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Metal Braces
Metal braces are the gold standard of orthodontic treatments. They were introduced in the 1970s, as around that time the increasing use of stainless steel in medicine and the invention of appropriate dental adhesives coincided, which led to the development of metal braces. Prior to the use of metal braces with brackets, orthodontists have used headgears and bands made from precious metal, which were wrapped around each tooth. The invention of metal braces has revolutionised orthodontics, as metal braces were universally applicable to every condition, while also having a relatively low associated cost.
This led to the widespread use of these devices, which is still prevalent today as a cost-effective tool of orthodontics. However, as some patients desired a more aesthetic solution for straightening teeth, the market was driven to develop alternatives for metal braces, which led to the development of Invisalign and other invisible aligners, clear braces and lingual braces. If you are interested in finding an Invisalign Dentist in Welwyn, you should book an appointment with Neel Dentistry.
Invisalign
Invisalign is one of the most popular alternatives to metal braces. Invisalign was introduced to the market in the late 1990s, it was one of the first companies to provide an alternative for metal braces with brackets. Invisalign is a plastic shell worn on dental arches, which fits perfectly on the teeth while also exerting the necessary pressure on them. An Invisalign treatment course starts with an initial consultation session, where your orthodontist evaluates whether your teeth type and your condition are suitable to be treated with Invisalign, and a 3D recording of your oral cavity using a special device capable of imaging without ionising radiation. Once this is done, a number of aligners are manufactured, usually between 6 and 12 depending on individual circumstances.
The biggest and most obvious benefit of Invisalign is that it straightens your teeth. The aligners are almost entirely Invisible to the public, which is a significant aesthetic improvement. They also come in colours, so you can consult a clinic that provides teeth straightening Cardiff (or in an area near you) if you wish to have those. Furthermore, these devices are removable, therefore you do not have to worry about staining them or eating food that can get stuck in braces. This means that it is also fairly easy to clean the aligners.
Who Can Invisalign Work For? Are There Alternatives?
Invisalign has innumerable benefits, however as is the case with most medical treatments, it is not for everyone. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the aligners patients who have overly small or large, or round tooth shapes and sizes cannot be treated with Invisalign.
Furthermore, it is also not suitable to treat more severe orthodontic conditions, such as severe malocclusions. It is indicated to treat cosmetic, mild and moderately severe orthodontic conditions. If you experience a more severe orthodontic condition, there is no reason to worry as Invisalign has alternatives as well: clear braces and lingual braces are two of them. Consult with your dentist to find out which tooth straightening option it is best for your individual lifestyle circumstances and your specific orthodontic condition.