Fashion and Orthodontics have never really gone hand in hand, until now that is! With a host of celebrities undergoing orthodontic treatment and a perfect smile an essential accessory for the catwalk, braces have never been more popular. The good news for fashion conscious people is that there is now a plethora of treatment options, so you don’t have to put up with an unsightly brace to get a flawless smile.
In the last decade, the range of treatments available to patients with issues such as crowded and crooked teeth, a gappy smile or an under bite, has increased significantly and this is a really exciting time for patients who are desperate for corrective treatment. Whether you’re interested in a fast solution or you’re reluctant to go for anything that is remotely visible, there are amazing solutions out there. Here are some of the best options for those looking for substance and style:
Clear aligners
Clear aligners systems, such as Clearstep, Simpli5 and Invisalign, have enjoyed major success in the USAand the UK. They offer a removable alternative to a traditional brace, as they employ a series of aligners to move the teeth. These aligners slip over the teeth and they are made from clear plastic, so they can barely be seen when you smile. This means you can enjoy the treatment process without worrying about how it will affect your looks or the image you portray. Aligners are suitable for many patients, but they may not be the best option for those with more complex problems.
Celebrity fans of clear aligners include Justin Bieber, Khloe Kardashian, Zac Efron and Gisele Bundchen.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are the ultimate choice for the image conscious patient because they offer complete invisibility when you smile. This goal is achieved by placing the braces on the back of the teeth. Lingual braces are suitable for patients with all kinds of orthodontic issues, they can be worn by teenagers and adults and they can be fitted to the top and bottom teeth. The leading lingual brace systems available at the moment include Incognito, which is aimed at patients with moderate or complex needs, and STb Social 6, which is a great option for those with mild issues.
Clear braces
Fixed braces are often recommended for patients who need a lot of movement and those with issues with the bite, but this doesn’t mean that you have to be lumbered with ugly braces for ages. Now, there are some really discreet braces available, including 6 Month Smiles, Damon Clear and CFast, so you can enjoy all the advantages of fixed brace treatment and amazing aesthetics at the same time.
Which brace is best for me?
It’s understandable to be apprehensive about having braces, especially if you’re image conscious, you’re worried about how others will perceive your new look or your job involves face to face contact, but modern treatments enable you to enjoy a new smile with minimum impact on your looks. The treatment options available to you are often dictated by your treatment needs, as some systems are geared towards specific problems and some are only suitable for minor issues.
Once you have had a consultation with your orthodontist and they have assesses your needs, you will have a much better idea of the kind of options that are available to you. You may already have ideas in mind, or you may be waiting for professional advice. Your dentist will be able to talk you through the different methods and highlight the pros and cons of each to enable you to make a decision.
