Medical Statistics say that in nearly 50 per cent of people, teeth are irregular, crooked or not aligned. With advances in the field of dentistry, particularly in the branch of orthodontics which deals with correction of irregularities in the teeth and jaws, the treatment of such teeth is not difficult. Straightening of irregular teeth in the past was limited to the use of removable plates with ugly looking steel wires and the treatment was almost always a compromised one and too lengthy and painful.
Modern techniques are simple and painless and the treatment can be carried out in individuals of all age groups starting right form the age of three to four years and as late as 30-40 years, though the earlier the treatment is carried out, the better it is.
These days, there are a number of choices available regarding the type of braces to be chosen. These are different techniques and braces available nowadays, including the new tooth colored invisible braces and visible metal braces. Newer types of braces are further divided into:
1. Ceramic braces
2. Invasalign braces
3. Lingual braces
4. Metal braces
Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces are made of tooth colored composite materials. They are strong and generally don’t stain. Adults like to choose ceramic because they ‘blend in and match’ with the natural teeth and are less noticeable to outsiders than metal braces. These are the type of braces Tom Curise had. The advantages are that they are virtually invisible, more comfortable and irritate gums less than the metal braces, but are more expensive and may require some extra sittings.
Invasalign Braces: Great for people who do not have severe problems. The braces consist of strong plastic trays that are fabricated especially on individual basis. They are indeed invisible. One can get the teeth straightened without anyone seeing that one is wearing braces. Trays for treatment are computer fabricated by align technologies. They are absolutely invisible to the outsiders.
Lingual Braces: These are placed behind the teeth rather than the usual front portion of the teeth and are virtually invisible to others. Only few specially trained professional orthodontists carry out treatment with lingual braces.
Metal Braces: Used for traditional orthodontics treatment. These are very strong and can withstand most types of treatment. At first, they may irritate the gums, but after a few weeks, get settled. Though less expensive, these are more noticeable than other types.
And now few tips you should follow to get best out of whichever treatment you choose to take up:
1. Avoid fizzy drinks
2. Chew your food
3. Don’t take drugs
4. Quit smoking
5. Stay away from Bleaching
6. Stop Biting nails