Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry, which specialises to the treatment of misaligned teeth and sometimes even jaws, however these conditions are rarer. These conditions have been present in humans and animals alike since ancient times: one of the earliest evidence of this, a sample of human remains is over 50,000 years old. Despite this fact humanity was unable to treat these conditions appropriately until relatively recent times. The main advancements of this field happened only in the past 300 years.
One of the biggest milestones of relatively recent times was the invention of dental adhesives during the 1970s, as it facilitated the widespread use of the metal braces with brackets we all know today. There are numerous orthodontic conditions, each of which requires unique treatment plans designed by an orthodontist. However, not all orthodontic conditions are severe, as there are numerous conditions that only qualify as a cosmetic condition. It is very important though, to make an orthodontist evaluate your conditions to make an informed decision on whether you would like to get treatment or not.
If you would like to get your teeth straightened by an orthodontist in Liverpool, book an appointment with the Liverpool Smile Studio today.
Metal braces
These are the etalons of braces. They became popular in the 1970s with the invention of dental adhesives and the increasing replacement of precious metals with stainless steel in the field. Metal braces work based on relatively simple principles. Your orthodontist attaches small metal appliances to the surface of your teeth called brackets using a special dental adhesive. Once this is done, a metal archwire is used to bind the teeth together.
As the treatment progresses, your orthodontist will periodically have to increase or adjust the tension, and thus the force and its direction exerted on your teeth. One of the main benefits of metal braces is their relatively low cost to other treatments and their universal applicability to practically any orthodontic condition. Disadvantages include a metallic aftertaste and mild to moderate discomfort associated with the treatment, however this does not mean that other treatments come without discomfort. If you would like to get your orthodontic conditions treated by an orthodontist in Liverpool, do not hesitate to get in touch with the Liverpool Smile Studio and book an appointment for a consultation session with them.
Invisible aligners
Invisible aligners are an innovative way of treating orthodontic conditions. One of the first and most established brands of invisible aligners is Invisalign. These appliances are shells that fit on each dental arch perfectly. As they are made out of a transparent plastic, it is very hard to notice them from an external observer’s point of view. The aligners are removable, therefore cleaning them and preventing them from getting stained by e.g. coffee, wine, tea or cigarettes is fairly easy.
During the treatment a number of the aligners are made to allow the treatment’s progression. It is necessary to wear the aligners at least 22 hours every day for maximum efficiency. There are countless benefits of Invisalign, but unfortunately not all conditions are treatable with it. Book a consultation session with the Liverpool Smile Studio to find out more information and whether you are a suitable candidate for getting Invisalign.