Everything you need to know about straightening crooked teeth

Misaligned and crooked teeth not only affect your ability to eat and speak, but also ruin your smile and facial esthetics. When it comes to fixing tooth misalignment, there are many orthodontic treatment options to choose from. If your dentist has also recommended orthodontic treatment for fixing your teeth, and you’re wondering which option to choose, this article is for you. In this article, we will discuss different orthodontic treatment options so you can select an option that best suits your needs.  

Is Invisalign better than braces?

Every orthodontic system has its own advantages and disadvantages. If we compare the Invisalign aligners with fixed braces, the most prominent difference among them is the aesthetics. While the traditional braces have an unaesthetic metallic appearance, the Invisalign aligners are made from a transparent polymer which makes them virtually invisible. 

If we talk of comfort and convenience, the Invisalign aligners are removable; you can simply take them off while eating or brushing your teeth. Also the clear aligners do not have any sharp edges - unlike the metal braces. Therefore, they do not cause irritation or injury of the gums and cheeks. 

When it comes to the range of treatments offered, Invisalign aligners are an excellent option for correcting mild to moderate orthodontic problems. On the other hand, braces can be used to fix even the most complicated orthodontic problems. Your dentist, after careful examination of your teeth, helps you decide which treatment option is the best for you. 

Can Braces Make Your Teeth Fall Out?

Despite all safety features, even the most expensive cars are unsafe when driven by inexperienced drivers. Similarly, orthodontic treatment can play havoc with your teeth if it is done by someone inexperienced or inadequately qualified. 

Dental braces work by exerting gentle forces on your teeth to move them in a desirable position. Your orthodontist will carefully monitor the applied forces so they don’t damage your teeth or gums. However, if too much force is applied to the teeth, it may result in extensive damage to the underlying bone and the tissues holding the tooth inside its sockets. As a result, the teeth become loose and ultimately fall off. That is why you must always go to an experienced and qualified orthodontist for teeth straightening 

Is Invisalign Better Than Other Home Delivery Braces?

The Invisalign system was among the pioneers to offer orthodontic treatment with clear aligners. Over the years, many new aligner systems have been introduced which claim to be as effective, even better than the Invisalign aligners. However, there is not sufficient clinical data available regarding their efficacy or superiority over the Invisalign aligners. On the other hand, there are numerous studies that have documented the safety and efficacy of the Invisalign aligners for straightening teeth. While the newer home delivery orthodontic systems may appear to be a much more cost-effective and convenient option, they have not been time-tested or clinically proven efficacious. Therefore, it is best to stick to the clinically and time-tested orthodontic options like Invisalign or ceramic braces. 

Can Retainers Straighten Teeth Without Braces?

According to the British Orthodontic Society, retainers are fixed or removable appliances that are worn after treatment with braces or clear aligners is completed. Retainers are passive appliances, meaning that they do not exert any forces on your teeth, they are simply worn to prevent your teeth from moving back to their previous positions. Therefore, a retainer is not a suitable appliance to realign or straighten teeth. 

Does Straightening Teeth Make Them Weak?

Orthodontic treatment does not make your teeth weak. However, the Oral Health Foundation recommends taking special care of your teeth during orthodontic treatment - especially when wearing braces. This is because optimal teeth cleaning between the teeth becomes difficult with braces, and there are higher chances of developing dental problems like teeth cavities and gum inflammation. Therefore, while orthodontic treatment itself will not weaken your teeth, you must be more careful regarding your oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment as the braces may hinder optimal teeth cleaning. 

How To Tell If You Have A Cavity With Braces?

The first sign of a developing cavity around braces is a white spot lesion. According to a recent research study, white spot lesions refer to areas on a tooth where tooth decay has started. The good news is that white spot lesions are reversible if diagnosed early. Your dentist may recommend you a fluoride containing toothpaste or mouthwash to replenish the minerals in the affected teeth. In some cases, your orthodontist may also use a fluoride varnish to strengthen your teeth. If the white spot lesions are not treated timely, they will grow into full-blown teeth cavities and may even lead to other complications like tooth sensitivity and pulp inflammation. 

How To Prevent Tooth Decay With Braces?

The chances of developing tooth decay are higher in those wearing braces because they hinder optimal oral hygiene maintenance. However, tooth decay, and the ensuing teeth cavities can still be prevented. All you need to do is:

• Oral Hygiene Maintenance - brush twice a day and floss daily. The American Dental Association recommends using a fluoride containing toothpaste for maximum cavity protection.

• Use a fluoride Mouthwash - a fluoride mouthwash will kill harmful bacteria and make your teeth resistant against cavities. 

• Avoid Sugary Foods and Fizzy Drinks - sugary foods are particularly harmful for during orthodontic treatment, as they tend to stick around the braces, and promote bacterial adhesion that leads to cavities. Similarly, fizzy and acidic drinks tend to make our teeth weaker and more prone to teeth cavities. 

• Visit your Orthodontist Regularly - regular visits to your orthodontist will ensure that any problem with your teeth is diagnosed and treated in early stages. >

Looking for an orthodontic practice in Liverpool to get your teeth straightened? Look no more. Crosby Dental has been bringing smiles to its patients with orthodontic treatment for many years. No matter how complex your orthodontic problem is, our Principal Dentist, Dr. Peter Doyle has a solution for it. To take care of all your entire family’s dental needs, we take pride in offering all family dental services under one roof. 

So, book an appointment with us today and take the first step towards your smile. If you book now, you will only need to pay only £30.

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Proudly welcoming patients from around the Liverpool area including Waterloo, Blundellsands, Waterloo, Formby, Thornton, Hightown & Bootle

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