Summer is the season when many of us spend time outdoors and enjoy our holidays. It’s a time of smiles and laughter, yet when you don’t feel good about your smile, it can affect your confidence. Misaligned teeth are a common problem that can make you feel self-conscious and may also affect your oral health. Thankfully, there are orthodontic options available to you if you want to enhance your smile and enjoy your summer activities.
What are the Effects of Misaligned Teeth?
Problems from misaligned teeth are not limited to aesthetic appearance. Gaps, crossbites, and over and under-bites can all cause difficulties chewing and eating. These issues may also affect speech, and leave you more vulnerable to tooth decay. Orthodontic options such as traditional braces, or modern straightening techniques like Invisalign, can correct problems with misaligned teeth and help you feel good about your smile again.
How Traditional Braces Straighten Teeth
For many years, traditional braces have been the go-to option for misaligned teeth. Made from metal brackets and wires, they are fixed to your teeth to apply gentle pressure. This gradually moves teeth into their correct position over time. While traditional braces are effective, the downside is that they are visible when you smile. If you think that you might feel self-conscious about wearing braces, Invisalign could be a great alternative for you.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign is a new orthodontic technology that can straighten teeth more discreetly compared to traditional braces. Effective for both teenagers and adults, Invisalign is an excellent alternative to conventional braces. They consist of a set of custom-made, clear aligners that are worn over the teeth, and made to fit your unique shape. Like traditional braces, they gradually shift teeth into their correct alignment.
As teeth move, traditional braces require tightening. Similarly, Invisalign trays need regular updating in order to adapt to the new positions of your teeth. By using Invisalign, you can do all the activities you usually enjoy such as playing contact sports and eating foods that can sometimes cause problems for traditional braces. This is all thanks to the removable aspect of Invisalign treatment.
While it is recommended to wear Invisalign for around 22 hours per day, they offer distinct advantages over fixed braces. Invisalign can easily be removed when eating or brushing your teeth, and the transparent material allows you to smile with confidence in your summer photos!
Treatment Duration of Traditional Braces and Invisalign
Both traditional braces and Invisalign can help to straighten misaligned teeth, but how long it takes to see results will vary depending on the individual. For example, small gaps in teeth may take just a few months to close, whereas complex issues could take much longer. It’s always best to speak with your orthodontist in order to get an accurate treatment timeline for your unique smile.
Provided Invisalign is worn for the recommended number of hours per day, the results can be just as quick as with traditional braces. Plus, you also get the benefit of having more freedom and confidence in your smile. Many adults are now opting for Invisalign treatment.
Smile with Confidence this Summer
If you are looking for the perfect summer smile, Invisalign can help you reach your goal. Get in touch with Graf Orthodontics today, and let your smile shine!
