Many people worry about their teeth, whether it’s concern over the health of one’s teeth or about an unappealing smile. Straighter teeth, for example, is something that many of us yearn for. There is a device perfect for helping to straighten teeth while saving you money and without endangering the aesthetics of your teeth, in the form of the Inman Aligner.
What is the Inman Aligner?
The Inman Aligner is a removable brace specifically used to straighten the front upper teeth, which are some of the most common teeth requiring adjustment in young adults and teenagers.
Upon the release of the Inman Aligner in 2000, the only alternative to fix crooked teeth was traditional braces and porcelain veneers. While braces were effective and generally cheap when compared to veneers, their aesthetics made them rather unappealing to many people, while invisible braces took longer to produce results.
Porcelain veneers were very effective, bringing spectacular results over a very short period of time. The main drawback, however, was the rather large price tag, as well as the need to remove parts of tooth enamel in order to fit them, something many people weren’t happy to do.
The Inman Aligner addresses all these issues, being both aesthetically pleasing and very fast acting, as well as not having a price tag only the wealthy can afford.
While prices for braces, veneers and aligners are different from patient to patient, braces, which are vastly cheaper than veneers, can cost around £5,000. The Inman Aligner can cost as little as £1,150, a significant decrease.
When it comes to modern orthodontics, patients are spoiled for choice. Not so long ago, patients who had crooked or crowded teeth or problems with their bite had to wear fixed train-track style braces, but now there are so many options available and solutions suitable for all kinds of different orthodontic issues.
We offer fixed and removable braces and there are pros and cons to each type of treatment.
Fixed braces
Fixed braces have been around for a long time and are very effective. There are various systems, including traditional braces as well as lingual braces. Patients with minor, moderate or complex issues can benefit from fixed brace treatment. The simplicity of fixed brace treatment is appealing to many patients and also the fact that success is guaranteed, rather than hanging on the assumption that the patient will wear their removable brace for the required time each day.
Fixed braces do their have downsides. They are more difficult to clean than removable braces, they can be uncomfortable, especially if they need adjusting, and there is a risk that food can become stuck in the brackets and around the wires.
Removable braces
Removable braces give patients more control during the treatment process and many patients prefer the freedom of being able to take their brace out. This also makes it easy to eat and means that you can clean your teeth properly, which helps to reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities. Many removable braces, such as Invisalign, are also very discreet, which makes for excellent aesthetics during the treatment process.
The cons of removable braces are that the process is more convoluted and you have to remember to swap your aligners or take them in and out. Also, the success of treatment is heavily dependent on the patient. If you neglect to wear your aligners for the required time, treatment may not be as successful as you hoped.
We offer an impressive array of orthodontic treatments to straighten the teeth and create beautiful smiles and we are confident that we can find a brilliant treatment for every patient.
The wonders of braces
Braces are a really effective treatment for problems including crowding, gaps between the teeth, crooked and twisted teeth, issues with the bite and protruding front teeth. Braces have been around for many years, but today, patients have access to innovative new takes on traditional braces and there has never been a more exciting time in the world of Orthodontics. Today’s patients have a choice of all kinds of systems and appliances and treatments are faster, more convenient and more comfortable than ever before. Here are two of the amazing treatments we offer at Clifton Dental Studio:
Invisalign: Invisalign is a clear aligner treatment that uses virtually undetectable plastic aligners to move the teeth. With Invisalign, you can enjoy the freedom of a removable brace combined with amazingly discreet aesthetics. Treatment is suitable for most patients and the average treatment time is around 12 months.
The Inman Aligner: the Inman Aligner is a rapid treatment aimed at patients who have minor issues with the front teeth. Treatment takes just 16 weeks and the aligner is removable, comfortable and a lot more discreet than most fixed braces.
Braces can be tricky, especially for those wanting straighter teeth during adulthood. Train track braces are effective, but there is no way to hide the fact that you are wearing them. Recently, however, several kinds of invisible braces have burst on to the market and they’re changing the way we think about braces. The Inman Aligner, for example, is quick, effective and super discreet.
How does it work?
The Inman Aligner works using springs that are carefully engineered to put the right amount of pressure on your teeth. They push behind the teeth, while a clear wire holds the teeth in place from the front. This moves them into place quickly and precisely.
What are the advantages?
It’s fast
Because the brace is designed especially for you, the springs are engineered to apply optimum, continuous force to the teeth. Traditional braces need to be tightened every so often, and other kinds of invisible braces need to be replaced every couple of weeks. The Inman Aligner is constantly exerting pressure on the teeth, therefore it works all day, every day. This means that treatment can be completed in a matter of weeks (typically 12-18) rather than years.
It’s discreet
Where possible the Inman Aligner is made of clear materials, so it’s practically invisible. People don’t need to know you’re having your teeth straightened unless you tell them so – which Bristol serving dentists believe make it an excellent choice!
It’s removable
Due to its retainer-like design, the Inman Aligner can be removed whenever you like. It should be removed when you’re eating or cleaning your teeth, but it can also be taken out for special occasions, such as family photographs or an important meeting. It is important to note that spending too much time without the retainer will impair its effectiveness and it should ideally be worn for at least 20 hours per day.
Are there any disadvantages?
During the first few days you may experience some mild discomfort as the braces begin moving your teeth. You may also develop a slight lisp, but this too is temporary. All things considered, the advantages of this treatment greatly outweigh the temporary disadvantages.
Orthodontic appliances can straighten teeth for improved smiles, but in addition they can also help patients from Bristol when a tooth is missing. They are generally worn for approximately two years, although the time required depends on the severity of the problem. There are mainly three types of orthodontics braces available today. The best type of orthodontics braces for an individual depends on various factors and each brace has their pros and cons.
Metal Braces
These are the traditional or conventional braces. The biggest disadvantage and the main reason why people look for other kinds of braces are because they are very visible and obvious. However, the main benefit of these braces is that they are the most cost effective solution and those who wish to retain the cost to a minimum may have to go with this option.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are made of materials that look like natural teeth. Due to this colour-match material the brackets become hard to see and are less obvious. Because of this low visibility they are also known as clear braces. Even the colour of the wire that goes through the bracket would be much similar to the colour of the teeth. The major concern with ceramic braces is that the material used is not as strong as the metal braces and could get broken. Along with being weaker than the metal braces, they are also expensive, which can be hurtful to your wallet.
Lingual Braces
The other major type of brace is lingual braces. They are fitted to the back and the inside of the teeth rather than at the front. Due to their positioning they can be barely seen and so are also known as invisible braces. These are certainly costlier than both ceramic and metal braces, but given the benefit of invisibility, these braces are in high demand.
Crowding is a common orthodontic problem that can often be solved very effectively with braces. If you suffer from overcrowding and are looking for a stress-free solution, we may have just the perfect treatment for you.
Why are crowded teeth problematic?
Crowded teeth can make your smile look unattractive but they can also increase your risk of developing dental diseases. This is because it is often very difficult to clean all the surfaces of the teeth when they are pushed up against each other. If you’re not happy with the look of your smile, it can also affect your confidence, especially when you’re around other people. Dental treatment creates more attractive smiles, boosts confidence and enables you to eat and clean your teeth without any trouble at all.
What can be done for crowded teeth?
Orthodontic treatment is the best course of action for crowded teeth and today there are all kinds of amazing treatments available. Crowding is a common problem that usually results from a lack of space in the jaw. Braces help to reposition the teeth, create more space and align the teeth perfectly.
The range of options available to you will depend largely on the severity of the crowding. In minor cases, aligners and fixed braces may be viable, while in complex cases, fixed braces are usually the best option. In some cases of crowding, it might be necessary to remove some of the teeth before the braces are fitted, as this creates space for the teeth to move. Your dentist will go through your options and the treatment processes when you have your consultation.
When it comes to orthodontics, we believe in wonderful smiles and have the best treatments on the market available right here in Bristol. We invest constantly to make sure we offer the newest and most effective treatments and are proud to expand our treatment list on a continual basis to ensure we’re up to date with the latest innovations. If you have crooked, crowded or twisted teeth or are looking for a solution for a misaligned or uneven bite, we are confident that we can find an amazing treatment for you.
The benefits of orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment is designed to benefit those with issues that affect the alignment of the teeth, the relationship between the upper and lower sets of teeth and the jaw joint (this is known as the bite). As well as producing beautiful, straight smiles, orthodontic treatment also helps to increase confidence, improve speech, reduce the risk of oral health problems and improve the overall facial aesthetic.
Nowadays, treatments are faster, more discreet and more effective than ever before and there is a wide range of treatment options available to patients of all ages.
Our speedy straightening treatments
We offer an array of orthodontic treatments suited to patients with varying orthodontic prescriptions. Our treatment list boasts fixed braces, removable braces, braces that work incredibly quickly and those that straighten the teeth in secret.
If time is of the essence and you want to get that new smile without delay, we have some excellent options. Our speedy systems include:
Inman Aligner: a removable aligner ideal for patients with minor issues that affect the front teeth, the Inman Aligner takes just 16 weeks to straighten the teeth.
Six Month Smiles: a fixed brace treatment that takes just six months to straighten issues that affect the front teeth. These braces are clear and use the latest technology to prevent pain and enhance comfort.
If you have unsightly spaces between your teeth or you have gaps in your smile as a result of an accident, injury or gum disease, we have the solutions to help you say goodbye to gaps for good.
Gaps in the smile
Missing teeth can create all kinds of problems, from an increased risk of dental disease and tooth movement to problems with eating and speech. If you have missing teeth, we strongly recommend looking into tooth replacement options. Replacing teeth helps to create a more attractive smile, which will make you feel more confident, and you will find it easier to eat and speak clearly.
We have various tooth replacement treatments on offer, including dentures, dental bridges and dental implants. Dental bridges are a popular option for single teeth, while dentures are an excellent choice for full sets of missing teeth. Implants are the most versatile option, as they are compatible with dentures, bridges and crowns. This means that they can be used for single or multiple missing teeth.
Closing spaces between the teeth
If you have gaps between your teeth, there are various options open to you, including orthodontic treatment, veneers and cosmetic bonding. Orthodontic treatment is the only option that physically moves the teeth and reduces the size of the gap. However, if you have a single gap or you only have small gaps and don’t want to have intensive orthodontic treatment, cosmetic bonding may be a viable option. This procedure uses dental composite to reduce the visible size of a gap by building up tooth-coloured material between the teeth. Bonding only takes an hour and is more affordable than braces and veneers. Veneers may be a good option if you have several gaps and you also want to address aesthetic flaws such as worn and stained teeth.
If you’re keen to say goodbye to gaps, call us now to discuss your treatment options.
Very few people have perfectly proportioned, straight teeth, but thankfully, if you’re one of the many people who have gaps between their teeth, we can help. We have a range of treatment options available to close those gaps and make your smile look incredible.
Treatment options for gaps between the teeth
Orthodontic treatment: if you have large gaps between the smile or additional orthodontic issues, such as problems with the bite, orthodontic treatment is often the best course of action. Braces are used to move the teeth, closing the gaps, aligning the top and bottom teeth and creating a more balanced and attractive smile. Our orthodontic treatments include the Inman Aligner, 6 Month Smiles and Invisalign, all of which provide amazingly discreet aesthetics and incredible results.
Cosmetic bonding: cosmetic bonding is a great choice for patients who have a couple of gaps or a gap between just two of the teeth. This is a minor treatment, which involves a very simple and completely pain-free procedure. Your dentist will use dental composite, a white material, which is used for white fillings, to fill in the gap between two teeth. Treatment usually takes less than an hour, there is no drilling and no need for anaesthetic and you’ll be amazed at what a difference such a simple procedure makes!
Veneers: veneers are a cosmetic solution for gaps between the teeth and they can also be effective for those with chipped, stained or worn teeth. Veneers don’t close the gaps between the teeth, but they do cover spaces, so the smile looks much more attractive. There are various different shades and shapes available, so you can design your own perfect smile!
To discuss treatment options and find out how cosmetic dental treatment could transform your smile, call us now!
Most braces take at least 12 months to straighten the teeth, but if you’re looking for a swifter treatment, we may have just the ticket. 6 Month Smiles is a really impressive fixed brace system, which you can probably guess straightens the teeth in just 6 months.
Everything you need to know about 6 Month Smiles
6 Month Smiles is a fixed brace system that works incredibly quickly to correct issues with the misalignment of the front teeth. This system is aimed at patients who have issues such as mild crowding, crooked front teeth or gaps between the front teeth and it uses the latest technology to move the teeth rapidly with minimal pain.
6 Month Smiles is able to work quicker than other treatments because it uses self-ligating memory wires and focuses its attentions on the front teeth, as these are the teeth that can be seen when you smile or speak. The aim is to create a beautiful smile that you can really feel confident about.
What do 6 Month Smile braces look like?
6 Month Smile braces are not invisible, but they are a very discreet option, as they are made from clear brackets and wires, which are closely matched to the natural tooth colour.
Will wearing braces affect my speech and what I eat?
Wearing braces may have a temporary affect on your speech, but you will soon get used to talking with braces and your speech is actually likely to improve after treatment, as misalignment can affect clarity. In terms of eating, it’s beneficial to stick to soft foods for the first couple of days, but after you get used to eating with braces, it will become second nature and you can look forward to enjoying a wide range of foods.
Dr Gerrard is a Bristol based Cosmetic dentist with many years of experience and is one of only a small number of dentists accredited by The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
