There are several reasons why your teeth might grow crooked or appear overcrowded. Genetics, the shape and size of your jaw, disease, trauma, and habits like thumbsucking can all affect the position of your teeth.
But just because your teeth are in those positions now doesn’t mean they have to stay there. Braces and aligners are effective ways to address orthodontic problems, whatever your age. Best of all, there are lots of options to suit your lifestyle and dental needs.
With so many different types of braces and aligners, how do you know which type is best for you?
Today, we are going to talk about the different orthodontic treatment options available at Dental Suite and discuss how they work their magic.
How Do Braces and Aligners Work?
Teeth straightening has been with us for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Egyptians both worked out that applying gentle pressure to the teeth for extended periods can move them.
Of course, those ancient civilizations didn’t have the best tools for the job, and it was centuries before the fixed metal brace came along.
These days, there are lots of appliances that are comfortable and effective, but they all work the same way; they create a force on the teeth and slowly move them. Using the latest techniques and technology, we can plan the entire journey each tooth will make to create perfectly straight smiles.
Damon Braces
Traditional fixed braces use a series of metal brackets fixed to your teeth. A metal wire passes through these brackets. This wire is held in place by tiny elastic bands. The pressure from the wire makes the teeth move, and the tension is adjusted periodically to progress the treatment.
Damon braces are similar; however, the design is improved. Instead of elastics holding the wire in place, the brackets include a sliding door system. This not only makes adjustments quicker and easier, but also reduces the treatment lengths with less friction. You can choose between metal or clear braces.
Lingual Braces
Ordinarily, fixed braces are attached to the fronts of your teeth. Lingual braces; however, are hidden from view and are fixed onto the backs of your teeth.
Lingual braces are just as effective as traditional appliances; however, they are more discreet. We offer three different types of lingual braces; a self-ligating system that works like Damon braces, a comprehensive option for complex cases, and a six month treatment for cosmetic fixes.
Invisalign
The clear aligner was invented in the late 1990s, and has really grown in popularity over the last two decades. Using a removable plastic tray that you wear like a mouthguard, it’s possible to use force to gently straighten your teeth. Invisalign is a world-leading clear aligner system.
The beauty of Invisalign is that because it’s clear, it’s subtle. Not only that, but you can take your aligner out while you’re eating so you don’t have to worry about food getting trapped in your appliance.
Over your treatment, you’ll change your bespoke aligner every couple of weeks. Each new aligner is perfectly designed to continue your smile transformation.
In addition to Invisalign, we also offer Smilelign, which works in a similar way.
6 Month Smiles
For mild cosmetic teeth straightening, 6 Month Smiles gets the job done quickly. Ths system works like traditional fixed braces; however, it only adjusts the more prominent front teeth
Not only is the treatment quick, there are fewer appointments needed.
Inman Aligner
The Inman aligner is an adjustment removable appliance that provides quick, cost-effective results. Made from a combination of metal and plastic with titanium springs that create the right tension, Inman aligners are great for simple cosmetic adjustments. Just like Invisalign and Smilelign, you can remove your aligner to eat.
Braces and Aligners at Dental Suite
With clinics in Leicester and Loughborough offering a wide range of orthodontic treatments, we’ll help you match the appliance with the desired outcome.
Call us today to schedule your consultation.
