Cosmetic orthodontics focuses on correcting crooked and crowded teeth to improve the look of smiles. While some people need orthodontic treatment to correct serious issues, others choose cosmetic orthodontics to enhance the look of their smile and improve their overall appearance. A straight and beautiful smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
We provide cosmetic orthodontics at Hawthorne Orthodontics in Lawndale and the surrounding area. As an orthodontist, our team can help you achieve a more beautiful smile. Call us today at 310-921-8333 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Misaligned teeth or jaws can lead to a wide range of problems or sometimes cause no problems at all. Orthodontic treatment is not only for people who need to fix serious orthodontic problems. Anyone who wants to enhance the appearance of their smile through straighter teeth can benefit from cosmetic orthodontics. The main motivation for many patients who seek orthodontic treatment is an improvement in appearance rather than function.
The perception of dental appearance is of more importance now than ever before. Cosmetic orthodontics can help people improve their smiles by amending misaligned teeth and improving their appearance. Choosing to get braces for cosmetic reasons is an entirely valid choice and one that might be in many people’s best interests.
Traditional braces consist of standard metal brackets fixed to the front surface of teeth. A metal archwire connects the brackets and tightens throughout treatment at various intervals. Metal brackets are still the most common orthodontic option. Tightening the wire places pressure on different areas to gradually align the teeth.
Patients with these braces will require periodic tightening every four to six weeks to straighten teeth. Compared to other orthodontic options, metal braces are adjusted more aggressively and are more effective at straightening teeth quickly and with control. While metal braces are a very effective orthodontic option, they are also more visible than other treatments.
Invisible braces are also available so people can achieve more attractive smiles with less visible appliances. Clear aligners are nearly invisible plastic trays that are custom-fit to teeth. The treatment process involves wearing a series of trays that progressively move teeth over time. Patients must wear their aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours a day for the treatment to work.
Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces, with brackets and wires. However, ceramic braces utilize clear brackets, which are less noticeable over natural teeth and not visible in photos. Patients can also choose to have brackets color-matched to their natural teeth, so they blend in better. Invisible braces are great options for people interested in cosmetic orthodontics since they do not obstruct appearance and are more aesthetically pleasing.
Crooked and crowded teeth are often very noticeable, leading to adverse social reactions and a poor self-concept. These irregularities can disrupt social interaction, interpersonal relationships, and mental wellbeing. The results from a 2017 study showed a significant association between self-esteem and perceived dental aesthetics.
Feeling self-conscious about teeth can hold people back from many things due to feeling less attractive or less confident. Studies have shown that orthodontic treatment can improve people’s perceived image of dental and facial features. A study in the European Journal of Orthodontics found that undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy resulted in a significant improvement in adult patients’ self-esteem. A confident smile can be the foundation for success in all avenues of life, from school to work to relationships.
The main factor that determines attractiveness is a person’s face. Physical attractiveness can affect life in various ways and to a significant extent. People often perceive attractive people as more friendly, intelligent, interesting, and socially competent. Studies have shown that the correction of malocclusions can improve people’s perceived image of dental and facial features.
Everyone’s teeth look slightly different. However, in people with crooked and misaligned teeth, there is a more noticeable difference. Irregularities in teeth position can have a significant impact on a smile’s aesthetics and attractiveness. Cosmetic orthodontics can correct and straighten crowded, crooked, and misaligned teeth and move them into a better position. This movement ultimately improves a person’s appearance.
Cosmetic orthodontics can help you achieve a more beautiful smile. Our orthodontist and team at Hawthorne Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 310-921-8333 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Am I too old for cosmetic orthodontics?
People who are unhappy or self-conscious about their smile can improve how their teeth look through cosmetic orthodontics at any age. Although we will consider many variables when developing a customized treatment plan, age is rarely a deciding factor. Cosmetic orthodontic treatment can be just as effective for adults as for adolescents.
How can I prevent my ceramic braces from staining?
The brackets in ceramic braces do not stain easily, but the elastic ties can. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing after every meal will help prevent staining over time. We also recommend avoiding foods with a higher staining power and dark liquids.
Do clear aligners stain?
Taking aligners out when eating or drinking anything other than water can help prevent staining. Patients will only wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before moving on to the next set in their treatment series. If a set of aligners does become stained, patients can replace them eventually.
How can I choose the right cosmetic orthodontic option?
The right cosmetic orthodontic option will vary for each patient’s needs and cosmetic goals. People should research their options and have a consultation to discuss questions and concerns. Our team will work with each patient to determine a personalized treatment plan to help them achieve their cosmetic goals.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Patients may feel soreness or tenderness when putting trays in or taking them out. It is also normal to experience some discomfort when moving on to the next set of aligners in the series. While discomfort is a sign that treatment is working, over-the-counter pain medication can minimize temporary discomfort.