If your dentist has just told you that you need braces to fix your misaligned teeth, your first would probably be their conspicuous, metallic appearance. If yes, you are not alone. The fact is that many people simply avoid getting braces because they don’t want to have a “metal mouth” appearance.
But, thanks to modern dentistry, it is now possible to get your teeth straightened without having to wear those unaesthetic traditional braces. Today, several less conspicuous orthodontic treatment options are available to fix your misaligned teeth. So, if you are also searching for the answer to “how to make braces less visible”, this article is for you. Read on to learn more about aesthetic orthodontic treatment options.
How Can Braces Affect Your Facial Structure?
Braces are attached to the front surface of each tooth. Each bracket contains a slot through which an orthodontic wire passes and connects them. The pressure generated by the orthodontic wire is transferred to the teeth and then to the underlying jawbone. Research has shown that whenever pressure is applied to the bones, they undergo remodelling – a process in which bone loss occurs at one place and new bone formation takes place at the other end. So, this is how braces change one’s facial structure, and this is also why we observe a significant change in one’s facial appearance during and after orthodontic treatment.
What Will I Do To Close The Gap Between My Teeth?
There are various options available close gaps between the teeth. The ideal choice is orthodontic treatment. This is because an orthodontist will first diagnose the underlying problem and then take measures to fix it. On the other hand, if someone cannot afford orthodontic treatment or if they are unwilling to wait for so long for the treatment to be completed, there is another alternative: cosmetic dentistry. Your dentist can use tooth-coloured composite restorations or porcelain veneers to close the gaps. However, it must be kept in mind that cosmetic treatment only fixes the aesthetic issue and does not eliminate the underlying problem.
Will Braces Make Me Look Ugly?
Traditional braces are made of stainless steel. Therefore, they tend to have a conspicuous metallic appearance. Unfortunately, metallic braces become visible whenever one speaks or smiles. This is the reason why many people avoid getting braces. However, if you are concerned that metallic braces will affect your smile or appearance, you can benefit from other, less conspicuous options like ceramic or lingual braces or clear aligners. You can consult your orthodontist regarding the most suitable choice for realigning your teeth.
How Do I Smile With My Mouth Closed?
Braces wearers often try to smile with their mouths closed – in an attempt to hide their metal braces. Unfortunately, while it may be possible to smile slightly with your mouth closed, hiding your braces would be virtually impossible if you want to laugh or show a full smile. So, you can only keep your mouth closed when you don’t show a full smile.
Is Invisalign Really Better Than Braces?
Invisalign offers various advantages over clear braces. For example, Invisalign aligners are removable; you can remove them easily whenever you want to eat anything or brush your teeth. Similarly, Invisalign aligners cause less pain and discomfort the fixed clear braces. Finally, Invisalign aligners do not have dietary restrictions, unlike clear braces. Having said that, each orthodontic treatment option has its own merits and demerits. So, you should consult your dentist or orthodontist about whether clear braces or Invisalign aligners would be suitable for your treatment.
How Are Ceramic Braces Better Than Metal Braces?
Ceramic braces have one distinct advantage over metal braces; their inconspicuousness. Ceramic braces are made of tooth-coloured dental ceramics. As a result, ceramic braces blend in with the natural teeth and become virtually invisible, unlike metal braces. Another advantage of ceramic braces is that they are less painful and cause lesser discomfort than metal braces.
Which Is Better, Removable Braces Or Fixed Braces?
As discussed earlier, every orthodontic treatment option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Fixed braces are a reliable and time-tested option, and they can be used to treat even the most complex orthodontic issues, particularly metal braces. On the other hand, removable braces are less conspicuous, and they offer superior comfort and convenience compared to fixed braces. However, your orthodontist is the best person to advise regarding the most suitable treatment option for you.
What Do Clear Braces Look Like?
Clear braces are mainly made of two materials; a clear polymer material or a tooth-coloured ceramic material. The ultimate aesthetic outcome of both types of clear braces is that they become virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Therefore, you can wear them to a meeting, a conference, and even on a date without worrying about showing your braces.
Do Clear Braces Stain? How Can You Prevent It If So?
Yes, ceramic braces, although quite stain-resistant, do get stained ultimately. The best way to prevent the staining of clear braces is to ensure optimal oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing. Also, strong-coloured foods must be avoided as they accelerate the staining process.
If you reside in Ely or surrounding areas and you’re looking for the best orthodontic practice in town, Ely Smiles should be your first choice. Our experienced and qualified dentists will ensure that your orthodontic treatment gives you a healthy, lasting, and charming smile. So, book an online or in-person appointment with us today and let us take care of the rest.
