When people think about orthodontics, they rarely think about cosmetic benefits. In fact, most assume metal braces are the only option available, and that correcting uneven teeth means making serious changes to the smile’s appearance during treatment. However, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist actually has two unique options that offer a more cosmetic approach to correcting misalignment.
Invisalign® Aligners
The most popular one, and an option that costs no more than traditional braces, is the Invisalign® system. What makes this such a popular choice for teens and adults is the fact that the orthodontics consist of clear aligners. These are nearly invisible when worn, correcting misalignment without making drastic changes to your appearance during the process. Each set is custom-made for the patient’s smile based on detailed images we take using advanced technology, allowing us to create a 3D model and design them with accuracy and precision. A set is worn all day, usually between 20 and 22 hours, and the patient moves on to the next set after about two weeks. Over a course of a year for adults, and about 18 months for teens, this system moves the teeth and corrects misalignment! They can easily be removed before meals too, so you don’t have to make changes to your diet or avoid favorite meals.
Tooth-Colored Ceramic Brackets
Sometimes however, braces are still the best option to address misalignment, especially more severe cases. However, we have another cosmetic option to limit the appearance of metal braces. Typically, treatment would involve placing a metal bracket to the front-facing side of each tooth, and then connecting an arch wire to it with a band. However, we create the brackets from ceramic, custom-making each one and then shading them to blend with the surrounding tooth structure. The arch wire is already incredibly thin, so it’s barely visible. Our teen and adult patients enjoy less visible orthodontics as they obtain a straighter and healthier smile!
How Long Does Treatment Take?
As we mentioned above, Invisalign® could take between a year and 18 months. Metal braces may take up to two years. But is there a way to reduce the severity of misalignment and shorten overall treatment time? With Propel® Accelerated Orthodontics, we prescribe a small device that is placed in the mouth and used for about five minutes a day. Easy to use, clean, and store, the device actually stimulates the reformation of the jawbone around the newly repositioned teeth, reducing the amount of time people need to wear orthodontics.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR COSMETIC ORTHODONTICS?
We want you to avoid feeling self-conscious as you improve the health of your smile. To learn more about correcting misalignment, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Haslet, Azle, and all surrounding communities.
