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The orthodontic treatments have advanced way beyond ordinary metal brackets. Currently, there are several alternative options for braces, which provide the patient with an opportunity to have a beautiful smile without the discomfort of braces.
In this blog, we’ll discuss various options besides braces, the type of patients who can consider these treatments, and more.
Clear Aligners
ALIGNERCO clear aligners have become one of the most favored treatment options for people who want to straighten their misaligned teeth but do not want to wear metal braces. These clear, plastic appliances are specially designed to fit over the teeth and are worn throughout the day and night to shift the teeth.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
You’ll have a sequence of aligners that you will need to switch every one to two weeks. Each stage changes the alignment of the teeth. They are removable for eating, even brushing or flossing, and need to be worn for 20–22 hours a day for optimal effectiveness.
Retainers
After orthodontic treatment, retainers are used to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their old positions. There are two types of retainers: the fixed retainers, which are cemented to the back of the teeth, and the removable retainers, which are nearly invisible clear plastic trays.
Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances are used in certain cases to improve alignment, especially in children and teens. These appliances are often individually designed and may include spacers or expanders for the movement of teeth or the jaw.
How Do Orthodontic Appliances Work?
Appliances exert steady force on the teeth or the jaw so that they can be repositioned correctly. For instance, spacers are used between teeth to make some space for braces or aligners, while an expander is used to widen the lower jaw to make it aligned.
Veneers
Veneers are used in cases where the misalignment is not severe and the patient merely wants to improve the aesthetics of their smile. It is a thin shell made of porcelain or resin that is placed on the anterior surface of the teeth and serves as a cosmetic camouflage for misaligned and stained teeth.
How Do Veneers Work?
Veneers do not work to align the teeth but make your teeth appear as if they are aligned. They are perfect for people who want instant fixing for their aesthetics.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are fixed appliances applied to children to address conditions that concern the width of their upper jaw. They expand the upper arch slightly at a time to allow the teeth to slide into the proper positions.
How Do Palatal Expanders Work
The expander is attached to the roof of the mouth and applies pressure on the upper molars to widen the palate and thus broaden the upper arch.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a form of treatment that uses a tooth-colored resin to fill gaps in between the teeth to reshape or realign teeth. Although bonding is not suggested for major alignment, it can be applied to correct minor misalignments or imperfections.
How Do Palatal Expanders Work
Your dentist places a soft putty-like material on your teeth and molds it to fix misalignment or aesthetics. After being spread onto the preexisting material, the resin is then set with a particular type of light.
Thus, orthodontics without braces is real, as there are several alternative treatments available now. Say goodbye to metal braces and get the perfect smile with clear aligners and orthodontic appliances like veneers. However, it is always recommended to seek the advice of the dentist to determine which of the methods will suit the best.
FAQs
Q: Is a clear aligner as effective as braces?
Clear aligners are most effective for simple to moderate issues regarding misalignment but should not be used for extreme misalignments that require braces or surgery.
Q: How long do veneers last?
They can last for 10 to 20 years, but durability will depend on how the wearer treats them.
