Teeth straightening, also known as orthodontics, is a method used to adjust the alignment of our teeth. It’s important to note that misaligned teeth aren’t always a problem in terms of function, so in some cases, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary.
When the teeth aren’t straight, it can sometimes impact a person’s confidence in their smile, which is why they may choose to straighten their teeth privately.
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is a specialised area of dentistry that treats misaligned teeth, using tools like braces or clear aligners. The type of treatment chosen will vary depending on the specific needs of the patient.
What are the different ways to straighten the teeth?
Braces
There are a few types of braces which may be considered for orthodontic treatment, including:
Traditional braces
Traditional braces are fixed metal wires on brackets that gradually move the teeth into a new, aligned position. These braces are manually adjusted by the orthodontist over time.
The length of time someone wears traditional braces can vary depending on their alignment needs, but it typically ranges from 12 months to 2 years.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces work in the same way as traditional braces, but they’re attached to the back of the teeth for a more discreet treatment option. Unlike traditional braces, lingual braces are not offered on the NHS, as they’re a less common type of orthodontic treatment and often chosen for cosmetic reasons.
Treatment length varies from person to person but usually lasts between 12 months and 2 years.
Aligners
Clear aligners & Invisalign®
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®, are a removable aligner which can be used to realign the teeth. Clear aligners are a tray that fits over the teeth, these are frequently switched out during the treatment process to gently move the teeth into place.
Clear aligners are worn for about 20 hours or more each day to ensure effective results. They should be removed when eating or drinking to prevent damage.
At what age can the teeth be straightened?
The teeth can be straightened once all of the adult teeth have come through, which is usually from around the age of 11-13. Orthodontic intervention is usually recommended around this stage by the dentist if any alignment issues are spotted.
Adults are able to receive orthodontic treatment, though it’s not common for it to be done on the NHS. Typical orthodontic cases in adulthood are cosmetic and are carried out privately.
Thinking about straightening your teeth? Whether you’re exploring the options for yourself or a child, our team at Colosseum Dental is here to discuss your choices and help you find the best treatment for yourself.
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