Modern orthodontic treatment offers a lot more than just fixed metal braces. Tooth straightening treatment can be beneficial to patients of all ages – in fact, it is never too later to improve the alignment of your teeth.
Metal braces remain a staple of orthodontic treatment for children and teenagers, who often enjoy the option to colour-customise their brace. But for adults, the thought of a fixed metal appliance that is all-too-obvious to anyone and everyone they meet can be a significant treatment barrier.
At Enhancedental in Leeds, part of the practice ethos is that dental treatment should, as far as possible, fit around patients’ lifestyles. Both discreet braces and clear, removable aligners are available to straighten the teeth of adults and of more self-conscious teenagers.
It’s worth bearing in mind that the benefits of any type of orthodontic are more than just aesthetic. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, with fewer hard to reach areas. This can slash your risk of both tooth decay and gum disease.
Issues with the bite – the way the jaws meet each other – can cause problems with biting and chewing food, and sometimes result in excess wear and tear of specific teeth. Many discreet orthodontic appliances can improve the position of the bite and get rid of these issues.
Subtle fixed appliances
There are a number of subtle braces available, and an orthodontist will help to match the best one to your needs.
Lingual braces
These braces are made from metal, but are attached to the rear of the teeth, rendering them invisible in everyday life. They can correct a wider range of issues than some cosmetic brace systems. Some brands are made from gold alloy, which is excellent if you have a nickel allergy.
FastBraces
Available with clear and tooth-coloured components, these braces are uniquely designed to move both the roots and crowns of the teeth together, significantly reducing treatment times.
Clear braces
Clear braces may be for rapid cosmetic correction of the front teeth, or for improving more extensive issues. They blend in well with the natural colour of the teeth, and are stain-resistant.
