Have you always thought about having a straighter smile? Have you been put off by traditional ‘train track’ braces? Then it’s time to think again! There are orthodontic treatments for you!

Thanks to advances in technology, and some very clever people with some great ideas, there are now a variety of different orthodontic systems and techniques available to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Let’s take a look at some of the most common options…

Those train tracks of your teen years haven’t disappeared. In fact they are still very much

used. They are considered to be one of the best methods of straightening smiles with results that last for the long term.

Orthodontics is a specialist field of dentistry, so those offering traditional braces are highly skilled and can achieve superb results. This method of orthodontics can treat numerous concerns and complex cases, so for some it is the only option available.

This is usually the longest course of treatment, often due to treating more severe cases. The great news is that tooth-coloured brackets and wires are now available, making them far less noticeable than ever before.

Clear aligners revolutionised the orthodontic world, offering patients an invisible option that is also removable. The most recognised brand is Invisalign, but there are now plenty of other companies out there offering a similar approach.

The treatment works by wearing a series of clear aligners, usually for two weeks at a time,

which will gently move the teeth into the desired position. Each aligner will create slightly

more movement than the previous one. The length of treatment depends on the severity of

the case, as well as patient compliance… if you don’t wear them, it won’t work!

Short-term orthodontics is a great treatment option for mild to moderate cases. This methodfocuses on what we call the ‘social six’, which are the six most visible top and bottom teeth; your front teeth.

Short-term orthodontics usually works using fixed brackets and wires, similar to those used in traditional braces, but these are always tooth-coloured and hardly visible. Most cases are completed in 6-9 months, although some patients achieve results in as little as 4 months.

Lingual braces are fitted behind the teeth and so are completely invisible to anyone else. The treatment is carried out using brackets and wires in the same manner as traditional braces but placed on the back of the teeth instead of the front.

This type of treatment can take a little longer and they can be hard to get used to because

they can affect speech more than other types of orthodontics.

As you can see, there are a lot of different treatment types on offer if you are seeking a

straighter smile. Your first port of call should be a trip to your dentist for an initial discussion about your concerns in order to understand which options are available to you. As each person is different, with their own unique set of needs, this stage is vital for gaining a clearer idea of treatment options, proposed length of time, and costs.