Braces

Braces are a dental appliance used to straighten and align teeth, improve oral function, and enhance the overall appearance of the smile. 

They consist of:

1. Brackets: Small squares attached to each tooth
2. Archwire: A thin metal wire that runs across the brackets
3. Ligatures (or rubber bands): Small elastic bands that hold the archwire in place
4. Bands (optional): Small metal rings that fit around the back teeth

Braces work by applying gentle pressure over time to:

• Move teeth into proper position
• Improve bite alignment
• Enhance oral function and aesthetics

Types of braces include:

1. Traditional metal braces
2. Ceramic braces (clear)
3. Clear aligners (removable, like Invisalign)
4. Self-Ligating braces
5. Invisalign (clear, removable aligners)

Braces are commonly used to treat:

• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
• Gaps between teeth
• Teeth grinding and clenching

Invisalign/Invisible Braces 

Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners used for orthodontic treatment.  

It is made from a flexible thermoplastic material named SmartTrack. Invisalign can be used for crowding and spacing issues, as well as some mild and moderate bite issues. 

How Invisalign works?

Invisalign works through a series of custom-made, removable aligners that gradually move teeth into their desired position. 

Here's a step-by-step explanation:

• Consultation: An orthodontist or dentist assesses your teeth and discusses your goals.
• Digital Scan: A digital scan of your teeth is created using an iTero scanner or similar technology.
• Treatment Plan: The scan is used to create a personalized treatment plan, including the desired movement of your teeth.
• Aligner Creation: A series of aligners are fabricated based on the treatment plan, each designed to move your teeth incrementally.
• Wearing Aligners: You wear each aligner for 1-2 weeks, 22 hours a day, to gradually move your teeth.
• Tooth Movement: The aligners apply gentle pressure to move your teeth into their new position.
• Progress Checks: Regular appointments with your orthodontist or dentist monitor progress and switch to new aligners.
• Final Result: After completing the aligner series, your teeth are in their desired position, achieving a beautiful, healthy smile!

Invisalign uses advanced technology, including:

• SmartTrack® material: Flexible and comfortable aligner material
• ClinCheck® software: Visualizes treatment progress and outcome
• Itero® scanner: Creates accurate digital scans of your teeth

By combining these innovations, Invisalign delivers a convenient, effective, and discreet orthodontic solution.

Here are some pros and cons of Invisalign:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, providing a discreet orthodontic solution.
• Removability: Invisalign aligners are removable, providing flexibility in eating and facilitating easier oral hygiene practices.
• Comfortable Fit: Invisalign aligners are custom-made for a comfortable and snug fit, eliminating the potential for irritation or discomfort.
• Shorter Treatment Duration: Invisalign may offer a shorter treatment duration compared to traditional braces.
• Improved Oral Health: Invisalign aligners can be removed for oral hygiene practices, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum issues.
• Predictable Results: Invisalign treatment involves advanced digital technology to create a step-by-step plan for teeth movement, allowing individuals to visualise the expected results.
• Enhanced Confidence: Invisalign aligners contribute to an aesthetically pleasing orthodontic experience, boosting confidence in social and professional interactions.
• Flexibility in Lifestyle: Invisalign aligners can be easily removed for special occasions or professional events, providing flexibility to adapt to various lifestyle demands.

Here are some drawbacks of Invisalign:

• High-maintenance hygiene regimen required
• High cost 
• Inconvenient when eating out, as the aligners need to be removed
• Must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to be effective
• Requires some attachments or tooth-colored buttons for moderate to severe cases
• Not suitable for people with severe jaw alignment issues
• Requires a long treatment plan (six to 24 months)
• Invisalign is not available for people with missing teeth
• Retainer use required indefinitely following treatment.

Invisalign is not suitable for everyone. The following individuals may not be candidates for Invisalign:

1. Severe jaw alignment issues: Invisalign is best for mild to moderate cases. Severe jaw issues require more advanced treatments.
2. Missing teeth: Invisalign is designed for teeth straightening, not for replacing missing teeth.
3. Significant bite issues: Invisalign can address minor bite issues, but significant problems require alternative treatments.
4. Teeth with large fillings or crowns: Invisalign may not be effective for teeth with extensive restorations.
5. Teeth with severe rotation or tilting: Invisalign can handle minor rotations, but severe cases require traditional braces or other treatments.
6. Children and teens with developing teeth: Invisalign is typically recommended for adults and teens with fully developed teeth.
7. Patients with certain dental work: Invisalign may not be suitable for patients with dental implants, bridges, or certain types of dental crowns.
8. Patients with periodontal disease: Invisalign is not recommended for patients with active gum disease or periodontal issues.
9. Patients with teeth with short roots: Invisalign may not be effective for teeth with short roots, as it can cause further root resorption.