It is important to address misaligned or crooked teeth as early in life as possible to promote self-confidence and also good oral health. A neat and symmetrical smile is not only pleasant and attractive to look at, but it is also much easier to keep clean than a misaligned set of teeth. This is because your toothbrush and floss can reach well around each tooth and make contact with the tooth surfaces.
With a crooked smile, there are plenty of areas that you may not be able to clean effectively. Therefore, bacteria will build up in those areas, resulting in the formation of plaque and tartar, which are the main cause of the majority of dental issues. If plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on your teeth, they can cause tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis and eventually lead to tooth loss.
Suppose your teeth are misaligned, then usually this would have been addressed during your teenage or early adult years using traditional orthodontic methods. Such methods involve wearing metal dental braces that are attached to the surface of your teeth, which pulls your teeth into position.
If you were unable to undergo orthodontic treatment as a teenager, then it is still not too late. For extensive misalignment issues, traditional orthodontics remains one of the most effective forms of straightening teeth. However, as you may now be an adult, we know that you could have some reluctance towards wearing visible metal braces in your mouth. But thanks to the advances in dental technology, you can still achieve beautifully straight teeth in a more discreet and convenient manner using Invisalign in Cornwall.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign in Cornwall is a significantly more discreet, comfortable and convenient method of straightening teeth and a popular alternative to traditional orthodontic braces. As the name suggests, Invisalign in Cornwall involves virtually invisible clear plastic aligners that are individually manufactured using detailed scans of your teeth and mouth, which makes them comfortable to wear and provides precise results at the end of the treatment.
You will need to undergo a three-dimensional scan of your teeth using the iTero scanning technology. The results of the scan will then be sent to the Invisalign laboratory to manufacture the series of aligners that will help you reach your aesthetic goal. The number of aligners you will need depends on the extent of movement that your teeth have to undergo to reach the desired look, and this can vary from patient to patient. The average treatment times have been found to range from 6 to 12 months, but this is significantly shorter than the average treatment period of traditional orthodontics, which can take approximately 2 years.
Speak to us at Archway Dental Surgery today to find out more about Invisalign and how aligners can work to help straighten your teeth. Invisalign is suitable for mild or moderate misalignment issues, and once you are happy with your smile, we will introduce you to the different types of retainers available to help maintain your new smile.