Teeth straightening is an orthodontic treatment that gradually moves crooked teeth into the proper position. It improves dental health, resolves bite issues and boosts confidence.
It is usually undertaken during adolescence, but can be done at any age. Today’s children and adults have more options than ever to fix crooked teeth and an uneven bite.
Braces
Braces are custom-made, fixed dental tools that help correct crooked teeth and misaligned bites. They are typically worn by teenagers and adults, and work by applying constant, gentle pressure to the teeth. This pressure, combined with the natural anatomy of the jaw and teeth, causes the teeth to shift slowly and straighten over time.
The main components of braces are brackets, arch wires, and bands. The brackets are small squares that the dentist cements to the front of each tooth. They can be made of stainless steel or clear or tooth-colored ceramic or plastic. They act like handles, holding the arch wires that move the teeth. The arch wires are then fastened to the brackets with bands. The bands can be made of stainless steel, clear or tooth-colored materials.
Spacers are small, rubber loop-like pieces that fit between the teeth to create a small space for the arch wire. Some people also get teeth-colored or clear elastic ties that attach the arch wire to the brackets.
The heat of your mouth causes the arch wire to flex and apply pressure to the teeth. The wire WANTS to straighten the teeth, so it gradually pulls them into alignment. While this may seem like a brute force approach to crooked teeth, it’s actually a very efficient way to straighten teeth. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which can lower the risk of gum disease caused by bacterial plaque build-up. This is especially true for overlapping or crowded teeth, which can trap food debris and make it harder to clean.
Invisalign
Unlike conventional metal braces, which can leave marks and scratches on the insides of your mouth and gums, clear aligners are smooth and comfortable. Plus, the transparent trays are virtually invisible. Invisalign is also one of the most convenient teeth straightening options. Patients can remove the trays to brush and floss their teeth, as well as eat and drink. This is particularly important for those who may need to work while wearing the clear aligners. Conventional braces can snag on pens, pencils, and food.
Another benefit of Invisalign is that there are no food restrictions like with other orthodontic methods. With traditional braces, there is a long list of foods that are off limits. Those restrictions can make it difficult for patients to enjoy their favorite meals.
The trays are also easy to clean, which is vital for good dental health. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and can reduce the amount of plaque that builds up, which in turn can help prevent gum disease and cavities.
Invisalign is also a quick and non-invasive treatment, with most patients only needing to visit their orthodontist every 6 weeks. This is significantly less than the time needed for other types of treatments. Invisalign is a great choice for those with busy schedules. Additionally, fewer appointments can save money on travel and other expenses.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners have become very popular and are a good option for many adults who want to straighten their smile without having braces. They are clear plastic trays that are virtually invisible when worn. These trays are comfortable and convenient to wear, and they can also be removed when eating or drinking. This way, the patient can enjoy food and drink without worrying about having metal in their mouth.
The trays are custom-made for each patient based on the orthodontist’s assessment of their current teeth alignment. The orthodontist will take a scan of the patient’s teeth and create a model on a computer. The model will show how the teeth should look once the treatment is finished. This will allow the orthodontist to make adjustments if necessary.
Once the trays are made, they will be sent to the patient’s home. The patient will need to wear the trays for 22 hours per day. They will need to change them out every two weeks with the next tray in the series. Each tray will be slightly different than the previous one and will move the teeth a little bit more.
Clear aligners are an excellent option for a variety of problems, including crooked teeth, overly crowded or spaced teeth, underbite and overbite issues, and gapped teeth. The ability to see the results of their treatment will help keep patients motivated throughout their orthodontic treatment.
Mouthguards
Mouthguards are coverings that fit over teeth and can be used to protect them from bruxism, sleep apnea and sports injuries. A mouthguard is made of a thermoplastic material that has been moulded to fit the shape of your teeth. They are activated by placing them in hot water (boiled) and then placed in your mouth where they adapt to the shape of your teeth with your fingers and tongue. There are two main types of mouthguards, stock and boil and bite. Stock mouth protectors are preformed and available to buy at most sporting goods stores and pharmacies. These are less expensive and can offer a better fit than the boil and bite type, but they tend to be bulky and can make speaking and breathing difficult.
Custom mouthguards are a more expensive option but they are designed specifically for your teeth and gumline to ensure the best fit and comfort. They are normally made from medical-grade thermo plastic that is moulded to the upper and lower jaw areas using a process known as bite registration.
A mouthguard can help reduce crooked teeth by preventing clenching and grinding during sleep. It can also help to reduce pain caused by jaw misalignment, such as headaches and toothaches. A mouthguard can also be helpful in helping to alleviate symptoms of mild sleep apnea by keeping the upper and lower teeth separated which helps prevent the tongue from falling back into the airway during sleep.