What’s a bet that braces are the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking about how to correct teeth alignment? You’ll be pleased to know that the days where metal plates, braces and headgear were the only solution for straightening teeth are long gone. New teeth straightening methods on the market have revolutionised the way orthodontists can treat orthodontic problems and help children, teens and adults achieve a brilliant smile.
Correcting teeth alignment for adults
The developing bones of children and teenagers make early orthodontic treatment effective, with braces a top choice for fixing overbites and underbites, straightening teeth and altering the growth of jaws. While braces are also an effective choice for adults, not all adults feel comfortable showcasing a mouth full of metal for up to two years. If you were self-conscious about your smile before, chances are metal braces could make you even more self-conscious. Thankfully, the growing range of teeth straightening options available is providing more choice for adults wanting to achieve a stunning smile. Whether it’s your bite that’s causing you bother, or crooked and misaligned teeth that have you hiding your smile, cutting-edge orthodontic treatments can fix orthodontic problems comfortably and with little disruption to daily life. Adults who missed out on having their teeth straightened in their youth, or have experienced mouth and jaw issues later in life, are jumping on board with these new straightening solutions to improve their overall mouth health and achieve the winning smile they have longed for.
Ways to correct teeth alignment
Deciding how to correct teeth alignment largely depends on your orthodontic issues and end goal. Whether you simply want a stunning smile, or want to improve your mouth health and fix painful orthodontic issues, your first step should be to visit your orthodontist to seek advice on which option is best for you. Current solutions on the market include:
- traditional metal braces
- Invisalign
- Incognito braces
- Clarity Advanced – colourful braces
- veneers
- orthodontic retainers.
Talk to you orthodontist about the best solution for your unique mouth and personal goals.
#1 Traditional metal braces
Metal braces are the most widely known method of correcting teeth alignment. Metal brackets and wires are attached to your teeth and adjusted or tightened over time to move your teeth into the correct position. Brackets and wires can cause irritation to the mouth, while patients must be vigilant with teeth cleaning to ensure food doesn’t get trapped in hard to reach places. Treatment can take up to two years.
#2 Invisalign
Invisalign is one of the less obtrusive teeth straightening solutions on the market. Clear, custom-made trays move teeth over time to the correct position. The trays, known as aligners, can be removed when brushing teeth. Invisalign is an effective way to straighten teeth, correct overcrowding and fix gaps. It is one of the newer solutions available and a popular alternative to braces for those who are self-conscious.
#3 Incognito braces
Incognito braces are slimline braces designed to be placed behind your teeth making them completely hidden, or incognito. These clever braces are ideal if you or your child are self-conscious about metal braces. Keep in mind that Incognito braces are not suitable for all orthodontic situations. Your orthodontist can advise which option is the most effective for you or your child.
#4 Colourful braces – Clarity Advanced
Be bold with your braces and choose Clarity Advanced colourful braces. Clarity Advanced braces are popular among children and teens who want to express themselves and make a statement with their smile. Clarity bands are available in a rainbow of colours to suit everyone’s taste. If you prefer to lessen the visibility of your braces, you can opt for clear braces which take on the natural colour of your teeth. Some patients opt for a mixture of metal and clear or colourful braces. You could, for example, opt for metal braces on the bottom and clear or colourful braces on the top. Your orthodontist can advise if this option is available to you or your child.
#5 Veneers
Veneers are an effective option for correcting simple teeth straightening issues or hiding stained and discoloured teeth. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain that are applied to the front of your teeth to permanently fix uneven, chipped or crooked teeth. Veneers can be colour matched to your existing teeth to complete your new smile. Veneers are strong, durable and a popular teeth straightening method among adults.
#6 Orthodontic retainers
Just when you thought your teeth correction days were over, you will most likely need to wear an orthodontic retainer after the teeth straightening process is complete. This will ensure your teeth remain in the correct position. Your orthodontist will recommend a permanent or non-permanent retainer depending on your situation.
Why should I get my teeth corrected?
Correcting teeth alignment can offer more than cosmetic benefits. If teeth are not aligned correctly, you could be lining you or your children up for long-term issues, including cavities, uneven wear or jaw problems.
#1 Teeth crowding
If you or your child was born with a small jaw and lack space in your mouth, teeth can become crooked and overcrowded. This can not only affect your smile, but it can make it trickier to ensure effective oral hygiene.
#2 Closing gaps between teeth
You may have inherited a gappy smile, or have more space in your mouth after losing teeth with age. If gaps between your teeth are affecting your self-esteem, teeth straightening can close gaps and boost your confidence. Gaps between teeth can also result in teeth and gum issues if they are not properly cared for.
#3 Resolving bite issues
The position of your bite can cause jaw pain and uneven wear on your teeth. If not corrected, bite issues can become painful.
How do I know which teeth straightening solution is best for me?
Contact your orthodontist to discuss the pros and cons of each of the teeth straightening solutions on the market. Your orthodontist will provide a detailed examination of your mouth and advise which option is the best solution for your orthodontic issues and concerns. Book an appointment with Australia Dental today to discuss how to correct teeth alignment and find the right solution for you.
