Do you have a big event coming up? Maybe you’re in the early stages of planning your wedding or have an upcoming graduation or family reunion on the horizon. If you know that the camera is going to be focused on you and you’re dreading the thought of smiling in public, read on to find out how we can help you professionally straighten your teeth in time for the big day.
What are the benefits of straightening my teeth?
With so much to think about already you may be questioning whether you can face one more task to complete before your big day, but the benefits of a perfectly straight smile really can’t be overstated. In addition to gaining a huge, life-changing confidence boost, you’ll find that:
- Straight teeth are far easier to clean than crooked or misaligned teeth.
- You’ll reduce the risk of developing oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
- You’ll reduce the risk of serious health conditions linked to gum disease, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
- You’ll no longer suffer from chronic headaches, neck or jaw pain caused by crooked teeth placing excessive stress on the gums and jawbone.
- You’ll smile more, enjoying the benefits of lower stress levels and a stronger immune system.
How much time do I need?
This will depend on the severity of your orthodontic issues, and one of the treatment coordinators at The Bristol Dental Practice will be happy to discuss this with you during a free 30-minute consultation at our practice. In general, you should try to allow 18—24 months to straighten your teeth, however many of the treatments we offer provide much faster results. For example, the Inman Aligner system can treat most patients within 6 to 16 weeks – well within the time frame of most major event planning.
What are my treatment options?
Adult orthodontics have come a long way over the past decade and gone are the days of clunky fixed metal braces that people often associate with orthodontic treatment. The number of adults choosing to straighten their teeth has risen dramatically recently thanks to a variety of discreet orthodontic treatments that don’t interfere with everyday activities or restrict dietary choices. At The Bristol Dental Practice, we offer a full range of options, including:
Using a series of removable clear aligners to gently exert pressure on the teeth in order to move them into the desired position, Invisalign is a popular choice for adult patients with mild-to-moderate orthodontic issues because of its discreet appearance. If there’s a possibility that you’ll still be having treatment during your big event, Invisalign is a great option because the aligners are virtually impossible to see and can be removed for any close-up photos, enabling you to smile with confidence.
A more discreet style of fixed metal braces, ceramic braces use tooth coloured fixtures and white wires to blend in with your natural teeth. They are a good choice for patients with complex orthodontic issues who need the efficiency of fixed braces but prefer a more discreet, natural-looking appearance.
If you need complex orthodontic treatment but won’t have time to remove fixed braces before your big event, lingual braces might be a good option for you. Discreetly fitted to the back of the teeth, lingual braces are made up of brackets and arch wires that are custom-made to fit the individual shape of your teeth. They are virtually invisible to other people, making them an ideal fixed brace option for those who feel self-conscious about their appearance during treatment.
Designed to straighten the front 6-8 teeth, ClearSmile is a removable brace option that offers similar advantages to Invisalign. Most people won’t notice you’re wearing the aligners and you can take them out for eating and brushing your teeth (and for those all-important close-up photos).
Inman Aligner Invisible Braces
If you are embarrassed by crowded or protruding front teeth, the Inman Aligner is a fast and effective way of guiding them back into place. Treatment can usually be completed within 6-16 weeks, and even if you are still undergoing treatment during your big event the aligners are removable so you can look and feel your best on the day.
Can I afford orthodontic treatment?
Major event planning – weddings in particular – can be expensive and justifying the cost of orthodontic treatment when you have so many other expenses to consider might seem extravagant. However, unlike a cake or a wedding dress, straighter teeth are an investment that will last a lifetime, and the numerous benefits to your health and self-esteem are priceless. At The Bristol Dental Practice, we offer interest free finance options to help as many patients as possible achieve the smile of their dreams. Costs will depend on the type of orthodontic treatment you and your orthodontist decide on, but you can see the estimated fees for each type of treatment on our website.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No! It’s true that teeth are easier to shift into their desired position while the jaw is still developing, which is why orthodontic work is traditionally associated with teens and young adults. However, there is no upper age limit for treating misaligned, gapped, or protruding teeth – however complex your case, there is a solution for you.
If you have a big event in the calendar, we recommend getting in touch with an orthodontist as soon as possible so you have the maximum amount of time to transform your smile. Our consultant specialist orthodontist, Mr Scott Deacon, is highly regarded throughout the South West. He has two decades of orthodontic experience and is a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Bristol, with a special interest in lingual braces and Invisalign. Contact us to book your initial consultation appointment today.