Invisible braces refer to any
temporary orthodontic method that is less apparent than traditional dental
braces. It likewise generally describes processes such as
"Invisalign" that are popular for correcting aesthetic problems with
one's dental appearance.
In this post, we will go over
the different types of invisible braces and how they work. Only then can you
decide which method is right for you. As you will soon realise, each type
involves different methods for straightening teeth resulting in various degrees
of discreetness.
Ceramic Dental braces
Ceramic braces use brackets
and cords to correct teeth, similar to typical braces. Nonetheless, the
brackets in ceramic braces are clear, so they're much less visible than
conventional metal braces. Also, the wire used on such braces is
tooth-coloured, which make them less noticeable.
Ceramic braces can take up to
six months to provide noticeable results. They work so quickly because they are
only designed to rectify aesthetic issues with front teeth. As a result, these
braces require fewer dental appointments than standard metal braces.
While ceramic braces have
their benefits in terms of aesthetics and convenience, they naturally cost more
than conventional braces. That said, experts for dental care in Canberra often discount these treatments to help patients
manage cost.
Clear Aligners
Another good option for
invisible braces come in the form of clear aligners which are essentially
removable trays made from plastic or ceramic product that fits over teeth. The
plates exert mild pressure over the teeth, which helps to realign them over
time.
Perhaps the most popular
brand of clear aligners is called Invisalign. That said, other brands do exist
with some minor variations. While most dental clinics offer them as an in-chair
treatment, others can be purchased directly online, albeit at a higher risk of
failure. For best results, it would be best to undergo a direct consultation
with an orthodontist who can personally examine your teeth beforehand.
One thing that people should
know about clear aligners is that they do take longer to straighten out teeth
compared to metal braces. On average, it can take at least nine months to
complete the treatment. During this time, patients can go through 18 to 30
trays that gradually move teeth into the desired alignment. The advantage of
clear aligners is, naturally, that they are "invisible." There are no
braces or cords, so they are much more discreet.
The drawback to clear
aligners is their cost. On average, patients spend around $5000 for the said
treatment. Such braces can also stain if neglected and require cleaning supplies
which adds up to the cost.
Lingual Braces
A more recent innovation
designed to address the demand for discreet dental braces come in the form of
lingual braces. The latter offers lots of benefits over conventional dental
braces without visual drawbacks.
Similar to traditional
braces, lingual braces use a bracket-and-wire system to line up teeth and
rectify bite issues. The difference is that linguistic dental braces are
positioned on the back surface area of the teeth rather than the front. As a
result, these braces are practically invisible when viewed from the front.
The benefit of lingual braces
is that they exert the same pressure as traditional metal braces and just as
effective. This makes them suitable for a wider variety of conditions that
involve issues with teeth alignment. Lingual braces are likewise simpler for
wearers to adapt to than typical dental braces for sports or playing wind
tools.
Of course, lingual braces
have its share of drawbacks. For one thing, they are expensive; perhaps
the more expensive approach for invisible braces. Another disadvantage is that
lingual braces require a significant amount of time spent in the dental clinic.
Lingual braces are considerably more challenging to install and maintain.
Conclusion
So there you have it -- the different kinds of
invisible braces and how they work. Are
invisible braces expensive? You bet,
but most people would agree that the results are well worth it. If you are
interested in any of the methods mentioned above, then you would do well to
arrange a consultation with an orthodontist to learn more.
