The simple answer to this question is yes, you can absolutely straighten your teeth as an adult. More and more adults are now finally opting for the choice to address their slightly wonky smile. Addressing your smile anxieties can be a life-changing moment and there is no need to just leave teeth straightening to teens anymore, especially as there are some fantastic options available that are pretty much totally invisible – go and meet your dentist Welwyn Garden City to discover which option could be best suited to you.

What are the most discreet options?

The last few years have witnessed a boom in clear brace style orthodontic treatments. If you’ve missed the trend then don’t worry, we’ve got all the information on Invisalign and if it could be right for you.

Invisalign uses clear plastic removable aligners that fit around your teeth. They are fantastic as they fit into your lifestyle without causing you any inconvenience. You will still be able to eat and drink as normal and can even take them out for those extra special occasions. They are extremely comfortable as there are no metal brackets or wires to cause irritation or soreness against your lips and gums. They are also quick with many patients noticing a change within 6 months.

What’s the process?

You will need to visit your dentist and talk through the various teeth-straightening options. If you both decide Invisalign is right for you, you need to have your 3D scans done, these scans then provide a model of your teeth within a matter of minutes. Once you’ve seen this and a simulation of what your results should be, you are ready to proceed with the treatment.

The scan will then produce your treatment plan and you will have your aligners made. You will have different ones that you usually have to change every few weeks. For best results you need to be wearing them every day for 22 hours per day. Every 4-6 weeks you’ll be brought back to the practice to check on your progress and once your treatment is complete you’ll just need to continue to wear a retainer when you sleep.

Taking care of aligners

As one of the major benefits of your aligners is the fact they are invisible to others, it’s important you take great care in keeping them crystal clean and clear. We recommend always carrying a toothbrush and toothpaste with you. You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day, but ideally after every meal, as any trapped dirt or bacteria will then sit between your brace and gums, which left repeatedly unattended could lead to gum disease. Make sure you are flossing between each tooth or using an interdental style brush to get inside the hard-to-reach areas. Rinsing your aligners every time you take them out and put them in is also advised and most practices recommend investing in some aligner cleaning tablets or crystals that help get rid of any hard tartar or plaque. They all come with unique instructions so pay special attention to these. Most cleaning solutions are available online, or at your local chemist.