Straightening teeth

Have you ever wanted to straighten your teeth? Feeling conscious about your irregular teeth and not biting correctly? You are never too old to straighten your teeth. We can realign your crooked teeth to help you achieve a straighter smile.

Straightening teeth is the process of correcting the alignment of misaligned teeth to improve their appearance and function.

Even though appearance is one of the main reasons why people want to straighten their teeth, it is not the only reason. Properly aligned teeth can also improve oral health by making it easier to clean and maintain good oral hygiene. Straightening teeth can also improve overall dental function and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

One of the most common methods for straightening teeth is braces. Braces are orthodontic appliances made of wires and brackets that are attached to the teeth. They apply a constant, gentle pressure on the teeth, which gradually moves them into the desired position. Braces are highly effective in correcting complex dental issues such as crooked teeth, overbite, underbite, and overcrowding.

We provide both metal and ceramic braces. The latter (ceramic) being chosen for those who need a more aesthetic option. 

Another option for straightening teeth is Clear Aligners eg Invisalign, Zenyum. Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays that are designed to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. They are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults who are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces.

In some cases, dental bonding or veneers may be used to straighten teeth. Please read the page on ‘Aesthetic Dentistry’ for more information on this.

FAQ

The length of the teeth straightening process varies depending on the method used, the severity of the misalignment, and other individual factors.

For more straight forward cases, it may take between 6-12 months.

For more complex cases it may take 18-24 months, or sometimes even longer.

The frequency of dental visits during the teeth straightening process depends on the method used and the individual treatment plan. Typically, dental visits are required every 4-8 weeks for adjustments and monitoring progress.

Braces and clear aligners are two of the most popular methods for teeth straightening. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, which should be considered when choosing the right option for your individual needs.

Advantages of Braces

Effective for complex cases
Braces are highly effective in correcting complex dental issues like overbite, underbite, and overcrowding. They can also correct dental issues that clear aligners may not be able to fix.

Low maintenance
Once the braces are placed, they do not need to be removed or replaced until the treatment is complete. This makes them a low-maintenance option for teeth straightening.

Cost-effective
Braces are generally less expensive than clear aligners.

No compliance issues
Braces are fixed to the teeth and do not need to be removed for eating or brushing. This eliminates the need for compliance and reduces the risk of forgetting to wear them.

Disadvantages of Braces

Appearance
Traditional braces are highly visible and may not be aesthetically pleasing, especially for adults who are concerned about their appearance.

Discomfort
Braces can cause discomfort and soreness on the lips and cheeks, especially during the first month.

Difficulty cleaning
Braces can make it difficult to clean the teeth properly, which can increase the risk of dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease.


Advantages of Clear Aligners

Aesthetic
Clear aligners are virtually invisible and may be more appealing to adults who are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces.

Removable
Clear aligners are removable, which makes them more convenient for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Comfortable
Clear aligners are made of a smooth, flexible material that is more comfortable to wear than traditional braces.

Better for oral hygiene
Clear aligners can be removed for brushing and flossing, which makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.

Disadvantages of Clear Aligners

Compliance
Clear aligners must be worn for at least 20-22 hours each day, and failure to comply can delay the treatment process.

Limited effectiveness
Clear aligners may not be as effective as traditional braces in correcting complex dental issues.

Cost
Clear aligners are generally more expensive than traditional braces.

Ask our dental professionals for advice