Clear aligners
In this section:
Finaghy Orthodontic Centre in Belfast has been providing the Inman Aligner for some years now. The Inman aligner is a useful option for relatively mild cases of protruding or crowded teeth and treatment can often be completed in 12-16 weeks.
The Inman Aligner is a removable brace composed of plastic and metal components. At the front of the appliance are two spring loaded aligner bows that fit easily over the front teeth. These bows gently oppose eachother providing a constant gentle pressure on the teeth, to align them and improve dental aesthetics.
The Inman Aligner is relatively easy to use and can be inserted and removed at any time. Removal helps to minimise interference with day to day activities such as eating or toothbrushing. The aligner can be used as a stand alone treatment or to prealign teeth fir further dental work. Once teeth have moved to the desired position, removable or permanent retainers will need to be worn so they remain in their new position.
After your initial consultation, an impression is taken of the teeth and at the next visit the aligner is fitted. At this visit small tooth coloured composite anchors are bonded to the teeth. It is also often necessary to thin down between the teeth to provide room for alignment. For the duration of the treatment you will be reviewed every 2-4wks to monitor progress and adjust the aligner.
The system designed by Orthocaps comprises two types of transparent aligners. These two types differ from one another in both their composition and the amount of pressure they exert. This innovation is called the TwinAligner® system. During the day, use the hardCAPS aligners comfortably in any setting, whether you are home, at work, or just generally out and about.
At night when you are asleep or simply less active, softoCAPS aligners also provide intense correction. This alternation of different pressures makes orthodontic correction with the Orthocaps TwinAligner® system extraordinarily precise and well suited to your active lifestyle. Orthocaps becomes an effortless and inconspicuous part of your daily routine.
Finaghy Orthodontics
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
Orthodontists are fully qualified dentists who have completed a further period of training and examinations in order to specialise in orthodontics. A specialist orthodontist will have carried out at least 3 years of extra training in a hospital setting after attending dental school and passed an exam set by one of the Royal Colleges. Only those dentists who have completed this training and hold an MOrth or equivalent can register with the GDC as a specialist orthodontist.
Finaghy Orthodontics
What will happen at my first visit?
We will introduce ourselves and explain what will happen at the visit. An orthodontist will examine your jaws and teeth, using a small mirror and a special ruler. We may need to take photographs, x-rays and moulds (impressions) of your teeth. We will explain the problems with your teeth and how we can help. This may involve braces and/or extractions.
If you are under 18 years old, you will have an IOTN score done (index of orthodontic treatment need). This will help to determine if you need treatment and if you are eligible for NHS treatment.
Finaghy Orthodontics
Are fixed braces painful?
When orthodontic fixed braces are initially fitted and teeth start to move there may be some discomfort. This is normal and will only last a few days. If necessary ‘headache type’ painkillers can be used. Fitting the fixed brace itself is a relatively painless procedure during which the teeth need to be kept dry & free from saliva during the process with cheek retractors & suction.
Finaghy Orthodontics
What are clear aligners?
A clear aligner is like a thin gum shield, custom for each patient using a clear thermoplastic material. A succession of aligners is worn, each bringing the teeth a little closer to the desired position. The aligners are virtually invisible and are therefore an attractive option from the standpoint of appearance.
Aligners can be very effective at correcting mild/moderate dental irregularity, however there are several limitations. In the more severe cases, notably those where extractions are required, aligners may lack the necessary control of the teeth to give consistently good results and often lead to less than ideal results. The practice offers both Orthocaps and the Invisalign clear aligner systems.
Treatments
Clear braces, sometimes called invisible braces are a clear acrylic aligner that fit perfectly to the outside of your teeth. They're one of the more popular choice for adults looking to straighten their teeth as they create a very subtle solution.
Treatments
Lingual braces sit on the inside surface of your teeth. They're often called hidden braces, because their positioning means you can't see them from the outside.
Next steps
To book a consultation, get in touch today.
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