teeth are considered unattractive. Orthodontic treatment helps in the correcting teeth crowding, correcting your bite so that the upper and lower teeth meet evenly and also it improves your entire appearance. Braces and Invisalign are both very popular treatment options to achieve straighter teeth and a healthier mouth.

Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten your teeth without braces. It uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth without metal or wires hence providing a discreet and convenient option for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. An easy way to describe them is that “Invisalign are like contact lenses for teeth”. 

 

1. What are the different types of braces?

- The traditional type of braces are the metallic ones where the wire is shaped into the ideal position and then threaded between metallic brackets which are cemented to the front of the teeth. Over time, the wire will return to the original, ideal position, moving the teeth along with it to achieve the desired result. The newer types of braces that are being preferred by teenagers and adults alike are the ceramic braces which reduce the unsightly appearance of metallic brackets since the ceramic closely matches the color of the teeth. They are just as strong as metallic braces and don’t stain. These brackets are complimented by white metal or clear plastic ties to further create the impression of clear or less visible braces.  It is also possible to completely hide the braces by fitting the brackets on the inside surfaces of teeth and these are called lingual braces. Apart from the obvious appeal that these braces are not seen, they also do not rub against the lips. However they can cause considerable discomfort to the tongue and make speech and cleaning difficult. 

 

2. Why is straightening my teeth important?

- Mal-aligned teeth are not only unsightly but also make cleaning your teeth and gums difficult. This can result in tooth and gum infection. Braces and Invisalign can prevent-

  • tooth decay

  • gum disease

  • tooth loss

  • speech difficulties

  • difficulty in chewing and eating

  • abnormal enamel wear

  • jaw problems

 

3. How long do I have to wear braces?

- On average most people wear braces for 1-3 years depending on growth and severity of mal-alignment . It also is affected by your cooperation including maintaining good oral hygiene, the right diet and regular follow-up appointments. 

 

4. Can adults wear braces?

- It is natural for teeth to shift position as we age, when we lose or wear down our teeth, or if gum problems develop. Sometimes that means people who have had orthodontic treatment as a child and haven’t worn their retainers as instructed may require further orthodontic treatment as an adult. Braces and Invisalign are extremely effective for adults with alignment issues. In fact, 20% of people with braces are over the ages of 18. 

At Summit Dental, we have seen hesitation among adults to seek orthodontic care because the thought of visible braces is unappealing. People are concerned that braces might have an unwanted impact, for example, by making them self-conscious at work or impacts their social life. Thanks to modern technology, there are a wide array of discreet options available. Call us at 9986947722/ 08023340207 or email us at summitdentalclinic@gmail.com for an appointment with our braces specialist (orthodontist).

 

5. What should I expect when getting braces?

- The braces specialist (orthodontist) will first asses your bite, alignment and obtain photos and X-rays to determine which treatment option is the best for you. Once the course of action is discusses, the orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth so that custom orthodontic appliance can be made. At the next appointment, the appliance will be fitted and you will be provided with proper care instructions. Initially you may experience some minor pain, discomfort and speech difficulty. However this will subside and disappear after two weeks. You will then need to come for regular follow-up appointments till the desired result is achieved.

 

6. How does Invisalign work?

- Invisalign uses clear removable aligners to straighten your teeth without wires and brackets. The specialist at Summit Dental fabricates the aligners through a combination of technical knowledge and 3-D computer imaging technology. These aligners are clear so that no one can tell that you are straightening your teeth. You should wear each set of aligners for about two weeks and 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink, brush and floss. You can brush and floss your teeth like normal and there are no dietary restrictions not to mention there is reduced risk of tooth decay and staining.  As we replace each aligner with the next in series, your teeth will move-little by little, week by week- until they have straightened into the final desired position. You will have to visit out specialist every 6 weeks to ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned. The total treatment time averages between 9-15 months , but this varies from case to case.

For more information visit- https://www.invisalign.com/how-invisalign-works or contact us at 99869 47722 / 080 2334 0207/ summitdentalclinic@gmail.com