Children, teenagers and adults alike who face the prospect of getting braces dread it. From discomfort and inconvenience to feelings of self-consciousness, traditional braces have a notorious reputation for being unpleasant to wear. Fortunately, new innovations mean it’s not as much of a hassle as it once was. New retainers for teeth, braces and teeth aligners provide effective options for those looking to achieve a healthy smile with minimal interference.
Options for Teeth Braces
Today, you can choose from traditional metal, discreet ceramic, convenient self-ligating or even invisible teeth braces. Developments in technology and design have meant conventional braces are much lighter, smaller and more comfortable to wear than they previously were. Those who still want to opt for a discreet treatment can get Invisalign.
Invisible Teeth Straightening with Invisalign Dental Braces
Invisalign is a dental treatment that uses nearly invisible aligners to straighten your teeth. A technician scans your teeth, and then uses computer modelling to create a clear plastic mould that’s right for you. The aligners are removable and need to be replaced every two weeks. Each one is moulded to slowly realign your teeth each week until they straighten to the final position prescribed by your dentist.
Retainers for Teeth: The Treatment Process
Your dentist will confirm your eligibility for Invisalign and then take photos and impressions of your teeth. These are then sent to Invisalign who 3D print a series of custom-made aligners and then send them to your dentist, who will give you up to three or four at a time.
You need to wear your Invisalign braces around 20 to 22 hours each day and replace them every couple of weeks until your teeth are corrected. Treatment usually takes around 12 months for an adult or up to 24 months for a teenager or child. However, this will vary a lot depending on how much your teeth need to be aligned. Your dentist can provide you with a detailed treatment plan during your consultation.
Benefits of Invisible Teeth Aligners
Invisalign braces are made out of a smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible thermoplastic material. This makes them easy to wear over your teeth, moving them into the correct position without the discomfort of traditional braces. The fact that you can remove them means it’s easy to thoroughly clean your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene throughout the treatment process.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign braces don’t irritate your cheeks and gums and you have the benefit of being able to eat whatever you want. You may experience temporary discomfort and an effect on your speech, but this tends to pass in a couple of days once your tongue gets used to having them in your mouth.
Invisible Dental Braces in Melbourne
At King Street Dental, we offer quality general dental services as well as cosmetic dentistry in Melbourne. This includes everything from regular check-ups to professional teeth whitening and Invisalign treatment for teeth straightening. Book a consultation and we can take a look at your teeth, determine what you’d like to achieve and create a treatment plan using bespoke aligners.
Book an appointment online today or call 03 9841 8033.