Society is beginning to find it very interesting to seek a teeth-straightening treatment, and this due to invisible orthodontics.

Previously, children and young adolescents were the ones who underwent orthodontic treatment the most. This population is less upset by the appearance of certain devices in the mouth, and the aesthetic remains a minor problem. Nowadays, orthodontic treatments are available for people of all ages. But adults and teenagers are more aware of their smiles.

If you are among this population, know that new orthodontics options offer more practical solutions, more discreet and less noticeable treatments in the mouth. This is the so-called invisible or aesthetic orthodontics that you can find in a large number of dental clinics.

Lingual braces: a discrete option

Lingual bracesLingual orthodontics is a standard appliance for straightening teeth. However, braces are placed behind teeth rather than in front of them. This location keeps the appliance hidden, and the smile does not seem “decorated”.

Built according to the patient’s mouth, lingual braces (or brackets) are fitted on the inner side of the teeth and connected by a metallic wire. This wire is changed or reactivated every 4 to 12 weeks, as it would be done with conventional braces. At first, we feel a slight discomfort of the tongue because it faces the lingual braces; but you get used to it quickly. This technique is one of the best invisible orthodontics alternatives for adults.

It should be noted that having lingual braces is a more expensive treatment than conventional orthodontics. For those on a limited budget, it is sometimes possible to place lingual braces on the upper teeth only, because a smile shows mostly these teeth; and for the lower teeth one can choose conventional orthodontics.

Transparent aligners: Invisalign

InvisalignCalled dental aligners or Invisalign, these aligners are very practical devices. They are transparent; they are easily attached to the teeth and can effortlessly be removed. Invisalign aligners are custom-made, depending on the patient’s dentition. To use them, two important points are to be observed.

They must be worn at all times, day and night, except when eating. They can only be removed for a maximum of 2 hours each day. They must also be replaced every two weeks, and so on until they achieve the desired result. Your dentist, or orthodontist (orthodontic specialist), is the person who can supervise the treatment from beginning to end.

These Invisalign aligners are a simpler and more aesthetic alternative when compared to lingual orthodontics. They are very practical because it is possible to remove them to eat. Moreover, when the aligners are removed, it is easier to brush and floss your teeth. Oral hygiene is then easier and more effective than when you have conventional orthodontics. On the other hand, it is very important to be disciplined and to wear them at least 22 hours a day if you want to avoid damaging results.