Orthodontics to enhance your smile and improve your health!
Orthodontic treatment has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only can it improve the appearance of your smile, but it can also have a positive impact on your oral health and overall well-being. A straight smile will no doubt improve your self-confidence and that in turn may have a positive impact in other areas of your life, both personal and professional.
When it comes to oral health, if your teeth are crowded or crooked, it can be difficult to brush and floss them effectively and this can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. After the straightening effects of orthodontic treatment, it is usually much easier to clean your teeth properly and maintain good oral hygiene. Did you know that improved oral hygiene could also have a positive impact on your overall health? Studies have demonstrated that poor oral health has been linked to a variety of systemic health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. Similarly, having straighter teeth can also reduce the risk of gum disease because of the ability to maintain better cleaning routine. It just shows how important at-home oral hygiene habits are and what a role they play in your physical health on so many levels.
From a more structural point of view, orthodontic treatment is effective for correcting bite issues that can affect our speech and chewing ability, as well as creating unpleasant jaw pain. A misaligned bite often causes damaging tooth wear which can lead to chipped, cracked or worn down teeth.
Different types of orthodontic treatments: braces vs invisalign
Unlike days of old, modern dentistry now offers a wide range of options when it comes to teeth straightening, whether you prefer traditional metal braces, ceramic fixed braces or modern aligner therapy with Invisalign, for example. The type of treatment that is best for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. We always recommend consulting with an orthodontic expert to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs.
Traditional metal braces, whereby individual metal brackets are attached to teeth and threaded with wires, are still a popular option, especially for children’s orthodontic treatment. During the treatment period the wires are gradually tightened to move the teeth into the desired positions.
However, as demand for more comfortable and discreet orthodontic options increased, so has the range of treatment options. White ceramic braces are similar in structure to traditional braces, but are made of a tooth-coloured material that makes them much less noticeable and people often report less issues with discomfort compared to the metal braces.
In our experience, Invisalign has become the most popular teeth straightening option for our patients because it offers fast and effective teeth straightening results using clear plastic aligners that are virtually invisible to the naked eye! Invisalign is the perfect option for busy professional who need to impress and self-conscious teens who don’t want to stand out! The removable Invisalign aligners are custom-made for every patent and need to be worn for 22 hours a day. The great news is that they are really easy to take out during meal times and to clean each day, so they score highly on both a performance and convenience scale. Your dentist will provide you with a series of aligners throughout your treatment journey and they will gradually move your teeth into their desired positions.
Invisalign Rickmansworth - book your FREE consultation today!
At The Rickmansworth Clinic we are delighted to offer patients FREE Invisalign consultations to support you in making an informed decision abut teeth straightening treatment.
You can find out more by clicking here >> Your Invisalign Journey.
In conclusion, orthodontic treatment can of course be a significant investment, but the long-term health benefits must not be overlooked. Straighter teeth mean healthier teeth. And the resulting improved overall oral hygiene means better health all round and cost savings on possible future dental procedures that can be avoided. If you are considering teeth straightening for yourself or someone in your family, please call the practice today on 01923 710600 and we’ll be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
