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Here at Seabreeze Orthodontics, our patients in Myrtle Beach often ask us – What is cosmetic orthodontics? Â
That’s a great question! And Dr. Juanis committed to keeping his patients informed on the questions that matter to them, so that’s why he sat down with us and went over the ins and outs of this fascinating aspect of orthodontic treatment.Â
So sit back, relax, grab a snack (sugar-free, maybe?) and let’s learn all about cosmetic orthodontics! What is it, who is it for, how does it work, and everything in between?Â
Cosmetic Orthodontics – What Is It?
Simply put, cosmetic orthodontics means orthodontic treatment that isn’t directed towards treating some functional issue related to tooth and jaw health but instead is concerned with making aesthetic corrections. That is to say, cosmetic orthodontics is all about achieving the most beautiful smile possible! Many patients may not have underlying tooth and jaw issues that will affect their quality of life from a functional perspective, but they just aren’t quite happy with their smile! Luckily, that’s what cosmetic orthodontics is all about!Â
Why Would I Get Cosmetic Treatment?
Did you know a beautiful smile can significantly boost self-confidence and create a positive first impression? It’s true! The quality of your smile can improve social interactions, personal relationships and even lead to professional opportunities. A confident smile can enhance your self-esteem, making you feel more comfortable and assured in all sorts of social and professional settings.
What Are Some Options For Cosmetic Treatment?
While the underlying reasons a patient would seek out cosmetic orthodontic treatment may differ from a more functional treatment, the actual process is usually going to be pretty similar. That means evaluation with a trained orthodontist, then a treatment plan recommendation, usually involving either traditional metal braces, Invisalign, or another option.
Since aesthetic considerations are often at the front-of-mind with patients seeking cosmetic treatment, it’s often a good fit to pair them with a low-profile option such as clear ceramic braces or Invisalign.
Invisalign – Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a popular choice for cosmetic orthodontic treatment. They consist of a series of custom-made, transparent trays that gradually shift the teeth into their desired positions. Clear aligners are virtually invisible, removable, and offer a more discreet alternative to traditional braces.
Ceramic braces – Ceramic braces function similarly to traditional metal braces but feature tooth-colored or clear brackets and wires. These braces blend in with the natural tooth color, making them less noticeable. Ceramic braces provide effective teeth straightening while offering an aesthetic advantage over traditional metal braces.
Lingual braces – Lingual braces are another cosmetic orthodontic option. Unlike traditional braces that are placed on the front surface of the teeth, lingual braces are attached to the back surface, making them virtually invisible. They offer a discreet treatment option for individuals concerned about the appearance of braces.
Let’s Talk Benefits!Â
There are a lot of great things to say about cosmetic orthodontics. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages:
Improved aesthetics
One of the primary benefits of cosmetic orthodontics (it’s all in the name!) is the significant improvement in the smile’s aesthetics. By correcting misaligned teeth, closing gaps, and addressing other dental irregularities, cosmetic orthodontic treatments can help you achieve a more symmetrical, aligned, and visually appealing smile.
Confidence and Self-Esteem Boost
Cosmetic orthodontics can have a transformative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. When people feel more confident about their smile, they are more likely to engage in social interactions, express themselves freely, and feel positive about their overall appearance. Enhanced self-esteem can have a positive ripple effect on various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional opportunities.
Better Oral Health due to Improved Dental Alignment
Even though cosmetic orthodontics is primarily concerned with aesthetics, there are functional benefits as well! Correcting dental misalignments through cosmetic orthodontics also contributes to improved oral health. Misaligned teeth can make proper oral hygiene practices challenging, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. By aligning the teeth properly, cosmetic orthodontics facilitates easier cleaning, reducing the likelihood of oral health problems in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s wrap up by answering some common questions related to cosmetic orthodontics, for instance:
What is the ideal age for cosmetic orthodontic treatment?
Cosmetic orthodontic treatments can be suitable for individuals of various ages. While most treatments are commonly associated with teenagers and young adults, advancements in orthodontic techniques have made it possible for adults of any age to benefit from cosmetic orthodontics.
How long does cosmetic orthodontic treatment typically take?
The duration of cosmetic orthodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen treatment method. In general, treatment can range from several months to a few years. Clear aligners often provide faster results compared to traditional braces, but your orthodontist will determine the specific timeline based on your individual needs.
Will cosmetic orthodontic treatment be painful?
While some discomfort or pressure may be experienced initially when wearing orthodontic appliances or aligners, it is typically temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Dr. Faja-Fernandez will guide you on handling any potential discomfort and making necessary adjustments throughout the treatment process.
Can I still eat and engage in regular activities during cosmetic orthodontic treatment?
You can continue eating and engaging in regular activities during cosmetic orthodontic treatment. However, following your orthodontist’s instructions regarding dietary restrictions and proper care for your orthodontic appliances is important to ensure the treatment progresses as planned.
Will cosmetic orthodontic treatment affect my speech?
While it may take a short adjustment period for your speech to adapt to the orthodontic appliances, most patients quickly adapt, and any speech changes are typically minor and temporary. Lingual braces or clear aligners may have less impact on speech compared to traditional braces.
Call Today to Schedule Your Free Consultation!Â
Now that you’ve learned all about cosmetic orthodontics, the next step is to call your friendly neighborhood team at Seabreeze Orthodontics! We proudly present leading care to patients in and around Myrtle Beach, so if you’re in the area, come say hello! Your smile will thank you!