More and more people are opting to have their teeth artificially straightened by orthodontic methods. More often than not this involves having some form of orthodontic brace fitted to reposition teeth. Twenty years ago, patients were limited in their options, with uncomfortable and unseemly metal braces being the only realistic option. While these braces were sturdy and effective, they were often too much of a sacrifice for many patients and could be especially troublesome for patients in their emotionally difficult teenage years. Thankfully, dental technology has advanced in huge strides in the last two decades and there are now braces available that offer incredibly fast and discreet treatment.
At the top end of the discretion scale is Invisalign invisible braces. Made of one millimetre thick clear plastic, Invisailgn braces were introduced in 1999 by Align technologies. By using a series of these retainers consecutively, each with minor adjustments, teeth can be straightened without anybody ever even realising you are wearing a brace. Invisalign braces are completely removable, and so do not cause any embarrassing messy eating and can be taken out for important social or professional occasions.
For patients seeking fast acting treatment there is the Inman aligner. Inman aligners sit behind the teeth with only a small metal bar visible across the front of the teeth. By utilising the force of a coiled spring, the aligner simultaneously pushes out the teeth at the side creating room for the front teeth to straighten. Results can be seen after only an incredible six weeks. Inman aligners are also completely removable.
Similarly fast is the Six-Month Smile treatment which promises straight teeth in, you’ve guessed it, six-months. Offering a more comfortable straightening treatment, the Six-Month Smile brace is constructed of thin, tooth-coloured nickel-titanium wires, which again are very discreet.
Even fixed metal braces are smaller and more efficient. Damon braces are fixed like the old ‘train-track’ braces, but by using their revolutionary sliding mechanism do not require any uncomfortable brace tightening. Damon braces also do not require patients to have multiple extractions before treatment starts, as was the case with the old fixed metal braces. With brackets made of ceramic and clear plastic they are also far less visibly intrusive.
These are just some of the options patients now have when considering having a brace fitted. Having a beautiful smile is something everybody wants. Now it can be achieved without having to wear ugly and irritating metal braces for months or even years. Ask a Central Leeds dentist to advise you on which brace would work best for you.
Tags: discreet braces, inman alingers, Invisalign, orthodontic
