Having a smile that is not quite right can chip away at a person’s confidence. If they have teeth that are not straight, or that are stained and misshapen, then they may feel self-conscious about smiling and engaging with others. This can prevent them from meeting their potential at work, socially and even in terms of meeting a romantic partner. Braces or veneers from the dentist in Tunbridge Wells can be instrumental in resolving these issues and restoring a person’s confidence. This guide explains how both treatments can help, allowing people to make a more informed decision about what may be best for them.
Traditional braces
These braces, with wires and brackets, have been used for decades to straighten people’s teeth. They remain a popular choice to this day as they work very well and can be the solution to virtually any orthodontic issue.
The patient who would like to enjoy the great results of traditional braces, but who is concerned about feeling self-conscious during treatment should consider Incognito braces. These are also made up of wires and brackets, but instead of being fitted to the front of the teeth, they are secured behind the teeth. This means that they are very difficult to detect by others, making them a good choice for older patients who do not want to have to explain their treatment to work colleagues and the like.
Clear braces
Clear braces are also often known as Invisalign, one particular brand name. These are completely different to the traditional ones in that no wires are used. Instead, the patient wears trays of clear plastic over the teeth. The trays, also called aligners, are worn for a couple of weeks before being swapped for a new set.
These braces are invisible, which makes them a good option for any patient who wants to keep their orthodontic treatment to themselves. They are also removable, which means that the wearer can continue to enjoy their favourite foods as usual and even take part in hobbies such as contact sports.
Treatment with invisible braces is usually quite quick compared to other types of braces. Many patients have straight teeth after a matter of months instead of having to commit to a couple of years or more of treatment.
Invisible aligners offer more convenience than traditional braces. Those with wires need to be manually adjusted by the dentist or orthodontist at regular intervals, so the patient has to make time for those appointments. Instead of manual adjustments, the patient simply gets a new set of aligners every few weeks and can get on with life as normal.
Veneers
Veneers are often used to correct issues of uneven and misshapen teeth. They are a good alternative to braces for some patients. One of the biggest advantages of treatment with veneers is that it can be completed in just a couple of appointments, saving the patient time. The results are instant. There is no waiting around for gradual changes. The dentist applies the porcelain covers to the teeth and the patient has an immediately improved smile.
