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.
