Types of Orthodontic Treatments

Pros and cons of various type of braces

Clear Aligners

These are almost invisible clear removable braces or aligners that are made of soft colourless plastic and have no wire components. The commonest version is Invisalign which we use extensively at Elite Orthodontics. Clear plastic aligners are designed in a way such that each individual tooth has a certain amount of pressure applied to it which causes it to move gently and slightly. The patient is given a series of these aligners designed to be worn in a stepwise sequence. Each aligner moves the teeth by a small amount in the desired direction.

The aligners are created from scans and by using special digital software that determines the entire tooth movement sequence. Then the full movement is broken down into smaller stages. A sequence of aligners is created to match these smaller stages.

These types of braces only remain “active” as long as the aligner or removable brace is worn. The action stops when they are taken out to either eat or clean their teeth. For this reason, it is important they are worn all the time for as long as possible and only taken out briefly to eat or to clean the teeth.

See also: Aftercare – Clear Aligners

Removable Braces

Removable braces have a plastic base plate with a few wire components attached to them. Each of these components either fits the plate to the teeth or gently puts pressure on the teeth to move them. Removable braces are still used for very specific purposes in orthodontics.

See also: Aftercare – Removable Braces

Fixed Braces

Fixed braces have two main components: the brackets that are glued to your teeth and the main archwire that connects them.

Each bracket is precisely engineered and shaped to customise the movements for each tooth. Brackets could be made of steel (silver) or ceramic (tooth-coloured). They can go on the outside of the teeth, or they can be fitted on the inside (lingual braces).

The archwire is a thin wire that threads through each bracket and connects a tooth to the wire. The archwire is a bi-product of NASA research and has perfect shape memory. For this reason, the wire then pulls or pushes the teeth into the correct alignment and proper position.

The brackets need to be positioned in a precise and intricate manner by the orthodontist as this can affect the dynamics of each tooth movement. When our braces in London are first placed, the teeth are all irregular and crooked, and the archwire thus follows the ins and outs and ups and downs of the tooth positions. However, as the wire gently and slowly straightens out due to its shape memory, the teeth begin to follow the archwire’s return to a perfect arch shape and become aligned.

If you’re still unsure about your orthodontic options read our blog on Invisalign vs Braces to learn more. 

See also: Aftercare – Fixed Braces

Orthodontic Treatments FAQ’s

Although it’s no secret that orthodontic treatment is easiest during the early teenage years due to the teeth being easier to move – there is no ‘right’ age when it comes to orthodontics.

In fact, more and more adults are now opting to correct their smiles thanks to modern dentistry offering more discreet alternatives to braces such as Invisalign.

So, if you’re considering transforming your smile – be sure to get in touch with our team of specialists.

Yes, this is a possibility, but don’t worry – it isn’t going to a severe change, and nobody is likely to notice. Depending on the type of issues you’re fixing with your braces, you may find that as your teeth shift, your face shape subtly changes too.

This is most common when correcting an overbite or underbite, as it can shift the way your jaw looks. Your dentist will be able to give you an idea of how your face could potentially change during your consultation.

Yes! Braces are designed to work specifically to your smile, with each tooth being accounted for so that daily movement can take place. However, it’s worth noting that these daily shifts are slow and small, so it can still take a significant length of time to complete your treatment.

Thanks to modern dentistry, there are now a wide range of options available for those looking to straighten out their smile. However, removeable braces might be the best option for you if you only need to make a few minor adjustments.

Removable braces still work to straighten out the teeth and can also be used to close any gaps or even align your bite. Your dentist will be able to give you an idea of the best type of orthodontic treatment for you during your initial consultation.