Getting braces might not feel like the most glamorous decision, but it can be very important for keeping teeth healthy. People can – and do – turn to orthodontic treatment at almost every stage in life. In fact, of all the people who currently wear braces, almost 20% of them are adults.
The field of orthodontics has developed massively in recent years with more options than ever before when it comes to teeth re-alignment. The traditional metal brace is no longer your only choice. There is a growing demand for ‘invisible’ braces, which we offer from both of our popular practices in Bromsgrove and Solihull. Practice Principal, Mark Forty specialises in lingual orthodontics with over 15 years’ experience in the field.
To help you out, we’ve broken down the orthodontic jargon and reviewed the most popular brace types, giving you all the information you need for your journey to a brand new smile.
Invisalign Braces and Clear Aligners
Invisalign is the most advanced clear brace on the market today, suitable for treating slight overcrowding to more complex straightening issues.
Your orthodontist will create 3D treatment plans using x-rays and scans of your teeth in order to create your Invisalign braces, before trimming the brace to fit your gum line.
Unlike traditional metal braces which are fixed to your teeth, Invisalign are a series of clear aligners that you wear over the top of your teeth. They are made from a durable, clear plastic so they’re practically invisible to everyone else. They’re also strong enough to withstand any bending or cracking.
Many patients have found Invisalign braces more comfortable than traditional braces, and they are increasingly popular as they are the only removeable brace. That means you can continue to enjoy all the foods you love without any restrictions.
Each aligner is designed to gently push your teeth into their new, corrected position. You will need to change your aligner every 1 to 2 weeks, but you can do this at home.
Hidden Lingual Braces
Incognito or eBrace systems (lingual braces) are the hidden brace options popular in our Solihull and Bromsgrove practices. They move your teeth without anyone even knowing you’re wearing a brace.
The brace is discreetly fixed on the back of the teeth instead of the front like conventional ‘train track’ braces. By fitting the brace to the tongue-side of your mouth, it allows people to go about their daily routine without feeling self-conscious about their brace.
Suitable for children, teens and adults who want to correct the position of their teeth, Incognito braces are customised to deliver specific results for each patient, and are an ideal choice if you want to straighten your teeth and re-align your jaw without anyone knowing.
Treatment times vary between 12 to 24 months with many patients starting to see results after a matter of weeks.
When your brace is removed, the backs of your teeth are cleaned and polished to remove any leftover glue, before a permanent wire is fitted to help hold the teeth in their new position. You will also be given a retainer once the brace is removed.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, but they use clear or tooth-coloured brackets rather than grey or silver. Many people opt for ceramic braces because they’re less noticeable on your teeth than metal braces as they have smoother brackets with rounded edges. This means they lie flatter against your teeth, making them more comfortable and less bulky.
Fitting your ceramic brace is a relatively simple process, taking no more than approximately one hour (half an hour for each arch).
The duration you’re required to wear your brace may vary, but as a guide, patients can expect to wear their brace for 12 to 18 months.
Just like fitting your ceramic brace, the removal is also a very simple, pain-free process, taking just 15 minutes (approximately).
Metal Braces
Metal braces are a traditional, durable and affordable way to achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. Traditional ‘train-track’ braces are a thing of the past – we’ve evolved! Modern metal braces are now smaller than ever before and more comfortable to wear with strong adhesives.
Upon fitting your brace your orthodontist will prepare your teeth adding bonding ‘glue’ that attaches the metal brackets to the surface of the outside of your teeth, before setting the bond. A wire is then placed through the braces with small elastic bands on either side.
You will need to have your braces adjusted by your orthodontist every 6 to 8 weeks to ensure your teeth are moving correctly into the desired position. At each appointment the elastic bands may be changed and a new wire put on.
This is a very subtle and gradual process that takes approximately 12 to 18 months.
It’s important to remember that braces aren’t forever and there is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. Our patients feel confident about themselves and most importantly about their teeth.
We all know what it feels like to want a straighter smile; it builds confidence and makes you happier in yourself. At Orthodontics For You, our friendly team of specialists are on hand to help you feel as comfortable and as confident as possible, one smile at a time!
What are you waiting for? Why not book a virtual consultation today!