For those who used to feel self-conscious about their teeth, everyday activities like smiling for pictures or putting on red lipstick can feel like a battle against insecurity. Our smiles – bright, alert and all – form an integral part of our identities and for those who wish to avoid looking at them, adults with braces or retainers could be something that has cropped up in your Google searches over the past few years. But what’s really involved in the process, how long does it take to give you a smile you’re really proud of, and possibly more pressure, how long will it take? actually Price? We talked to SmileDirectClub– the world’s pioneers of clear, dentist-directed, in-home orthodontic therapy – and dive deep into your other adult bracket options to achieve lowest level you need before starting….
What types of braces are there?
Metal braces:
A more traditional bracket, but less commonly used in adulthood, metal brackets or ‘train rails’ are fixed to the teeth and use continuous gentle pressure to move the teeth over time. time. The process works with brackets – a piece of porcelain or metal placed over each tooth – that are connected by a threaded arch and are bent to fit your ideal bite. The archwire puts pressure on one side of your mouth and over time the teeth move and new bone tissue grows behind it. Although not used in all cases, small rubber bands are sometimes used to help secure the arch cord to the bracket.
Porcelain braces:
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces but use clear or tooth-colored brackets instead of silver or gray metal brackets and wires. As such, they tend to be more appropriate for adult patients, however tend to be more expensive.
Language braces:
Sometimes called ‘hidden brackets’, inner braces are like traditional braces except they are fitted to the inside of the teeth rather than the front, so they are practically invisible. Sadly, not everyone is suitable for this type of brace, especially those with deep grooves.
Clear alignment:
Aligners are thin, clear, removable aligners that are made to fit your teeth and are often preferred because they are less noticeable than metal braces. They also require less maintenance or dental appointments as the process is often much simpler. Aligners work in a similar way, creating micro-motions of individual teeth; however, this is achieved by a series of alignment trays that are worn for a specific period of time before upgrading to the next tray in the process.
While each patient’s individual needs influence their specific treatment choices, it’s clear that the adult braces industry is booming, with a 2018 report from the British Orthodontic Society showing 80% of members noticed an increase in adult patients, up from 75%. in 2016.
If you’re thinking of starting your own journey with adult braces and are considering a clear braces route, bookmark this Q&A with SmileDirectClub for all you need to know before diving into…
Q: First thing, does it hurt? Be honest!
“Like muscle soreness after a good workout, wearing new clothes can cause toothache in the short term. This is completely normal. It is an indication that the teeth are working by moving the teeth into alignment. Your teeth have to put pressure on them to get them to move, and that can be uncomfortable. They will need some time to relax in order to put on the clear suits.
If things feel really awkward, or even painful, you can take some dental wax and apply it to the area of your teeth so they move gently across your gums.”
Q: How long in advance should someone think about dressing up for something like a wedding or big event where they want to look their best?
“On average, SmileDirectClub treatment takes 4-6 months, depending on the treatment plan and the extent of the patient’s teeth. However, patients often tend to notice a difference in their smile within 60 days.”
Q: Are some people’s teeth an option for everyone or will some people’s teeth not be suitable for the process?
“The SDC clear notation set is best suited for people with mild to moderate crowding and distance problems with a minimum age of 12 years. In some cases, An affiliated network of UK registered dentists or orthodontists will determine molars are clearly not the best option for the patient as their case is too complex for the orthodontist remote faculty. In those cases, we will refer the client to a treating dentist in a traditional setting who is convenient for the patient. “
Q: What are the benefits of clear aligners over traditional braces? Is the process faster, longer or the same?
“SmileDirectClub straightens smiles at 60% less cost than traditional orthodontic treatments, and the average treatment plan works 3x faster than braces. This model eliminates the need for customers to come into the office to check the time! “
Q: How does the aligner actually work?
“Each graft is designed to gently and gradually guide your teeth into the desired position consistent with what you and your treating dentist or orthodontist have determined is best for you and your treatment goals. your value. You will start wearing a prescribed new set of markers, (usually you change a new set of markers every 1-2 weeks) to help you through your smile journey.
“Once a client completes treatment with SDC clear aligners, retainers are needed to maintain the smile you love. We recommend purchasing a new retainer every 6 months to keep your teeth in the desired position.”
Q: Let’s talk about the price. How much does it cost to make alternatives later in life?
“Customers have the option of a one-time payment for £1,639, or they can spread the cost over 25 months at £69.43 per month, with a deposit of £69.44.”
Q: Should people with sensitive teeth be more vigilant?
“We recommend that everyone see their dentist for a checkup before proceeding with treatment, to assess whether your teeth are healthy and suitable for straightening. Clients with sensitive teeth may experience more pain during the first week of wearing their teeth than expected, but this is completely normal once your teeth start to shift.”
Q: Are some people’s teeth an option for everyone or will some people’s teeth not be suitable for the process?
“The SDC clear notation set is best suited for people with mild to moderate crowding and distance problems with a minimum age of 12 years. In some cases, an affiliated network of UK registered dentists or orthodontists will determine that teeth are clearly not the best option for the patient because their case is too complex. for remote dentistry. In those cases, we will refer the client to a treating dentist in a traditional setting who is convenient for the patient. “
Happy smiling!
