Braces – the dreaded curse of our teenage years. We all remember the kids who had a mouth full of metal, and smiles like Jaws out of James Bond’s Moonraker. They gleamed silver when they smiled, and braces were a real passion killer when we moved into the dating years.
Not any more – now we can do everything the braces did, but discreetly in invisibly. That is the magic of Invisalign dental braces.
Before we look at the new innovation in smile makeovers, let’s at what they replace; the old-fashioned teeth braces.
What are braces?
Braces are a method used to straighten teeth over a time period, often stretching several months to a year or more. Traditional braces have been around for decades, and are still widely used. They consist of metal brackets which are attached to your teeth. These are then tied together by wires and tiny rubber bands, applying small but steady pressure to your teeth over a period of months. Some braces have an external strap to increase the pressure.
You can make them more discreet by using white brackets, or more funky by opting for bright colours. But in any case, they are very visible and obvious.
What is Invisalign?
In a word, Invisalign is discretion. Just like braces, this is a smile makeover. But an invisible smile makeover.
Invisalign is a new treatment, a 21st century option designed to be invisible. It uses clear aligner trays which are made of a smooth plastic. These are like gumshields, and are worn over the teeth. Your dentist will use a digital scanner to create a 3D simulation of your teeth. This is used to customize your aligners. You then wear the aligner when you need to, as simply as popping in a gumshield.
The benefits
The new system offers two main benefits. The first is obvious – they are a lot easier to hide. They are almost completely invisible.
The second benefit is that they are removable. Traditional braces are cemented firmly to your teeth, and are left on 24 hours a day for months on end. The Invisalign tray can be removed from your mouth instantly, to allow you to eat with comfort, smile for a camera, or enjoy a romantic moment. They can then be popped back in.
There is a third benefit – invisalign trays are very comfortable. Since they are made of a smooth plastic, they don’t irritate gums or the tongue the way some braces and wires can.
Which is right for me?
Braces might still be needed if the straightening job is complicated. But for simple straightening Invisalign is an efficient method for gently moving teeth into alignment. It is less invasive than the older teeth braces. But because it is gentler, it is hard to say how long the patient will have to use the trays. The trays are replaced every two weeks with new ones, slightly altered to maintain the pressure on the teeth. The average length of treatment can be anywhere between six months and eighteen months. As long as the patient remembers – just because they can be taken off, don’t leave them off! They must be left in the mouth at least 22 hours a day.
It is up to the patient to follow this instruction, otherwise the treatment may be prolonged.
Dental braces cost
If you want to check out dental braces cost why not check with us at Cork Dental Care? We can advise on which option is best for you. Self-conscious teens and adults might opt for the discretion of Invisalign. More complicated situations, or situations involving the back teeth, might need braces.
Invisalign dentist near me
If you are wondering is there an Invisalign dentist near me, you have come to the right place. At Cork Dental Care we are experts in this exciting new system. Call in and we will be delighted to chat to you. We look forward to seeing your smile!
