Orthodontic conditions
Orthodontic conditions have been with humanity since ancient times. One of the earliest sources of evidence for this is an archaeological sample of human remains, which are older than 50,000 years. These remains were found to have an orthodontic condition, which we would think of as crooked teeth. While these conditions have been present in humans since ancient times, and numerous famous ancient physicians have described them, none of them were able to suggest a suitable approach for treating these conditions. Orthodontics as a field only established itself during the previous three centuries to ours. There are various different orthodontic conditions, ranging in severity from cosmetic issues to debilitating conditions with severe consequences if left untreated. If you think you have some type of orthodontic condition, make sure that an orthodontist evaluates its severity, as it is sometimes difficult to tell whether treatment is required. If you would like to get braces Liverpool, a consultation with a dentist will enable you to decide the way forward which is best suited for your situation.
Metal braces
These braces are still maybe the most popular type due to their universal applicability to any orthodontic condition and their relatively low cost. The principles they work on are relatively simple to understand on the surface: the orthodontist uses a dental adhesive to attach a bracket onto the external surface of each tooth. After this is completed, your orthodontist will bind these brackets together with a metal archwire. The purpose of the archwire is to exert pressure on the teeth, which loosens them slightly, allowing for their movement into their appropriate position. Periodically the orthodontist has to adjust the tension on this archwire, thus allowing for the progression of the treatment. Due to the aesthetic concerns and comfort issues associated by some patients with metal braces, a number of alternatives are now on the market.
Invisible aligners
Invisible aligners are plastic trays, which fit on the surface of the teeth and thus exert pressure on them. One of the main brands of invisible aligners is Invisalign. The aligners manufactured by Invisalign are made out of a transparent plastic, therefore it is very hard to notice them from an outsider’s perspective. During the treatment multiple aligners are made, which adjust the direction and size of the pressure exerted on the teeth. The main benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are barely visible, they are removable, and are fairly comfortable due to their smooth plastic surface. However, only mild to moderate conditions can be treated with Invisalign, and unfortunately some tooth types can also disqualify patients from getting Invisalign.
Invisible or clear braces
Invisible braces work on the same principles as metal braces do. They consist of brackets and an archwire, which binds the brackets together and regulates the direction and strength of the pressure. However, the main difference is that unlike metal braces, invisible braces are made out of transparent or tooth coloured materials. The brackets are usually tooth coloured, while the archwires are usually transparent plastic strings, thus reducing the visibility of these braces. If you are interested in getting braces contact your dentist, as they will have a variety of treatment options available to suit every patient’s individual needs.
