The demand for straightening teeth and smile improvement among adults in the UK has grown exponentially over the years. According to a survey by the British Orthodontic Society, over one-third of the responding orthodontists said they have observed a considerable increase in the demand for orthodontic treatment over the last three years. Interestingly, over 83% of these patients are within the 26 – 55 age bracket. Moreover, orthodontists believe that over 38% of them are influenced by celebrities and social media influencers.
If you are also concerned about your misaligned teeth that affect your facial aesthetics, no need to worry; You can also enjoy a Hollywood smile with orthodontic treatment. This blog will tell you everything you need to know about adult braces treatment options so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment. So, read on!
What Are The Various Orthodontic Treatments?
There are two main types of orthodontic treatments; fixed and removable. The fixed orthodontic appliances mainly include braces. Conventionally, stainless steel-based metal brackets were used to straighten teeth. However, many people don’t prefer them due to their conspicuous appearance. Therefore, various aesthetic alternatives have been introduced such as tooth-coloured ceramic and lingual braces.
On the other hand, removable orthodontic appliances include clear aligners. These are tray-like appliances that are worn over the teeth, and they gradually move the teeth by applying gentle pressure on them.
How Does The Orthodontic Treatment Procedure Work?
Orthodontic treatment involves realigning the teeth in their desired direction. This is done by applying gentle force on the teeth. In the case of fixed braces, the orthodontic wire generates tension that moves the teeth. On the other hand, clear aligners are designed to be snuggly fit over our teeth and apply forces to gradually move them in the desired direction.
How Long Until Braces Start Moving Teeth?
Braces begin applying pressure on your teeth as soon as they are bonded. However, it may take a few days or weeks before you observe any change in the alignment of your teeth. This is because the teeth have to move within the jawbone, which is a slow process and requires the application of sufficient pressure to bring about tooth movement.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take For Adults?
The time required for straightening one’s teeth with orthodontic treatment depends on various factors, such as the patient’s age, the severity of the underlying issue and dentist-related factors, such as the type of orthodontic treatment used, and the dentist’s speciality, qualification, and experience.
How To Get Orthodontic Treatment Without Metal Braces?
If you don’t want to straighten your teeth with metal braces, there are other alternatives available. For example, you can benefit from tooth-coloured ceramic braces or lingual braces. Similarly, you may also get removable clear aligners as a comfortable and virtually invisible alternative to fixed braces.
Will Orthodontic Treatment Be Painful?
Many people avoid orthodontic treatment because they think it will be painful. The fact is that you may experience slight pain or discomfort at the beginning of your treatment, or after every wire or aligner change, but the discomfort should go away in a few days. In fact, the discomfort implies that your teeth are moving and your treatment is progressing in the right direction.
Why To Get Teeth Braces Or Orthodontic Treatment?
The main purpose of orthodontic treatment is to realign the teeth. This can have several aesthetic, oral and general health-related benefits. For example, straight teeth improve smiles and self-confidence. Moreover, straight teeth are easier to clean. Therefore, people with straight teeth have a lower risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease than those with misaligned teeth. Finally, it is easier to chew and digest food with straight teeth. Hence, people with naturally straight teeth, or those who have had them straightened, have better physical health and immunity than those with crooked teeth.
Are Orthodontic Treatments Safe?
Orthodontic treatment, whether done by fixed braces or removable aligners, is safe as long as it is performed by an experienced and qualified orthodontist. You may find numerous dentists offering orthodontic treatment and unbelievably low rates. However, these novice dentists may do more harm to your teeth than good. So, it is always advisable to visit a renowned specialist orthodontist for teeth straightening.
Can I Use Braces On The Upper Teeth Only?
If you only have crooked front teeth, you may get braces on the upper and lower front teeth only. However, your dentist will advise whether you’re a suitable candidate for getting front-only braces after a careful examination and treatment planning.
If You Need Braces But Don't Want Them, What Do You Do?
If your orthodontist has told you that you need braces, you shouldn’t avoid the treatment. If you are willing to undergo orthodontic treatment but don’t want metal braces, you may consider other alternatives such as clear aligners or lingual braces.
Are you searching for a renowned dental practice in Ballsbridge for orthodontic treatment, your best option is Pembroke Dental. We take pride in having the best team of dental professionals in town who provide the highest-quality treatment in a comfortable and relaxing environment. So, request a free consultation with us today and let us take care of your entire family’s oral health needs.
