Most people want straight teeth, but many consider getting traditional metal braces as adults childish or embarrassing. As a professional climbing the corporate ladder, what will people’s impressions be?
Orthodontics has come a far way since its first introduction and offers a multitude of treatment plans suited to the needs of the individual.
One such option is clear braces, which are as effective but work discreetly for their self-conscious wearer.
How do they look?
Comprising of tooth-coloured porcelain and a white archwire, there is far less metal involved, which is a. more comfortable for you and b. far more visually appealing.
Do they work the same as “normal” braces?
Traditional and clear braces might differ in appearance, but they work in much the same way. Brackets are glued to the enamel of your teeth and then connected with a barely visible wire. The connector wires place pressure on your teeth and move them, over time, into the desired position. Like the traditional kind, you will need to visit your orthodontist every few months to have them tightened.
Are Invisible (Invisalign) and clear braces the same?
Their function to move teeth into their desired position is the only commonality that these two have, as well as their discreet, barely visible appearance.
The most significant difference between the two is that Invisalign retainers are removable while the ceramic braces are fixed on your teeth for the duration of your treatment.
There are pros and cons to both forms of treatment, but ceramic braces are better suited for customers with more complicated issues that the restrictions of Invisalign are unable to fix. Another advantage of the latter is that treatment time is often shorter. The irremovable nature, unlike that of invisible braces, of ceramic brackets means you do not have to remember to put them back or worry about misplacing your aligners. For this reason, treatment time is not influenced by extraneous factors, like the discipline of the wearer.
Possible disadvantages
These are much the same as conventional braces.
Having your wires tightened every few months causes temporary discomfort, not to mention scraping between the skin and metal does occurring, resulting in sores, ulcers and scratches.
While also a benefit, their fixed nature can get in the way of your lifestyle. Hard food should be avoided at all costs, and cleaning your teeth is a time-consuming process as you attempt removing morsels wedged in your wires.
And speaking of food, there is always the possibility of having food stuck between your teeth without your knowledge, which can be the cause of your embarrassment as you discover it later on looking into the mirror.
Health benefits
Besides enhancing your beautiful smile, having straight teeth is good for your health and makes for better oral hygiene.
Cleaning your teeth is easier as you can now reach those previously hard to reach places, meaning less harmful bacteria, less plaque build-up and better-smelling breath.
Fixing crooked teeth is a life investment that you will not regret, but people, often grown-ups, dislike how they look with braces. Advancements made in orthodontics means you now have alternatives from which to choose, that look better, feel better and work as effectively.
