Treatment Types
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Orthodontic aligners, also known as clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a type of orthodontic appliance used to straighten teeth without the need for metal brackets or wires. They consist of a series of clear, plastic trays that are custom-made to fit the patient's teeth. The trays are designed to be worn for a set amount of time, typically one-two weeks, before being replaced with a new set that gradually moves the teeth into their desired position. Orthodontic aligners are a popular choice for people who want a more discreet and comfortable orthodontic treatment option. They are virtually invisible, making them ideal for adults and teenagers who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional braces. However, they require diligent use and maintenance, including regular cleaning and wearing the aligners for the recommended amount of time each day.
Ceramic Fixed Braces
Ceramic fixed braces are a type of orthodontic appliance used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They work in the same way as traditional metal braces, but instead use clear or tooth-coloured ceramic brackets that blend in with the teeth, making them less noticeable. The arch wires can also be tooth coloured to improve the appearance further. Ceramic braces are a popular choice for those who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment option, particularly adults. However, they are more fragile than metal braces, requiring extra care to prevent damage.
Metal Fixed Braces
Also known as traditional braces, are orthodontic appliances used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They consist of brackets, which are attached to each tooth using tooth coloured filling material (composite resin), and archwires that connect the brackets and apply pressure to gradually move the teeth into their correct position. Metal braces are made of high-grade stainless steel, which is durable and resistant to corrosion. They are effective at treating a wide range of orthodontic problems, including crowded or crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and gaps between teeth. Despite the availability of other orthodontic options such as clear aligners, metal braces remain a popular and effective treatment option for many people.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are a type of orthodontic appliance that is attached to the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. Unlike traditional metal braces or ceramic braces, lingual braces are custom-made to fit the shape of the back of the teeth, making them more comfortable to wear. They use brackets and archwires, similar to traditional braces, to move the teeth into their correct position. Lingual braces are an excellent option for people who want to straighten their teeth without the appearance of braces, making them a popular choice for adults. However, they can be more challenging to clean and maintain than other types of braces, and they may take longer to adjust to wearing.
Removable Appliances
Orthodontic removable appliances are devices that can be taken in and out of the mouth to help correct teeth and jaw alignment issues. These appliances are custom-made to fit the patient's teeth and may be used as an alternative to traditional braces for minor orthodontic problems or as a part of the treatment plan. Removable appliances can be made of plastic, metal, or a combination of materials, and can be adjusted over time to gradually move the teeth into their desired position. The use of removable appliances requires a significant level of patient cooperation as they need to be worn for a specific number of hours each day, and oral hygiene must be maintained to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Despite the challenges, removable appliances can be a useful and effective tool in orthodontic treatment.
Retainers
Orthodontic retainers are used to maintain the position of the teeth following orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners. They work by holding the teeth in place after they have been moved into their correct position, preventing them from shifting back to their original position. There are two types of orthodontic retainers: removable and fixed. Removable retainers are made of plastic or acrylic and are designed to be taken out for cleaning and eating. They are usually worn at night-time long-term. Fixed retainers, on the other hand, are permanently attached to the back of the teeth using a tooth-coloured composite filling material. Both types of retainers are effective at maintaining the position of teeth and ensuring the long-term success of orthodontic treatment.
