Why is it important to have straight teeth?

Having straight teeth helps us to remain healthy. Straight teeth are not only cosmetically beneficial, but function better as well. The ability to chew our food properly relies on our teeth meeting correctly. Having misaligned teeth prevents this from happening, resulting in not being able to chew properly and forcing our stomachs to try and break down larger pieces of food. Misaligned teeth can also cause pockets of bacteria to develop which can instigate a number of unwanted infections.

A new generation of braces and aligners

Wearing a large metal brace with wires, blocks and bands used to be the accepted way that misaligned teeth were treated. These devices were effective but were not comfortable to wear. Those same braces have been made into a far more comfortable and effective piece of modern day equipment. Technology and science have also combined to go further and to produce a number of additional braces. Some of them still use wires, blocks and bands, but they are made from different materials which blend better with the natural colour of our teeth. A lingual brace goes even further and instead of fitting onto the front of the teeth this clever device fits onto the inside of the teeth. These all require regular dental surgery visits for assessment and adjustments. Now there is a new type of brace called an aligner which works using different principles and is computer assisted, Invisalign in Glasgow has embraced this new technology.

Invisalign aligners

Invisalign aligners resemble a gum shield which fits over the teeth and they are made from a clear dental material, making them almost impossible to see. This is far more appealing to both young and old alike who may suffer from a dental misalignment. The scanners and computer software enable numerous images to be taken, so that there is no need for a putty mould of the teeth. These images are far more accurate and can be digitally transmitted to a laboratory quicker and more efficiently than a putty mould. This results in a far more rapid service and also allows the patient to view a virtual image of how their teeth will look once treatment has been completed.

How does it work?

Images of the mouth, teeth and gums are taken and a treatment plan is created. The images are then transmitted digitally to the laboratory where a virtual image of the patient’s teeth is created showing how they will look after treatment. The patient and dentist are also able to discuss the details of the treatment and the anticipated duration. A series of aligners, sometimes referred to as trays, are created, on average twenty-five are required, but the exact number depends on the condition being treated. These are fitted over the teeth and must be worn for at least twenty-two hours per day. It is possible to remove them to eat, drink and to brush and floss the teeth.

The revelation!

At the end of the treatment, one final retainer must be worn for a given time to give the teeth help to settle into their new positions. Once this period is over, it’s time to reveal your new smile to the world as you beam broadly and confidently.