Invisible braces are mostly used by adults and late teenagers because they enable dentists to straighten out teeth discretely. If you have crooked teeth or dental misalignments that you believe can be fixed with invisible braces, read on to find out everything you need to know about them.
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Invisible Braces: What are They?
Although they might be classified as a completely different treatment procedure altogether, invisible braces and traditional braces serve the same goal. They are both used for aligning or realigning crooked teeth conditions. However, what really sets the two treatments apart from each other are aesthetics and visibility. Depending on the kind of invisible aligner that you use, they can either be almost invisible, or even completely invisible.
Can Invisible Braces Treat All Types of Malocclusions?
Unfortunately, invisible braces cannot treat all malocclusions, which means that whether they can be used with any hope of success is variable. Chances of success depend on several factors such as the particular patient’s dental structure, age, and the severity of their condition. Then there is also the question of suitability as one cannot simply guess which type of invisible brace would be best suited to treat their specific condition. If you have misaligned teeth, book an appointment with a private dentist to seek professional guidance regarding invisible braces here on northwickmanordental.co.uk.
What are Clear Aligners
The exact mechanism may vary as there are multiple brands that manufacture clear aligners. Nevertheless, these are usually transparent trays that are fitted over the patient’s teeth and tightened by the dentist as needed. Clear aligners can be removed by the patient for cleaning, but a dentist may advise against it. Clear aligners can be seen from up close, but they mostly remain invisible at a distance.
What are Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are almost identical to traditional braces, but with one major difference. Unlike the metal wire which can clearly be seen, if someone smiles while wearing traditional braces, ceramic braces resemble the individual’s teeth in color, texture, and shade very closely, making them almost invisible.
Once again, ceramic braces can be seen from up close, but not from a distance. Unlike clear aligners though, these are permanent fixtures, which will only be removed after the treatment period is complete. The dentist/orthodontist will tighten/loosen it periodically, depending on progress and effect.
What are Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces are as close to an actual, invisible brace as braces can be. Since these are installed on the lingual surface, aka the back of the teeth, they truly cannot be seen from the front. Even a close-up view may not reveal them, provided that the patient is using braces designed to resemble the color and shade of their teeth.
Unfortunately, lingual braces come with several shortcomings making them unsuitable for severe conditions or in conditions that require frequent adjustments. As lingual braces are placed at the back of a patient’s teeth, they have limited adjustability and often take much longer than any other teeth alignment treatment procedure. Dentists may not recommend them in most instances.
