Teenagers have multiple options nowadays when it comes to straightening their teeth. Still, teens and parents may know little about the dental alignment applications that are available today. Here are a few applications that may be used to straighten a teen's teeth.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a relatively new system that helps move the teeth into a proper alignment using plastic trays. The trays, which are called aligners, are made from an impression of the patient's teeth. In order to progressively align the teeth, Invisalign uses multiple sets of aligners. Each set is worn for about two weeks then replaced by the next aligners in the treatment plan.
The Invisalign system is reserved for people who have a fully grown palate and only need moderate alignment corrections. The system is often preferred by teens because the trays are almost invisible when worn. Additionally, the aligners can be removed to make it easier to eat and brush the teeth.
Traditional Braces
Because traditional braces effectively reposition the teeth, they remain a popular option among teenagers. The braces move the teeth using brackets and an archwire. The brackets are bonded to the teeth and remain in place for the duration of the treatment. The archwire, which is connected to the brackets using elastic ligatures, is adjusted periodically throughout the treatment period to ensure that continual aligning forces are applied to the teeth.
Traditional braces can address a large number of aligning issues, regardless of the severity of the condition. As a result, traditional braces are sometimes prescribed for teens with severely crooked teeth.
With traditional braces, teens must be careful to clean their teeth properly. Learning to navigate around the brackets and wires of the appliance may take practice.
Ceramic Braces
Traditional braces are made of metal, which is readily seen against the backdrop of the teeth. Ceramic braces work in the same manner as traditional braces, but the brackets are made of ceramic. As a result, the appliance is more difficult to see after it is applied.
Ceramic brackets can be used in conjunction with metal braces to lessen the cost of the application. Some teens have the ceramic brackets applied to their front teeth only. The remaining teeth are treated with traditional metal braces. The combination is sometimes preferred by parents because it helps reduce the cost of the braces.
For more information about the dental alignment options that are available for teens, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist in your local area.
Share18 October 2017
I have always brushed and flossed my teeth daily, but I still had the occasional cavity when I visited the dentist for a check-up. He told me it was normal to have a cavity on occasion and that I shouldn't let it stress me out too much. Well, I am not one to just accept any problem I am having, so I started looking into how to improve my oral hygiene even more. I had always thought mouthwash was just to improve your breath, but I found some that said they helped keep cavities away. I started using one every day before bed. I haven't had a cavity in two years now, and I think the mouth rinse is the reason! I created this blog to remind other people that even if they brush and floss regularly, they can always find ways to take even better care of their teeth.
