teeth straightening

There are a wide range of options available for straightening crooked teeth. The most common uses either a fixed or removable brace to which wires are attached which gently move the teeth into place. This work is carried out by a qualified ortodontist.

Other options exist, including clear braces such as invisalign. If you are interested in straighter teeth, ask your dentist about the options available to you.
Whilst the majority of patients are children, there has been a considerable increase in the number of adults receiving treatment in recent years due to new advancements in techniques and materials.

There are many types of appliance, ranging in colours and finishes. One of the exciting advancements is the clear appliances; near-invisible custom made aligners, which fit over the teeth and gradually moves them into the correct alignment. Other advances include tooth-coloured and clear fixed appliances, together with sophisticated planning technology that lets you see how your teeth are going to move before you undertake treatment.

To determine your Orthodontic needs, a variety of techniques are used including direct measurements, x-rays, study casts and photographs, to aid treatment planning.

Treatment is often lengthy, but once completed, Orthodontics can provide incredible results. Regular visits to your Orthodontist are needed, approximately every 8 weeks, to make adjustments to your appliance, monitor the progression of your treatment, and offer advice.

FAQ

  • Q: How long will Orthodontic treatment take?
    A: Depending on the severity of the problem, usually between 15 months to 2 years. Your Orthodontist will be able to advise how long they would expect your treatment to take. This will depend on your specific issue, what appliances are used and how quickly your teeth move.

  • Q: Is Orthodontics painful?
    A: There may be a few days at the start of treatment when your mouth feels uncomfortable or tender. The same applies after an adjustment. Your Orthodontist will advise you on how to deal with the discomfort, which will soon pass.

  • Q: How do braces straighten your teeth?
    A: Braces apply gentle pressure to the teeth. This causes the jawbone to soften, before the teeth slowly move to the predetermined position prescribed by your Orthodontist. Heavy pressure does not move the teeth as quickly as gentle pressure.

  • Q: Will I need any teeth out?
    A: Teeth are only removed if absolutely necessary. This happens less often nowadays due to advances in Orthodontic appliance (brace) design. Sometimes however, there is not enough room to line up the teeth and space will need to be created. Your Orthodontist will be able to advise you on this in your initial consultation.

  • Q: I am an adult: Is it too late for me to have Orthodontic treatment?
    A: Not at all! More adults are now having Orthodontic treatment than ever, including many celebrities. The advances in technology now enable you to have Orthodontic treatment in a discreet way, through the introduction of invisible appliances.