Orthodontic Treatment Devices That Are Invisible To A Casual Observer
Posted on: 29 October 2021
If you're looking for a discreet treatment option to straighten your teeth, you may be considering several orthodontic devices.
Here are a few orthodontic treatment options that are not visible to a casual observer.
Lingual Braces
Although lingual braces include brackets that are metal and would be easily seen on the front surfaces of the teeth, the positioning of the braces makes them invisible. The braces are applied to the side of the teeth that lies next to the lingual organ, which is commonly called the tongue.
Since the braces are not placed on the front side of the teeth, they are hidden from view when a person smiles or speaks. Although the position of the lingual braces in the mouth is different from that of traditional braces, lingual braces still straighten the teeth as effectively as their conventional counterparts.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces also include brackets, but instead of metal, the brackets are made from clear or white ceramic. The ceramic material blends well with the natural white color of the tooth enamel. As a result, ceramic braces are difficult to discern in the mouth.
To further reduce the visibility of the braces, wearers can choose clear or white elastic bands to attach the ceramic brackets to the archwires of the appliance.
Clear Plastic Aligners
Clear plastic aligners are customized trays that are fashioned from transparent plastic. The rigid material places aligning pressure on the teeth to gently force them into a straighter configuration.
The aligning trays are worn throughout the day and night. However, they may be removed for the patient to brush, floss, and eat more comfortably.
Instead of a single set of trays, the treatment includes the use of a series of aligners. Each set of aligning trays is worn for several weeks and then replaced by the next consecutive set in the treatment plan.
Since the aligners do not generate friction as the elastic bands of traditional braces do, there is less oppositional force for the aligners to overcome as they reposition the teeth. Consequently, the aligning trays tend to reconfigure the teeth more quickly, reducing the overall treatment time.
Nevertheless, clear plastic aligners are not for everyone. To be a suitable candidate for these orthodontic devices, your palates must be fully grown. Thus, the aligners are typically recommended for teen and adult patients only.
To learn more ways to straighten your teeth discreetly, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area and ask about invisible braces.
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