Choosing the Right Orthodontic Treatment for You

As you may be aware, there are several forms of orthodontic treatment that can be used to help address the issue of crowded and irregular teeth. The difference between each form of brace can be dramatic and choosing the correct treatment for you is important. So you can make a well-informed decision on which service is right for you, we’ve put together this blog which explains each of the different types of orthodontic treatment available to you at Specialist Orthodontist Harley Street, and the benefits of each.

Traditional Braces

The most common type of orthodontic treatment available to patients is traditional braces. These metal braces are applied to the surface of the teeth where they remain for an extended period of time until they have delivered the required effect. This can often be upwards of 18 months. Traditional braces are a straightforward and effective treatment to attain straight teeth and a less crowded smile. For the most part, this treatment should not cause any discomfort. However, some patients may find that they experience discomfort or pain just after adjustments. Talk with your orthodontist if you have any concerns regarding your treatment.

Whilst a straightforward method for straightening teeth is good, it doesn’t offer patients a discrete way of improving their smile. Traditional braces are visible to the human eye, and for many, this can cause them to feel self-conscious about their appearance. There are alternatives to traditional braces that can get around this issue, straightening your smile without the aesthetical appearance of traditional metal braces.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces have been used for a long time and are an effective method of straightening teeth, without getting in the way of your smile. They work by pushing the teeth into place from behind the gumline. This treatment is again very effective but are also case-specific and will only work with patients that require a ‘lift’ of the teeth. If you feel like this applies to you, talk to one of our orthodontists and they can help you decide whether this type of treatment is right for you.

This type of brace is quite well hidden and is less noticeable on a day-to-day basis. On the other hand, lingual braces can still be rather uncomfortable. During the first month, many patients experience a sore tongue, due to the placement of the lingual braces. Some patients also experience a faint lisp in their speech with this type of treatment. Other treatments are available for those who would like hidden braces.

Six Month Smiles

A braces system that in more recent years has become very popular in the dental industry is Six Month Smiles. This treatment has been developed with newer, more modern skills and techniques. The process with this treatment begins much like a traditional brace would. In this instance, small translucent braces will be applied to select teeth along with a clear or tooth-coloured wire. This then manoeuvres your teeth into place to give the patient their desired results.

Six Month Smiles offers a much more natural-looking smile during the treatment phase. In fact, it’s almost unnoticeable to others in your day-to-day life. It is also considered a slightly more comfortable form of the brace, as it’s made from plastics that avoid irritating and catching on the teeth, gums and cheeks. Another benefit of this treatment is the time to completion. Six Month Smiles treatment can be completed in an average of six months, with treatment times ranging from four to nine months.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a very popular form of orthodontics, and for good reason. This relatively new form of orthodontic treatment gives patients a comfortable, almost unnoticeable alternative to traditional braces. This treatment begins with an oral scan which will be able to show you an example of what you can expect your smile to look like after the treatment. Plastic trays are made from a mould of your jaw which helps to manoeuvre your teeth for a more aesthetically pleasing smile. These plastic trays apply gentle pressure, helping to reduce discomfort whilst also being almost completely invisible to the human eye. These trays are also removable, making it easier to eat, drink and clean.

If you’re concerned about the appearance of your smile during treatment or would like to avoid the awkwardness of wires and brackets, then Invisalign could be the treatment for you. Talk to our orthodontist's today to find out more about our Invisalign service and start your journey towards your ideal smile.

Specialist Orthodontist Harley Street

Harley Street is famous in the medical community for the quality of the clinics, dentists and service you can find there. Specialist Orthodontist Harley Street is one of the leading orthodontic specialists now accepting new patients. This experienced team can help with even the most difficult cases and can help you achieve your desired smile.

Get in touch with Specialist Orthodontist Harley Street today and book your consultation with an orthodontic specialist.