What is aesthetic orthodontics?

Aesthetic orthodontics, often called cosmetic orthodontics, consists of using certain types of braces - removable or fixed - to improve the appearance of adult teeth.

There is an increasing demand for cosmetic orthodontics that provides the same results as conventional orthodontics but with a more aesthetically pleasing process. For example, the braces used may be made of ceramic that matches the natural colour of the teeth, or even transparent braces which are much less visible.

Aesthetic orthodontics has the same efficacy as traditional orthodontics, with its main difference - regardless of the aesthetic or image factor - in that, they are slightly more expensive than traditional braces, depending on the materials chosen.

The braces used are typically made of either plastic or various metals such as titanium or steel and are usually indistinguishable from the patient’s teeth.

There are several material options:

• Ceramics
• Zirconium
• Sapphire
• Flexible plastic

Why is aesthetic orthodontics performed?

Orthodontics is carried out to correct problems in the teeth, such as:

• Overcrowding
• Wide gaps
• Crossbites
• Deep bites
• Under and overbites

Certain braces can correct these dental problems in adults and improve the position of both the teeth and the jaw. Aesthetic orthodontics achieves effective results while maintaining the appearance of the patient’s smile during the process.

Preparation

To wear aesthetic orthodontic braces, you will have to visit a dental or orthodontic specialist, who will study your teeth case and recommend the best treatment for you.

Care after aesthetic orthodontic treatment

You should always maintain correct oral hygiene, although in cases where the person wears orthodontics, it can be even more important.

Once orthodontic treatment is completed, the use of orthodontic retainers is sometimes recommended. These are a type of appliance, similar to a nightguard, that sits over your teeth to provide support and reinforce the results in the long term.

What types of braces are available?

Traditional orthodontic braces use materials such as stainless steel to align the teeth and require regular check-ups to tighten or loosen them. Although they are cheaper, they are not aesthetically pleasing. Below are various types of modern, aesthetic orthodontic removable aligners and fixed appliances, which in some cases, are much quicker at realigning the teeth.

Clear fixed appliances

• Plastic brackets
• Ceramic brackets
• InVu® braces
• Cfast

Lingual appliances

• Incognito®

Removable aligners

• Invisalign®
• Clearstep®
• Inman aligners®

Which specialist offers aesthetic orthodontic treatment?

You will need to visit an orthodontist or cosmetic dentist to receive aesthetic orthodontic treatment.