Straightening Your Smile: 3 Common Teeth Alignment Procedures

Your smile is your introduction to the world, and it should be brilliant.  Everyone is conscious of how their smile looks, and feels awkward if it appears irregular or odd in any way. Especially in a day and age when photographs and selfies are the norm.

Those who have crooked, protruding teeth or visible gums are always trying to cover their mouths, to hide their smiles. So are people who feel they don't have 'perfect' or 'beautiful' smiles.

However, there is no reason to despair as there are excellent solutions available for anyone who wants to correct, align and enhance their smiles. They can now get lovely and attractive smiles through the right dental experts.  

Here are three procedures which one can select from, to bring out the natural charm of your smile.

Traditional Braces:

Wired braces have been the most common option used over the years, and used successfully even for challenging cases. They consist of a set of metal brackets and wires, fixed to the teeth and adjusted at regular intervals to correct the alignment of the teeth. They are non-removable for the duration of the treatment. 

Though visible when smiling or talking, dental braces are usually prescribed for children who might not be very regular while using any form of removable aligners, thus delaying or hampering the treatment. 

If one is opting for braces, it is important to pay extra attention to oral hygiene, as there is a risk of plaque build up and tooth decay.

Lingual Braces:

Lingual braces are also wired braces, but with a difference. They are fixed from the inner side of the teeth, and hence invisible while talking or smiling. 

They are custom-fit and can be prescribed for people of all ages, making them apt for adults who prefer to be discreet about wearing dental braces.  

Invisible / Clear Aligners:

These are considered the most revolutionary treatment option for teeth straightening, and are now used even by adults.  These almost-transparent, removable aligners are custom-made, and ideal for those who want to correct their teeth position, but do not want the discomfort or the unpleasant appearance that regular wired braces have.

They need to be worn consistently for 20 to 22 hours, and removed before meals. It can take anywhere between a few months to about 2 years, for the treatment to be successfully completed, depending on the individual's dental condition. 

As technology advances, more and more corrective measures are available for children and adults alike. In all of these, paying attention to good oral hygiene is essential, to prevent other challenges like plaque formation, gum inflammation or tooth decay. 

Before you decide, it is important to speak to your trusted dentist to understand the pros and cons of the various options available, and only then take an informed decision.

To consult one of our dental specialists at Apollo, please contact:  1800-102-0288