For patients who need braces, the prospect of wearing uncomfortable and ugly metal braces for up to two years can be a daunting one. Luckily, advances in dental technology in the last twenty years have meant that here are now other options available to them.

Patients can now choose between a series of more discreet and comfortable metal braces and even have the option of invisible plastic retainers that are virtually invisible. One of the latest alternatives to conventional metal braces is the Inman aligner. This new aligner is as effective as a metal brace and far more discreet.

The aligner works by using the power of a coiled spring which is hidden on the tongue side of the teeth. This spring pushes the teeth at the side out, making room for the front teeth to be pushed forward and straightened. This extra room created by the aligner allows teeth to naturally straighten.

Although the aligner is not completely visible (it loses out on the discretion stakes to the clear plastic retainers) it is still far more discreet than an old fashioned metal brace. The only really visible part of the brace is a metal bar running across the front of the teeth. But what the Inman aligner lacks in discretion it makes up for with incredible speed. The Inman aligner shows results after only an astonishing six to sixteen weeks. A whole treatment rarely lasts longer than six months, which is 75 per cent shorter than both fixed metal braces and plastic retainers.

Like all orthodontic appliances, the Inman aligner will cause some discomfort when initially applied but this will fade after no more than a week. After this initial discomfort the aligner will be relatively painless.

Perfect for correcting minor overcrowding, the Inman aligner is the choice of straightener for many patients seeking to add the finishing touches to a smile. It is completely removable and so can be taken out fort important professional and social occasions. Ask a Central Leeds dentist about the Inman aligner and you could finally have your perfect smile.