Tag Archives: braces in manchester

Invisible Braces in Manchester – Are They Right For Me?

Chances are if you’re reading this post or a lingual braces blog then your smile is not something you’re happy with. In fact, the figures show that you’re not alone, almost half of the population in the UK would love to improve their smile. This being the case, many people find themselves looking for braces in Manchester or researching Invisalign braces. Manchester residents may also feel that it’s too late to fix their teeth, or that it will take too long, or be too embarrassing. That’s where Invisible braces come to the rescue. Let’s take a look at two of the most popular discreet braces on the market today – Lingual Braces and Invisalign.

Both Invisalign and Lingual Braces are extremely popular nowadays due to their aesthetic advantages. They are very discreet and as a result, the wearer can often complete treatment without anybody even noticing. While we often find that patients have narrowed their options down between these two, it’s also important to understand why they’re different?

The biggest difference is that lingual braces use metal wires and brackets that are fixed to the back surfaces of the teeth, while with Invisalign braces, Manchester patients use a series of clear removable aligners that are worn over the teeth.

So is one better than the other?

In short, no! These braces are so different that it’s difficult to choose the overall winner. The right choice often depends on your preference and individual case. The only way to know for certain is by having a consultation with your dentist, who can recommend which type of brace will provide the best results for you personally. In the meantime though, let’s take a closer look at the In’s and out’s of these appliances to help you gain a better understanding of each.

Firstly, Invisalign Braces

When looking for braces in Manchester, many people may have come across Invisalign already, but they aren’t sure what they are, and more importantly, how they work?

The main benefit of Invisalign is that it’s an incredibly discreet way to straighten teeth without the use of any metal wires. It works by using a series of clear and removable aligners that are worn over the top of the teeth to slowly move them little by little into their final position. Unlike Lingual Braces which require just one fixed brace for the duration of the treatment, you have the responsibility to replace your existing aligner for the next one in the series, every two weeks. The Aligners are custom-made specifically for each individual and are smooth and comfortable to wear. With Invisalign braces, Manchester patients may also need the help of some small buttons which are attached to the teeth in order to achieve particular movements, but being tooth coloured, they remain hardly noticeable.

Some prefer a removable brace instead of a fixed one. The main reason is the when the aligner is removed it’s far easier to clean and floss your teeth thoroughly. This is instead of trying to squeeze your toothbrush between wires and brackets.

In addition, people also like the fact that you must remove the brace whilst eating and drinking. This means that unlike fixed braces, you no longer have to avoid certain foods. It’s also handy when it comes to special occasions as you don’t have to be wearing them if you don’t want to. Just make sure they’re in position for a minimum of 20 hours a day.

The ClinCheck provided with Invisalign is another great advantage for patients too. Your treatment is carefully planned from beginning to end using the latest CAD/CAM software. This enables you to see how your teeth will look after treatment using a digital representation of your teeth.

Lingual Braces

If you’ve been doing your research on braces in Manchester, or have been reading a lingual braces blog, you may already know that unlike Invisalign, lingual braces require the use of wires and brackets. However, what’s great is that they’re completely hidden from sight because they’re fitted behind the teeth. This means it has all the advantages of a fixed brace but yet offers faster treatment times. In fact, some lingual braces can be nearly 30% quicker. This is because modern technology ensures precision tooth movements which allow the teeth to move more directly into their new position, faster. Lingual braces are custom-made for each individual patient, so they always fit the inside of the teeth comfortably. In addition, they achieve great results by applying gentle and continuous pressure to gradually shift the teeth.

Lingual braces help treat a wide range of dental problems such as overcrowding, rotation of teeth, closing spaces and the malocclusions. If unsuitable for Invisalign braces, Manchester patients often find lingual braces are a great alternative as they’re able to treat more complex movements of the teeth.

For many of our patients, the deciding factor to have lingual braces is because they are fixed to the teeth for the full duration of treatment. This eliminates the risk of losing the brace and also means that it’s always hard at work. Some people struggle with the temptation to remove their aligners too often which can impact the end result and the length of treatment.

Although you may have done plenty of research, reading websites about braces in Manchester or a lingual braces blog, the best way to find out for certain which option is best suited for you personally is by visiting us for a consultation. Call us on 0161 660 1218 or fill in the booking form on our website to arrange an appointment. Whether you choose fixed lingual braces or Invisalign braces, Manchester-based Church Road Dental and Cosmetics are happy to help.

Orthodontic Manchester Treatment – Understanding Teeth Braces

When you’re told you might need orthodontic Manchester treatment it can seem pretty daunting and you’ll probably want a lot more information before deciding whether or not to go ahead. For instance, we’re frequently answering questions such as “Does wearing braces in Manchester hurt?” or “How long does Invisalign Manchester take to work?” That said we know that having a good understanding of how teeth braces work and how they can help you, makes the process much less daunting and can better prepare you for your orthodontic journey towards a healthier smile. With this in mind, here are some of the most common FAQ’s answered.

Is there an ideal age for orthodontic treatment?

Chronologically speaking there is no specific age when it’s best to get braces. The fact is that whether you’re nine or ninety, teeth can be moved at any age with the right treatment. That said, adult teeth may take slightly longer to move because they have denser bone mass and a lower metabolic rate and there are certain things that cannot be accomplished once the jaw stops fully growing. Therefore children between the ages of ten and fifteen are considered the best age to incorporate any early orthodontic intervention, but adults can still benefit greatly.

Does wearing teeth braces hurt?

With advancements in technology orthodontic braces in Manchester have been made smaller and are more comfortable than their predecessors. For example, with Invisalign, Manchester patients get to wear invisible lightweight aligners which are designed to be fully removable. This is in contrast to the heavier metal style braces of old which were permanently attached to the teeth. As such, problems such as catching on the tongue and rubbing on the gum are now pretty much eradicated. That said, where patients may feel some slight discomfort is when the braces have just been adjusted or (in the case of Invisalign) a new aligner fitted. This usually lasts for a few days only and can normally be brought under control using over-the-counter painkillers.

How long does orthodontic Manchester treatment last?

Orthodontic treatment in Manchester varies from one patient to another depending on the severity of their condition. As a result, there is no set time. In cases where a patient has a slight aesthetic problem with their smile such as a crooked or unevenly spaced front tooth, then they may only need fast or accelerated orthodontic treatment. In this case, it may take as little as 6-12 weeks. Conversely, if a patent has more severe malocclusions then treatment can take 2-3 years. Generally speaking, for short-term treatment the average is 4-6 months and for longer term treatment the average wear time is 18 months.

Can I eat a normal diet?

In essence, the answer is yes, but you may want to avoid certain hard or sticky foods. Sticky foods such as toffee can cause damage because it can stick to your tooth braces and cause tooth decay. Whereas harder foods such as boiled sweets, raw carrots, and ice cubes have been known to break teeth braces. In addition, avoiding foods which are high in sugar is a good idea because plaque can get lodged in between the braces making it harder to reach with a normal toothbrush. As a result in some cases, tooth decay can occur. That said, braces such as the Inman Aligner and Invisalign Manchester are designed to be removed every time you eat and drink. This means that wearers can continue to eat what they like provided they brush their teeth before placing the aligner back in the mouth.

How often do I need to visit the orthodontist once treatment is underway?

Once your braces in Manchester have been fitted you can expect to return to the practice every 4-6 weeks for adjustment. Even with removable aligners such as Invisalign, which are replaced every two weeks by the patient, they can still expect to return to the practice periodically for progress checks to ensure that teeth are moving where and how they should be. This way any problems or issues can be addressed early on before they become complicated to fix.

Do I have to wear a mouthful of metal?

The good news is that orthodontic Manchester treatment has evolved over the past decade or so and nowadays orthodontic manufacturers recognise the need for discretion. After all, not everyone wants to be seen sporting a mouth full of metal. Appliances such as lingual braces which are worn behind the teeth and the clear acrylic nature of Invisalign means that in these cases, the only people needing to know about your braces is you and your orthodontist. Ceramic braces using tooth coloured brackets and wiring are also popular and can help eradicate that metal smile.

So can I lead a normal life?

Absolutely yes! Modern day braces in Manchester allow you to do exactly that. There’s nothing to stop people from leading a normal healthy life as you should still be able to exercise and play a sport. That said for certain contact sports such as rugby or American football, it’s advisable for patients to wear a mouth guard. In addition (especially with removable braces) patients are advised to clean their teeth after every meal. However aside from that there really shouldn’t be a problem.

Will I need a retainer after treatment?

Yes! Retainers are an integral part of the overall treatment and they continue to keep the teeth straight once treatment is complete. Moreover, they help the muscles and tissues adapt to the new position so that the teeth don’t revert to their previous form. Depending on the degree and seriousness of your condition, your retainer may at first have to be worn permanently for several months, but after a period of time, it may only need to be worn on some occasions at night. Either way, your orthodontist will advise you on the best course of action when your treatment is coming to an end, so don’t worry!

So there you have it. Hopefully, this has answered some of the most frequently asked questions enabling you to have a better understanding of orthodontic Manchester treatment and what it entails. If you’d like to know more about Invisalign Manchester, or any other type of braces in Manchester then book yourself a consultation with Dr. Karim and the team at Church Road Dental. Remember you shouldn’t have to endure a less than perfect smile, so to make an appointment pick up the phone and dial 0161 660 1218 today.

Adult Braces In Manchester – Are They Worth It?

While many people know children who are currently wearing braces to help correct a bite or straighten teeth, not many people know of other adults who are in the same position. That’s because adult braces in Manchester have been developed extensively in recent years, yet are still relatively unknown. With this in mind, if you’re not entirely happy with your teeth, are adult braces Manchester the way forward? Our Smile dentist Manchester explains……

Provided the right type of orthodontic appliance is used, adult brace systems can treat a wide variety of problems. These include, malocclusions, overcrowding, crooked or flared teeth, and cross bites to name a few. That said, not every appliance is able to treat every treatment and appliances can either be classed as fast (in the case of accelerated orthodontics or slow (in the case of full-term treatments). Because of this you’ll need an experienced orthodontist who will decide on a particular type of appliance that will cure your dental problem and fit in with your requirements.

For instance, if you have an annoying gap in your teeth that’s visible when you smile but your remaining teeth and gums are healthy, you might want to try using accelerated braces in Manchester. These are quick-fire treatments that can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Treatments such as C-Fast, Secret Smiles, and Six Month Smiles are considered some of the most popular, although there are many others.

Alternatively if you have relapsed teeth because you didn’t wear a retainer as a child after having conventional orthodontic braces, your dentist might suggest Inman Aligner braces. Manchester patients will be pleased to know that like other fast treatments, they can take a little as a few weeks to correct any problem.

What about if you have larger underlying problems such as a bad bite or crooked back teeth? Your dentist may suggest full term treatments including conventional metal or ceramic braces. For that added discretion patients have an option of lingual braces which are attached to the back of the teeth rather than the front, or Invisalign removable aligners.

Despite the various types, any smile dentist in Manchester will tell you that all orthodontic treatment straightens teeth using the same principle. This is to apply sustained gentle force using either retainers or wiring to move the teeth back into position

For those who really care about how they look, particularly in regard to their smile, adult braces Manchester are definitely worth it. They can ether be used as a quick-fix, aesthetic solution in the form of fast orthodontic treatment, or a long-term holistic solution. Either way, braces in Manchester have the ability to improve lives and boost confidence and that in many respects makes them life changing.

If you’d like to find out more about how our smile dentist Manchester can help you to create that perfect smile using the power of orthodontics, contact us on 0161 660 1218 and book yourself a no-obligation consultation today.

Manchester Invisalign – The Top FAQ’s Answered

As Manchester Invisalign braces are fast becoming the brace of choice for those with misaligned, crooked, or overcrowded teeth, more and more people are looking for information on this particular type of braces in Manchester. With this in mind we thought we’d create a post answering some of the most popular frequently asked questions. So let’s dive straight in…

Why are Invisalign aligners different?

Compared to other orthodontic braces, Manchester Invisalign are different in many ways. Firstly they don’t use brackets and tensioning wires to move teeth like conventional braces. Instead a series

of clear plastic aligners are fashioned to fit snugly over the teeth just like a gum shield. Each aligner gradually and gently pushes the teeth into a certain position before the next aligner in the sequence takes over. This continues until the teeth are finally in the right position.

Secondly, unlike conventional braces which are permanently fixed to the mouth for the duration of the treatment, Invisalign braces are designed to be removed when eating, drinking, and cleaning the teeth. This helps with better oral hygiene and makes cleaning the teeth easier

Finally unlike other braces that are visible when you smile or speak, Invisalign braces in Manchester aren’t. Because they’re made of a thin but strong type of thermo-plastic they can’t be seen by others when the wearer talks or smiles. So to all intent and purpose, they really are invisible.

**What type of conditions can Manchester Invisalign treat?**

Unlike other brace systems Invisalign aligners can treat a whole host of problems ranging from mild cases of protruding or crooked teeth to more serious malocclusions, overbites, and underbites. For this reason whatever your orthodontic condition it’s well worth talking to your dentist about Invisalign braces Manchester.

Is Invisalign treatment painful?

Some people experience a slight degree of discomfort during the first few days when changing aligners. This is normal and is typically described as a feeling of force or pressure on the teeth. However after a day or so any discomfort disappears and patients are able to go about their business as usual. This is a sign that your aligners are carrying out their role of straightening the teeth.

How long does treatment take?

The main thing to note is that Invisalign orthodontic treatment is not a fast or accelerated process. Unlike brace systems such as C-Fast, Secret Smile, and Six Month Smiles, Invisalign is a holistic treatment. This means that as well as straightening the teeth that are visible it also helps to correct root positioning and bite alignment. For this reason in Manchester, Invisalign patients will typically find that they wear their aligners for around 12-18 months. However this may change depending on the severity of your condition.

Can I smoke while wearing Invisalign aligners?

Although there’s nothing to stop you from smoking while wearing your aligners, it isn’t advisable. The reason is that the tobacco will stain the aligners turning them from a crystal clear white into an a yellow colour. Clearly they will no longer be invisible and can look unsightly. Instead just like when eating or drinking, it’s advisable to remove them when smoking. Do bear in mind however that for best results, Invisalign braces in Manchester need to be worn for between 20 and 22 hours every day.

I have a crown, can I still opt for Invisalign?

It’s perfectly fine for crowns to be worn during the Invisalign process. In fact crowns can become damaged during the removal process of some fixed orthodontic treatments. Whereas because Invisalign are removable anyway, you won’t have this problem.

**How much does Manchester Invisalign cost?**

Because each Invisalign aligner needs to be custom made, Invisalign treatment is at the higher end of the orthodontic treatment scale. Typically costs range from £1800-£3000 but this depends on the amount of aligners you need and the severity of the problem.

If you’d like to find out more about how Invisalign braces in Manchester can benefit you then come and talk to Church Road Dental and Cosmetics. We’ve been successfully supplying and fitting people with Invisalign braces Manchester for many years, so we have the experience and the skills you need. To book your free consultation contact us on 0161 660 1218 and take the first steps towards achieving that perfect smile.

Orthodontic Braces In Manchester – The Different Types Explained

When we think about orthodontic braces in Manchester, we probably cast our minds back to those metallic ‘train-track style’ braces we wore as children. However when it comes to adult braces, modern dental technology means that orthodontic treatments are not only more comfortable, but more discreet too. This mirrors the needs of those adults looking for a straighter smile.

In Manchester, clear braces for example is the the name given to any orthodontic brace system which is designed to be discreet. This includes traditional braces with tooth coloured brackets and thin wiring, through to aligner style braces such as Manchester Invisalign. As there are so many types and styles available, we thought we’d explain some of the main differences between them.

Bracket and wiring vs aligners

Despite the fact that there are a wide variety of orthodontic treatments on the market, they all carry out the same function. That is to straighten the teeth by applying a gentle force which pushes or pulls the teeth back into their correct position over a period of time. While the majority of orthodontic treatments are variations of the traditional bracket and wiring method, there are other’s such as Invisalign, which do away with this altogether. So what’s the difference?

When it comes to bracket and wiring style brace systems, small brackets are permanently attached to the teeth for the duration of the treatment using a special dental adhesive. Through these brackets is threaded a series of self-tensioning wires. Gradually, over time the wires tighten and as they do, they apply gentle but sustained pressure to the teeth pulling them back into the correct position. Once the treatment is complete the dentist removes the brackets to reveal straighter healthier teeth.

Conversely, aligner style braces such as Manchester Invisalign, do away with brackets and wiring altogether. With Invisalign in particular, the patient receives a series of clear plastic aligners known as trays which are worn over the teeth just like a gum shield. Each one is numbered and the idea is that the first aligner is worn for around 2 weeks and gently pushes the teeth into a pre-determined position allowing the patient to replace it with the next one in the series. The next aligner is worn for another 2 weeks and moves the teeth to the next position and so on, until the last aligner has been worn and treatment is completed. Unlike bracket and wiring style braces, aligners are designed to be easily removable by the patient (A) to enable them to change it for the subsequent aligner in the series and (B) so that they can be taken out when eating and cleaning the teeth. Although aligners such as Invisalign gives wearers the flexibility of being able to remove them, they still need to be worn for at least 20 hours a day for best results.

Manchester clear braces vs traditional metal braces?

As the name suggests clear brace systems such as 6 Month Smiles, Damon Braces and In-Line are designed to be discreet. For this reason they suit many adults who don’t necessarily want to be seen wearing a mouth full of metal. Because they’re made using specialised lightweight materials such as acrylic and porcelain, they are more expensive than say conventional metallic style braces in Manchester. As such patients might need to consider whether their discretion is more important over cost.

What about lingual braces?

Lingual braces are a different entity altogether. They are classed as a bracket and wiring style of brace system, however rather than the brackets and wiring being attached to the front of the teeth, they’re attached to the back. The result is that when the wearer smiles, the brace can’t be seen. Although lingual braces aren’t really Manchester clear braces as such (eg, they aren’t made using tooth coloured brackets and wiring or clear plastic) they are invisible from the front, so friends and work colleagues needn’t know you’re wearing them.

So there you have it, the various types of braces in Manchester explained. Whether you prefer the aligner style brace such as Manchester Invisalign, or the equally discreet variety of Manchester clear braces, we can help you find an orthodontic treatment that helps fulfil your dental needs and your personal requirements. To find out more, contact us on 0161 660 1218 and book a consultation with Shi Karim and the team today.

Are Invisalign Braces In Manchester Worth The Cost?

Are you considering Invisalign braces in Manchester? If you are it might be worth pointing out that they are one of the more expensive orthodontic treatments, ranging anywhere from £1500 to £3500. So the question is, are they really worth the cost? Firstly before we answer this let’s take a look at Invisalign braces Manchester in greater detail.

If you’re looking for a discreet type of orthodontic treatment that doesn’t show others that giveaway metallic smile, then it has to be Invisalign. Manchester dental practices throughout the area are finding that patients who need to undergo orthodontic treatment for longer periods of time will favour Invisalign because of this fact. But that’s not all… they differ in many ways and are about as far removed from conventional train track style braces as they could possibly be.

Aligner style

Firstly it’s classed as an ‘aligner style’ brace system in that it does away with the traditional brackets and wiring system that many people wear. Instead, Invisalign looks more like an invisible sports gum shield rather than a type of orthodontic treatment. Also just like a sports gum shield it happens to be worn over the teeth in a similar kind of way. Because of this design the Invisalign brace can also be removed easily by the wearer every time they eat and drink, with the idea being that it’s placed back onto the teeth immediately after.

More than one element

When you imagine orthodontic braces in Manchester, you probably think of one complete unit that’s permanently attached to the mouth for the duration of the treatment. While this is the case with the majority of brace types, with Invisalign braces, Manchester patients can have up to 48 aligners in total. Each aligner (or tray as it’s otherwise known) is designed to fit over the teeth in a specific sequence throughout the duration of the treatment. After 2 weeks the current tray is discarded, since the teeth will have moved to where they need to be, and replaced with the next one in the sequence. The severity of the dental problem is reflected by the amount of aligners that you’ll have.

“Okay” I hear you say, “I get it but where does the cost come in?”

Tailor made to suit

While many braces are indeed tailored to fit the mouth of an individual patient, nothing comes close to the engineering involved in making Invisalign. Manchester patients for example will first have to undergo a whole series of measurements and impressions of their teeth. These impressions are then sent away to a central laboratory where they’re plotted digitally. The computer image is then sent back to the dentist and the patient so that they can see at any one stage of the treatment what position their teeth should be in and how the end result will look. (A kind of virtual trial smile). If all is okay, then the lab will set to work making each individual aligner in the sequence.

Ultimately what you end up with is a carefully manufactured, almost invisible piece of craftsmanship with each aligner in the series made to fit a specific 2-3 week time period of your treatment. Not only this, because it’s designed to be removed, it gives you the flexibility (within reason) of when you want to wear it. These are the reasons why the Invisalign Aligner is one of the more expensive orthodontic treatments on the market.

If you’d like to find out more about Invisalign, Manchester-based Church Road Dental and Cosmetics can help. With our experienced orthodontics team we can advise you on the most suitable braces in Manchester for you. So if you’re a little confused or overawed about braces, Manchester patients should give us a call. To book a free, no-obligation consultation, contact us on 0121 660 1218 or alternatively, make an appointment online at www.clearbracesmanchester.co.uk

Orthodontic Braces In Manchester – What Are The Various Types?

Few people are fortunate enough to be born with perfect teeth so orthodontic treatment such as Manchester Invisalign or lingual braces Manchester can help to restore a less than perfect smile. The good news for many adults is that braces in Manchester have moved on since the days of their childhood and now there are a wide variety available. In this post we’re going to give a quick overview and explanation of the various types.

Metallic or traditional braces

Most of us remember the heavy metallic ‘train track’ braces that many of us wore as children and this is probably the image that springs to mind when the words ‘orthodontic braces’ are mentioned. Fortunately modern day metallic braces are smaller, lighter, and more discreet than their predecessors. In addition new heat activated arch-wires use body heat to shift teeth quickly and less painfully than older systems.

Pros – They’re the least expensive type of brace and they’re available on the NHS making them extremely cost effective. What’s more they can come with customisable coloured bands, so for children or adults that want to express themselves, conventional metal style braces in Manchester offer the perfect opportunity.

Cons – Despite the fact that they’re lighter and smaller, they’re still the most noticeable type of brace.

Ceramic braces

Manufactured in exactly the same style as metallic braces using a series of brackets and wiring, ceramic braces utilise clear brackets and tooth-coloured wiring in order to make them less visible than conventional braces.

Pros – Similarly to lingual braces, Manchester patients will be pleased to know that they’re ideal for those who aren’t at all confident about wearing braces and therefore don’t want them to be particularly noticeable. In addition they can also move teeth faster than other types of brace.

Cons – They are more expensive than conventional metal braces and in addition the tooth coloured brackets are prone to staining if not taken care of, thus affecting their ability to be discreet.

Lingual Braces

The main difference about lingual braces Manchester as opposed to any other form of bracket and wire brace system is that they’re secured to the back of the teeth rather than the front.

Pros – Lingual braces are completely invisible from the front so wearers can smile with confidence.

Cons – They’re more expensive than many other forms of orthodontic treatments and because they’re fastened to the rear of your teeth, they can take a bit of getting used to. Regular adjustments made at the dentist can also be more complex than with traditional braces. In addition, they’re not always appropriate for severe orthodontic cases.

Invisalign

This type of orthodontic treatment is about as far removed from other brace systems as you can possibly get in Manchester. Invisalign consists of a series of custom made aligners known as trays that are worn over the teeth like a clear gum shield. They’re designed to be removable when eating and cleaning the teeth. Each aligner is taken out and the next one in the series inserted every two weeks throughout treatment.

Pros – They’re about as invisible and discreet as orthodontic treatments get. As they’re removed and inserted by the patient at home they involve less visits to the dentist. Instead progress check-ups usually take place every 6 weeks. They can also be used to treat a wide variety of orthodontic problems.

Cons – Because each aligner has to be specially made to suit a patient’s requirements they don’t come cheap. As such they’re one of the most expensive treatments available. Because they’re fashioned from a clear light acrylic they’re also hard to spot when put down (similar to a contact lens) so they can be easily lost and therefore costly to replace. They also need to be regularly cleaned in a solution to avoid unsightly staining.

So there you have it! The various types of braces in Manchester and their pros and cons.

Remember, if you’re considering orthodontic treatment, whether that involves Manchester Invisalign or lingual braces, Manchester-based Church Road Dental and Cosmetics can help. To book yourself a consultation visit our website at www.clearbracesmancester.co.uk or contact us directly on 0161 660 1218.

Lingual Braces Manchester – An In Depth Guide

When it comes to orthodontic braces in Manchester in the 21^st century, not surprisingly there are a wide variety available. From conventional metallic style braces through to discreet clear braces, Manchester patients can select a particular brace system that fits in with their requirements, budget, and ultimately their lifestyle.

In this post we’re going to talk about one particular treatment known as lingual braces. Manchester patients often choose them because they have distinct advantages over other orthodontic treatments. Yet if you mentioned them to anyone who hasn’t come into contact with them, chances are they probably wouldn’t have heard of them. So what exactly are they and how can they help?

The first thing to note about lingual braces is that they’re placed behind the teeth rather than in front. This is unlike many other types of other brace systems. For this reason they’re ideal for those adults who feel particularly self-conscious about wearing braces, because they’re virtually invisible.

Lingual braces are a longer term orthodontic treatment that have the ability to treat the whole upper and lower arches of your teeth. This is in contrast to fast or accelerated braces in Manchester which concentrate their efforts on the upper and lower teeth that are visible when the wearer smiles. For this reason they’re ideal for those with more severe orthodontic problems. They work in the same way as conventional braces in that they apply continued gentle force which gradually pulls the teeth into alignment. As such, they can treat a whole host of problems from over crowding to unsightly gapping, and treatment time is usually around 12-36 months.

**So how does the process for acquiring lingual braces in Manchester work?**

Once you and your dentist have come to the decision that lingual braces are the best form of treatment, an impression will be taken of your teeth. This may take some time as the impressions or moulds need to be 100% accurate. These are then sent off to a centralised laboratory where the custom brackets are made. After about 6 weeks expect a call from your orthodontist to arrange a fitting.

Fitting involves applying dental cement to the underside of a row of brackets before pressing them into place on the back of your teeth. Once the cement sets, the plastic applicator holding the brackets together can be broken off. Next the arch wire is installed by threading it through the brackets behind the teeth. Purposely the arch wire is shaped for the final position of your teeth and because of this it creates tension. As it does so, and tries to pull back to position, it moves slowly and gradually moves the teeth.

The first few weeks

Most patients find the first few weeks a little challenging in that they might experience temporary speech impediments as the tongue can’t touch the back of the teeth. But this is usually overcome. Also the wearer may experience mild discomfort as they get used to wearing the braces. In Manchester we suggest that if you are experiencing any problems that lasts longer than 4 weeks, that you come back to us for advice.

What about cost?

Because lingual braces are custom-made, when compared to other conventional or clear braces Manchester, treatment tends to be more complex so ultimately they cost more. That said, the results they bring can be pretty spectacular, leaving patients with a fully restored smile that they feel happy and more confident about.

If you have a smile you’re not happy with and are considering lingual braces Manchester or any other type of braces in Manchester then we invite you to have a consultation with our experienced orthodontics team. To schedule an appointment you can either contact us via our website or call directly on 0161 660 1218. On behalf of Shi Karim and the team we look forward to welcoming you to our practice.

Braces Before and After – Great Results, Great Teeth

If you’re an adult and it’s been suggested that you wear braces in Manchester to correct your teeth, then it’s understandable that you might be a little wary and somewhat apprehensive. The good news is that there are many types of brace systems on the market to suit both your requirements and needs. What’s more, as higher percentages of people are spending money on cosmetic dental treatments, adult orthodontics are becoming more and more popular.

For example, clear braces offers Manchester patients the chance to have orthodontic treatment using discreet brace systems. Some, such as Invisalign, do away with the conventional bracket and wiring style braces altogether, in favour of a series of removable plastic aligners which are worn over the teeth like an invisible gum shield. Some offer speedy solutions for those looking to correct the aesthetics of their smile, while other treatments are aimed at helping more complex dental issues. Whatever orthodontic treatment you choose, you can rest assured that the difference between braces before and after is often astonishing.

With this in mind, what type of treatments can adult orthodontics help?

It’s estimated that in the UK, around 20-25% of all orthodontic patients are adults. Nowadays people want their teeth to be healthier; they want a better bite, and they want them to look great. The good news is that orthodontic braces in Manchester have the ability to fix a number of problems. These include:

Misaligned bite – Overbite, underbite or a cross bite
Overcrowded teeth
Slight teeth gaps
Crooked teeth
Flared teeth

Whether you’re looking to straighten the upper and lower teeth that are visible when you smile, or are looking to correct an over or underbite, orthodontic treatments such as clear braces, offers Manchester patients the chance to restore their great looking smile.

So how do they work?

Despite the fact that there are many types of brace system available they all adopt the same principle. That is to gradually move the teeth back into position by applying gentle and sustained pressure. This may be done using a series of brackets and wires which are fastened to the teeth and are adjusted periodically. Alternatively, in the case of Invisalign, this is done using a series of custom-made aligners which are worn over the teeth. Whatever the case, the difference between braces before and after can be quite a transformation, and for the vast majority of people it’s worth the hassle, because the results can be life changing.

If you’re not happy with your smile and would like to find out more about braces in Manchester or what clear braces offers Manchester patients then contact Dr Shi Karim and the team at Church Road Dental and Cosmetics. Our highly experienced team have the ability to restore your great looking smile once and for all. To make an appointment either visit our website at www.clearbracesmanchester.co.uk or contact us directly on 0161 660 1218 today. Remember you shouldn’t have to suffer with an unhappy smile, so start the ball rolling towards a healthier happier you right now.