The most commonly asked questions about aligners and orthodontics
So, you’ve just been to the dentist and they have told you that you need an aligner.
Whether you are 15 years old or 45, this can feel a bit like bad luck or a shock. We all have had at least one person in our life who wore one and we remember them seeming to live at the orthodontist’s office. Of course, if you are a teenager, that’s great, as it gets you out of school but as an adult, missing time off work can be a bit more stressful.
Understandably, you have questions and in this article, the most commonly asked search engine questions about wearing orthodontic braces around Windsor will be answered.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
This is the most commonly asked question due to that intense fear that you will be wearing your braces around Windsor for the next 10 years! However, there are many factors to take into account; what condition is being corrected? How severe is the misalignment, crowding or spacing in your mouth?
In any case, it is always worth discussing this with your orthodontist when your aligner is fitted; they may be able to give you an estimate based on the aforementioned variables and any other factors, such as your age, the condition of your teeth or previous history of gum disease.
What can orthodontic treatment correct?
If you are being fitted for an aligner that cannot be removed without a dentist’s assistance, you are probably aware that there is a problem with the alignment of your teeth.
Orthodontic aligners can be used to correct overcrowding of teeth, gaps between teeth, deep overbites, deep underbites, crossbites and even some genetic misalignments of your teeth. If your jaws are misaligned or you have a severe overbite or underbite, then your dentist may suggest surgery.
Is orthodontic treatment painful?
This is a difficult question to answer. Many people report discomfort after having braces tightened whereas others report no sensation at all.
Any discomfort felt while wearing aligners should be able to be remedied with over the counter painkillers. If this does not stop the pain, you will need to see a dentist as soon as you can to rule out any comorbid, undiagnosed issues.
I’m an adult and don’t want to wear a noticeable aligner – are there any alternatives I can try?
If you have been deemed to have a mild to moderate misalignment, then yes!
Many dental surgeries offer more discreet aligners for adults, such as Invisalign, the Inman aligner and even the Six Month Smiles aligner.
If your dentist feels you would not benefit from a more discreet aligner, then you will have to go with a good old metal one for the time being.
Braces are nothing to be ashamed of and whether you need more heavy duty ones or ones that blend in, you will soon have a smile to be proud of!