2 Discreet Orthodontic Options
Having your teeth properly aligned can be life-changing. Orthodontic devices can alleviate pain from eating while having teeth that are too crowded and misaligned. In addition, your appearance can be completely transformed when misaligned teeth are straightened.
If you are considering the orthodontic correction of your misaligned teeth, there are a variety of options from which you may be allowed to choose, even if you desire a discreet appliance. Here are a couple options to consider.
Ceramic Self-ligating Braces
Ceramic braces that are self-ligating are still tooth-colored, so they are not easily noticed after they are applied. Additionally, the ceramic, self-ligating brackets offer quite a few benefits.
When compared to traditional braces, ceramic braces with self-ligating brackets straighten the teeth faster and with less discomfort. Much of the discomfort experienced from braces is due to the amount of force applied to coax the teeth into proper alignment. With traditional braces, more force is needed than the amount of aligning power required with self-ligating braces because traditional braces must overcome the counterproductive force of friction emitted by the elastic bands.
Self-ligating braces do not require elastic bands to hold the archwire in place against the brackets. Instead, they have tiny holes within the brackets. These holes are like small tunnels through which the archwire is fed. Without the elastic bands, the opposing friction is practically eliminated, so much less aligning force is needed to shift the teeth into position.
In addition to the reduction in treatment time and the increase in comfort, fewer orthodontic visits are required throughout the treatment process.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are also difficult to see when worn. The aligners are made of stiff plastic and rest in the mouth like a mouthguard. Unlike many other orthodontic appliances, clear plastic aligners can be removed as desired. Thus, you can enjoy your meals and brush your teeth without having to navigate around the aligners. Nevertheless, the aligners should be left out of the mouth for no more than a couple of hours daily.
Before your aligners can be fabricated, a mold or impression of your mouth must be taken. A number of sets of aligners are produced to be used during your treatment process. You wear each set for a few weeks and then progress to the next set within the prescribed plan.
To learn about more orthodontic options that may be suitable for your teeth, schedule an appointment with an orthodontist in your area.