Orthodontics is a specialised type of holistic and comprehensive dentistry that focuses on realigning and straightening teeth. In recent years, it has seen an exciting rise in technological advancements, which have made many orthodontic innovations possible.
Orthodontic treatments have become quick, less invasive and perhaps most importantly, more discreet. With the introduction of clear aligners and Invisalign, people have more options than ever to choose from when it comes to straightening their crooked teeth.
Braces
Braces are used to straighten crooked and crowded teeth. The most popular type of braces are Metal Braces, but there are other kinds available, such as Ceramic Braces, Self-Ligating Braces and Lingual Braces. Braces have been in use for over 100 years, and although there have been modern orthodontic innovations since then, they remain a popular treatment option to straighten teeth.
It is extremely important to take proper care of your teeth while wearing your braces, and your dentist will often give you lots of advice and tips to keep your teeth and braces in the best possible condition.
Procedure Process
The typical procedure process for getting braces includes:
- A referral to an orthodontist.
- Consultation with an orthodontist or dentist.
- Thorough teeth cleaning.
- Adhesive being applied to teeth.
- Placing the wires into the brackets.
- Applying the elastic bands.
Benefits of Braces
The benefits of braces include:
- Effective: They are an extremely effective way to straighten your teeth.
- Confidence: After your braces come off, you will have a new sense of confidence.
- Easier to maintain oral health: After your braces are removed, it will be easier to maintain a regular, effective oral health care routine.
- Easier to eat more types of foods: It can be much easier to eat certain foods when your teeth are straight.
- Improve your speech: Crooked teeth can sometimes cause a lisp, which can disappear after wearing braces.
- Can relieve pain and headaches: Misaligned teeth can sometimes cause mouth pain and can give you headaches. This can be resolved with braces.
Invisalign
Invisalign is the most popular type of clear aligner. For over 20 years, it has become an increasingly popular way to get the smile of your dreams, especially as it’s discreet and non-invasive.
Procedure Process
The procedure process for Invisalign includes:
- Initial consultation where you discuss what you want from your treatment, and the dentist explains what to expect from Invisalign.
- A 3D impression is made of your teeth and mouth. X-rays and photos are also taken.
- The dentist sends off the impression of your teeth, and the aligners are made using special software.
- The aligner tray is fitted in your mouth, and the dentist explains what aftercare is needed.
- A follow-up appointment with your dentist, who checks your process.
Benefits of Invisalign
The benefits of Invisalign include:
- Discreet: Compared to braces, Invisalign is discreet and doesn’t make you feel self-conscious.
- Comfortable: Invisalign is comfortable and non-invasive.
- Removable: As your aligners can be removed, it allows you to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly.
- Normal diet: Having removable aligners also means you can continue to eat all your favourite foods without having to cut out anything from your diet.
- Shorter treatment time: While the treatment time for braces can take anywhere from 12-24 months, the treatment for Invisalign can usually be completed within a year.
- Easier to clean: Because aligners are removable, it is much easier to keep them clean.
- Effective: Invisalign results in straighter teeth.
- Spend less time at the dentist: With aligners, you don’t need to spend as much time in the dentist’s chair.
Other Orthodontic Innovations
Some other orthodontic innovations include:
- 3D teeth impressions: 3D impressions give a more accurate and complete picture of your mouth, which allows for 3D custom-made orthodontic treatments that work best for you.
- Digital X-rays: Digital X-rays are not only safer for you and the environment (they have less radiation), but they are also higher-quality, quicker to get, and easily modified (enlarged and highlighted) so you and your dentist get a more accurate overview of any oral issues you may have.
- High-tech alloy wires: Originally created by NASA, these alloy wires are made from nickel-titanium, which is heat-activated and helps to reshape your teeth.
It’s amazing to look back and see how far orthodontic innovation has come, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for the orthodontic and dental industries!
At Bowral Street Dental Practice, we’re proud to have a comprehensive and holistic approach to dental care. We’re very aware that dental visits can be stressful for many, which is why we make your comfort our top priority. To find out more about braces, Invisalign, and our other dental treatments, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at (02) 4861 6576 or visit our website: https://bowralstreetdentalpractice.com.au/