Category: Orthodontic treatment

Benefits Of Straight Teeth: Health, Beauty, & Confidence

Our teeth are important for various reasons. They allow us to eat and speak, but more importantly, they make us look beautiful. However, only perfectly aligned and stain-free teeth make us look pretty. A survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry showed that people who had straight teeth were perceived prettier, friendlier, and more approachable than those with crooked teeth. So, having a straight set of teeth has many benefits. 

If you or a loved one has misaligned teeth and are wondering how beneficial it would be to straighten them, then this blog is for you. So, continue reading to learn about all the benefits of having straight teeth. 

How Important Are Straight Teeth In Society?

From society’s point of view, having straight and pearly white teeth means that you will be perceived as more confident, approachable, and attractive than those with misaligned teeth. This alone is a huge social advantage. According to another survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), 45% of the respondents believed that a smile is the most attractive feature in people, regardless of age. 

What Are The Benefits Of Having Perfectly Straight Teeth?

As mentioned earlier, straight teeth have many advantages. Let us discuss them in detail:

  • Functional Benefits – straight teeth allow for optimal chewing and digestion. So, we can expect that people with optimally aligned teeth will have better physical health than those with crooked teeth. 
  • Oral Health Benefits – straight teeth are easier to clean. That is why, people with properly aligned teeth have a considerably lower risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Besides, people with properly aligned teeth have better digestion and immunity. As a result, they are more resistant to the development of various medical and dental diseases. 
  • Aesthetic Benefits – straight teeth make people look attractive and prettier. No matter how attractive your facial features are, you can’t appear beautiful unless you have a set of straight and milky white teeth. 

Should Crooked Teeth Be Straightened?

Yes, crooked teeth should be straightened. Why? Because they offer several functions, health, and aesthetics-related benefits over misaligned teeth. So, as soon as one grows all their natural teeth, they should consider straightening them with braces or clear aligners.  

Are Braces Attractive?

Many people find traditional metal braces unattractive. This is because they have a conspicuous metallic appearance that significantly affects facial aesthetics. Besides, metal braces can also cause oral soft tissue injuries. 

However, there are other, less conspicuous braces available that can be used for teeth straightening, such as lingual braces and tooth-coloured ceramic braces. So, if you are avoiding metal braces due to their unaesthetic appearance, you may consider ceramic braces or Invisalign clear aligners. 

Are Uneven Teeth Unattractive?

Some people may find uneven teeth attractive. However, the majority of people find misaligned or uneven teeth unattractive. This is because uneven teeth affect the symmetry of the entire face and can significantly change one’s appearance and smile. That is why we find Hollywood celebrities – who have straight teeth – attractive and charming. So, if someone wants to appear attractive, they should have straight and perfectly aligned teeth. 

What’s Embarrassing About Crooked Teeth?

People with crooked teeth often avoid smiling or speaking in front of people. This is because they feel embarrassed about their crooked teeth. Another reason for feeling embarrassed about misaligned teeth is that most crooked teeth get stained due to insufficient cleaning and affect one’s facial aesthetics. Overall, crooked teeth can significantly lower one’s self-confidence and attractiveness, in addition to causing various health-related complications. 

Is It Possible To Treat Crooked Teeth With Invisalign?

Crooked teeth can be treated with various orthodontic treatment options, such as fixed braces and removable Invisalign clear aligners. Clear aligners have recently become the most sought-after option for straightening crooked teeth. This is because they are comfortable to wear and virtually invisible. So, they can be worn without affecting one’s smile and appearance. Besides, there is no food restriction with clear aligners and they allow for superior oral hygiene maintenance than fixed braces. So clear aligners are an excellent option for straightening crooked teeth. 

Will Braces Make Me Look Ugly?

Many people avoid getting braces due to their unaesthetic metallic appearance. When worn, metal braces are quite conspicuous and can affect one’s facial aesthetics. But, there is no need to worry. If you don’t want to get braces due to their conspicuousness, you can get your teeth straightened with Invisalign removable aligners. 

Invisalign aligners comprise a set of removable, tray-like, transparent appliances worn over the teeth. The aligners are designed such that they will exert pressure on your teeth and sequentially move them in the desired direction. Hence, each aligner tray will bring you one step closer to your dream smile. 

Besides, if you don’t want metal braces, you may also consider ceramic or lingual braces.

If you’re searching for the best orthodontic practice in Essex, your best option is Harrow Dental Practice. We offer all kinds of general and specialised dentistry services to our esteemed patients in a comfortable environment and at affordable rates. If you want to know more about orthodontic treatment and its benefits, you can download a voucher for virtual consultation and discuss your treatment options with our specialist dentists. So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment with us today and let us give you a smile that you genuinely deserve. We look forward to serving you. 

Clear Or Metal Braces?

When considering orthodontic treatment, one of the biggest decisions is to choose a suitable treatment option. Whether to go with metal braces? Which option is better? These are some of the commonly asked questions regarding braces treatment. If you have similar questions and are looking for their answers, you have come to the right place. This blog provides a comprehensive comparison between clear and metal braces so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment. 

Ceramic Vs Metal Braces Price

Metal braces are among the time-tested treatment options used to straighten teeth for many decades. In the UK, getting your teeth straightened with traditional metal braces can cost you between £2000 and £2500. The treatment cost varies from case to case as it depends on many factors. On the other hand, if you’re considering ceramic braces, the treatment may cost you around £2500 – £4000. Again, the treatment cost with ceramic braces varies for every person, based on their individual oral health needs. 

How Are Ceramic Braces Better Than Metal Braces?

If you’re still unsure whether ceramic-based tooth-coloured brackets are the right choice for you, then here is one of their biggest advantage, that will help you decide. The foremost advantage is that ceramic braces are less notable than metal braces. Therefore, you can wear them anywhere without worrying about showing your braces. So, ceramic braces will not affect your facial aesthetics and will help boost your self-confidence.

Can Ceramic Braces Damage Your Teeth?

According to the British Orthodontic Society, ceramic braces are tooth-coloured brackets that offer a less conspicuous alternative to traditional metal braces. These brackets offer several advantages over metal braces, the most significant among them being their ability to blend in with the natural teeth and become virtually invisible. 

However, despite their numerous advantage, they do have certain drawbacks. For example, ceramic braces are not suitable for individuals who have a very low bite. In such individuals, there are chances that the ceramic brackets come in frequent contact with the opposing teeth and damage them. Besides ceramic brackets can also cause gum inflammation in susceptible individuals. So, it is advisable to consult your orthodontist in London before considering ceramic braces for aligning your teeth. 

Ceramic Vs Metal Braces: Pros And Cons

When selecting an orthodontic treatment option, it is important to consider its pros and cons. If you are considering clear braces for your treatment, we have outlined its advantages and drawbacks to help you decide. 

Pros of Clear Braces

The foremost benefit of clear braces is that they are virtually invisible as they are tooth-coloured. Furthermore, due to their inconspicuous appearance, they don’t affect one’s smile and facial aesthetics. As a result, they help boost the wearer’s self-confidence. Invisalign is a great example of these clear braces.

Cons of Clear Braces

Some of the cons of clear braces are:

  • High Cost – the cost of treatment with clear braces is higher than conventional metal braces. 
  • Not Suitable for All Cases – clear braces are not suitable for treating extremely complex cases involving the bite. 
  • Not Suitable for Some Patients – ceramic braces are not suitable for patients with a deep bite or those who have a habit of teeth grinding. This is because ceramic braces can damage a natural opposing tooth if they come in contact with it. 

Ceramic Braces Vs Metal Braces Cost

An important factor to consider when choosing an orthodontic treatment option is its cost. With different types of braces available for treatment, they also have different treatment costs. To understand the cost comparison between metal and ceramic braces, let us look at the factors that affect orthodontic treatment costs. 

  • The Severity of the Issue  – the more complex an orthodontic problem is, the longer it will take and the higher its treatment cost. 
  • The Patient’s Age – it is easier to treat orthodontic issues in younger patients as the bones are flexible. So, the treatment cost will be lower in young patients as it will take less time to straighten their teeth. 
  • The Dentist’s Skill and Experience – specialist orthodontics charge more treatment than general dentists. 
  • The Dentist’s Location – dental practices in metropolitan areas have higher treatment rates than those in the suburbs.

Now that we know about the factors affecting braces cost, let us compare the treatment cost of ceramic and metal braces. The cost of ceramic braces in London varies between £2000 and £4000. On the other hand, metal braces can cost anywhere between £1500 and £3500. Your orthodontist will give you an estimate of your treatment costs after a careful evaluation of your treatment needs. 

Disadvantages Ceramic Braces Vs Metal Type Of Braces Cost

If we talk about metal braces, their most significant disadvantage is their conspicuous metallic appearance. That is why, metal braces are not preferred by many patients. Another drawback of metal braces is their potential to injure the oral soft tissues and cause discomfort. 

On the other hand, a major drawback of ceramic braces is that they are not suitable for all orthodontic patients. Besides, ceramic braces are more costly than traditional metal braces. If you are considering clear braces, let the best orthodontic practice in London give you the smile of your dreams! Harrow Dental has one of the best teams of dentists in town and state-of-the-art equipment to give you the highest-quality treatment you deserve. So, request a free virtual appointment with us today and let us give you a smile you can genuinely be proud of. We look forwards to serving you.

Braces As An Adult – What To Expect When Straightening Adult Teeth?

“Is it possible to get teeth straightened with braces as an adult?” this is one of the questions that is commonly asked from orthodontists. Just a few years ago, it was thought that teeth straightening was only possible for youngsters and teenagers, and adults weren’t eligible. However, times have changed now! Today, no matter how old you are – sixteen or sixty – you can get your teeth straightened and enjoy your dream smile with orthodontic treatment. 

But what’s the difference between braces treatment during teenage and adult life? If you are looking for an answer to this question, you have come to the right place! This blog will discuss everything you need to know about adult braces treatment. So, continue reading to find out more about adult orthodontics. 

What Is It Like To Wear Braces As An Adult?

Today, many adults are considering orthodontic treatment to enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile. Although the process largely remains the same for youngsters or adults, the difference mainly lies in the treatment speed. At a young age, the bones are flexible and allow for easy movement and realignment of the teeth. On the other hand, bones tend to become brittle due to limited blood supply. As a result, tooth movement takes longer and may cause slightly more discomfort. So, orthodontic problems can be completely treated at an older age; just that it can take slightly longer to do so. 

When Should You Get Braces If Your Teeth Are Crooked?

The ideal time for getting braces is when almost all the permanent teeth have appeared – except the wisdom teeth – and the jaws are still growing. According to the NHS, the ideal age for kids to get braces treatment is 12 or 14. However, parents should bring their kids for an orthodontic visit earlier in life so that the orthodontist can identify any underlying issues and take preventive measures. 

But this does not mean that you can only get braces at a young age. According to the British Orthodontic Society, treatment with braces is possible at any age. However, the best results are achieved when the treatment starts at an early age. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Metal Braces?

Metal braces are one of the most commonly used and time-tested options for straightening crooked and misaligned teeth. However, like all dental restorations and treatment options, metal braces also have certain merits and demerits. 

Some of the advantages of metal braces are:

  • Treatment precision 
  • Braces can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, even the complicated ones 
  • Treatment can be performed by almost every dentist worldwide
  • Less expensive than other treatment options 

Similarly, the drawbacks of metal braces are:

  • Conspicuous metallic appearance creates aesthetic concerns 
  • Difficulty in eating and chewing 
  • Oral hygiene maintenance becomes challenging 
  • Dietary limitations 
  • Potential for soft tissue injuries from orthodontic wires and sharp edges of the brackets

Do People Notice When You Get Braces As An Adult?

Despite being a time-tested and highly effective treatment option, a limitation of traditional braces is their conspicuous metallic appearance which is not liked by many. Unfortunately, metal braces become visible when worn, especially on the front teeth. However, if you have been avoiding orthodontic treatment because of the unaesthetic appearance of these braces, don’t worry; other aesthetically more pleasing options are available such as ceramic and lingual braces or clear aligners. 

What Should One Know Before Getting Braces?

The foremost thing one should remember before seeking treatment is that braces require long-term commitment and adherence to the dentist’s instructions. You can expect a complete resolution of your view with minimal risk of relapse if you follow your dentist’s instructions to the letter. Otherwise, you may soon observe after your treatment that your teeth return to their old positions. So, patient compliance is very crucial in treatment with braces. 

Is It True That Braces Weaken The Teeth?

It is a common misconception that braces weaken one’s teeth. However, this is not true. The fact is that braces won’t harm your teeth, gums, or oral health if you look after your oral health. Our teeth only weaken when we ignore oral hygiene during braces treatment, leading to plaque and tartar formation, causing gum disease. If gum disease is not treated timely during orthodontics, it can make our teeth weak and cavity-prone. 

How Long Until Braces Start Moving Teeth?

Braces start pressuring your teeth to realign themselves as soon as you wear them. However, you may not observe significant tooth movement or shift until a few weeks. This is because it takes time for the teeth to degrade the bone around them so that they begin to move. So, you can expect your teeth to start moving after a few weeks of initiating the orthodontic treatment. 

What Should I Expect About My Teeth Before Taking Off Braces?

Congratulations on completing your braces-wearing period. Now, it’s time to remove them and place retainers over your teeth so they don’t move backwards. However, once your braces are removed, you may observe yellowish spots around your teeth. These are the adhesive remnants used for bonding your brackets with the teeth. But there is no need to worry. Your dentist will remove these yellow spots. 

So, are you ready to get your teeth straightened with braces and enjoy a beautiful smile? If you live in Hornchurch and looking for the best orthodontic practice in town, then Harrow Dental is the best place for you. We offer our esteemed patients a wide range of orthodontic and general dental services in a comfortable and relaxing environment. So, Book an appointment with us today and begin your journey towards a beautiful and healthy smile.