Straighter Teeth For Better Oral Health
Even teeth offer more than just a nicer looking smile.
Our teeth can become crooked for a number of reasons. Sometimes this may be due to habits as far back as our childhood, such as thumb sucking, but can also be caused by genetics or overcrowding. Unfortunately, when one tooth moves slightly, others may well follow; moving into the new space which is available.
The end result of crooked teeth can be that it spoils what may be an otherwise attractive smile. Equally important though, is that it can make keeping your teeth and gums healthy, that little bit more difficult.
Clean and healthy teeth
An essential part of keeping our teeth in good condition is to brush and floss them on a daily basis. This helps to remove tiny food particles, along with bacteria, which can damage both teeth and gums. In order to keep the teeth really clean, it is essential to be able to clean between the teeth, where food and bacteria become more easily trapped.
Where teeth are straight, this is relatively easy to do. When teeth have become crooked, possibly overlapping, this creates a tight space that even dental floss may struggle to reach into. The eventual result of this is that debris and bacteria can build up in these areas over time, potentially causing tooth decay, and the need for treatment.
Modern ‘invisible’ dental braces
One major factor which deters many people from having their teeth straightened is the thought of wearing dental braces. This is the only way to straighten teeth, but many people still recall older style metal braces when they think of them. In fact, today’s dental braces are much more discreet, and in some cases, are hardly visible at all.
There are two main types of invisible braces. The first of these retain a similar system to traditional braces, using wires and brackets to re-position the teeth. Unlike metal braces though, they use much finer materials and are produced in a colour similar to that of your natural teeth. Some of these systems are particularly ideal for minor corrections and may, in some instances, only need to be worn for a few months to correct the problem.
The other type of orthodontics involves the use of transparent trays which are worn directly over the teeth. These are made from a strong medical grade plastic and offer a greater degree of comfort than other methods. In addition to this, the trays are made to be removed when you eat, and for cleaning your teeth. This makes life much easier and also makes it more straightforward to keep your teeth clean. Generally, this method is used where the less visible teeth also need straightening and, generally, are likely to have to be worn for a longer period of time. This is offset, of course, by their convenience factor.
The type of orthodontic system to be used will be decided following a consultation with our Burton family dentist. We will also advise you on aftercare, and how to keep your teeth clean whilst wearing your new braces, especially in the case of the ‘wire and brackets’ versions.
If you have crooked or uneven teeth, why not take the opportunity to correct them with one of our range of discreet dental braces? Simply call Mike Allen’s Dental Practice on 01283 845345 for an appointment.