A shocking 43% of Brits wish they could change the appearance of their smile. People should not let their smile affect their confidence. Why not investigate your options [offered by our top orthodontists and Invisalign doctor]– you could be surprised.

As dental technology evolves, the way different treatments are carried out is becoming more sophisticated, including teeth straightening. Unsightly methods of straightening teeth are becoming a thing of the past as modern advanced techniques are becoming available in more dental practices.

The team at London Dental Arts in Forest Hill shares a short guide on teeth straightening options.

Older methods

Many people are unhappy with their smiles; over a quarter of people feel so conscious that they avoid smiling in photographs. People often feel frustrated by how their teeth look yet do not get treatment because they do not want to wear a visible brace that will knock their confidence even further.

Traditional teeth straightening and orthodontic treatments can also bring back bad memories for some of us. Whether it was the time, you embarrassingly got food stuck in your brace or the inevitable lisp you got from wearing a retainer. These are memories you would rather forget.

These traditional methods of teeth straightening include:

• Fixed braces, commonly used for severe crowdings, are made of metal brackets while joined together with wire to line your teeth up. It is still prevalent and is often offered to under-18s through the NHS for free.
• Removable braces – usually used for less severe crowding, a removable brace can be made up of a plastic plate with wire clips and springs to attach to the teeth. However, these are still used; they are only recommended if teeth do not require much work.
• Retainer, a more discreet option, is usually recommended following a fixed brace.
• Headgear is a visible brace that attaches the head to position back teeth. This teeth-straightening method was trendy during the seventies but has since become used less frequently.

Fortunately, advanced methods are more readily available, which means people no longer have to grin and bear it while feeling conscious of their braces.

New techniques

Clear fixed braces

This type of brace is becoming increasingly popular and is usually only available privately. It has the same effect and function as a fixed brace; however, ceramic or clear brackets are attached to the teeth, blending into the teeth. Some providers also use tooth-coloured wires to make the braces even less noticeable.

This brace is not invisible, but it is much more discreet than traditional “train track” braces. Although clear braces are noticeable to others, they aim to blend into your teeth for a more concealed effect.

Invisalign

For those that do not want visible braces, Invisalign could be the solution. The innovative Invisalign technology allows you to have custom-made aligners replaced every couple of weeks as your teeth gradually move and line up. However, the best part is that they are made out of clear plastic.

The aligners are barely noticeable and slot over your teeth. You will be advised to wear them at all times apart from when you are eating. In most cases, the treatment will last between nine and 15 months, depending on the condition of your teeth.

They are comfortable to wear, and you will likely find that they cause little disruption to your life.