Why might you need a brace or aligner?
Being blessed with the most perfectly aligned teeth does not happen to the majority of us. Our teeth may be crooked, have an overbite or underbite and whilst minor cases may be something you choose to live with, when facing moderate to severe misalignment it is often something we want to change. This is where braces Liverpool come into our lives.
What is a brace and how does it work?
A brace, which is often suited to the more moderate to severe cases of misalignment works by pulling the teeth over a period of time into a new aligned position. Brackets are bonded to the teeth and are connected by a wire, ensuring that the teeth are gradually put into place through the tightening of the wires. This particular treatment is considered to be the more traditional method as the idea of ‘train track’ braces has been around for some time. Unfortunately, due to the appearance of the metal brackets on the teeth which are not the most inconspicuous, many want to shy away from this method as they are embarrassed by their appearance. However, this no longer needs to be an issue as Six Month Smiles have taken on board the traditional method and made it more cosmetically appealing through the use of clear brackets and tooth coloured wires.
Why choose a brace over an aligner?
When considering the choice between braces Liverpool and an aligner it is important to understand that it is like choosing a new pair of shoes. Not only do they need to sit as comfortably as possible and appear appealing, they also need to be suitable for the situation. Aligners, which resemble a mouth guard, whilst often the more desired choice due to their subtle, transparent appearance, are best suited to the more mild to moderate misalignment issues. The devices are also easily removed and therefore temptation to deviate from the plan set out by the dental team can be tempting. The brace on the other hand can only be tightened and removed by the dentist. Whilst this may mean more dental appointments, the alignment plan cannot be easily deviated from, ensuring that the alignment process remains on track.
Who makes the choice?
In order to discover which alignment treatment will work best for your individual case, you will have a consultation with your dental team. During this time you will be able to discuss your preferences and listen to the expertise of your dental team. Guided by the knowledge provided and weighing up the different pros and cons will assist in coming to a decision with the dentist. This process, along with the actual treatment, requires teamwork from both you and your dental team. The treatment plan needs to work for you, the patient, as the end result is for your benefit and needs to be something you want to work towards.
Please note, all dental treatments and procedures, including the ones mentioned in this article, are recommended after a thorough consultation with our practice team determines the best braces Liverpool for you and your individual dental situation.