What orthodontics in Berkshire can do for your mental health
In 2022 we’re under more pressure and scurininty than ever, we’re expected to be successful at work, at home and socially, and on top of this we’re now constantly attached to our smartphones. With endless streams of feeds with friends and family reporting their lives to us. And as much as we at Old Windsor love and encourage connection, it can be super hard for those who don’t feel confident about their face to feel daily pressure to be present online. So what can Orthodontics in Berkshire do to help with this? 
What are Orthodontics and what do they do?
Orthodontics in Berkshire are an area of dentistry that covers any treatment of the irregularities of the jaw and teeth. When you first visit us for an orthodontics appointment we will discuss with you what you are wanting to achieve through orthodontic treatments. We will likely take X-rays and or make models or take photographs of your teeth. After we have the appropriate tools we will decide with you what needs to happen moving forward. The most common types of appliance when using orthodontics in Berkshire:
Number One: Fixed/Fitted braces – These are the most common types of braces and what most people are used to seeing. They are made from wire and metal brackets that are fitted to the teeth.
Number Two: Removable braces – These are very common practice now, with brands such as Invisalign making them super accessible to all. These trays fit over the teeth and can be used to move teeth into new positions.
Number Three: Functional Appliances – these braces fit together both upper and lower teeth.
Number Four: Headgear – though headgear is not an orthodontic appliance when it’s partnered with other applications it can be used to move teeth and jaws.
Why is this relevant to my mental health?
It has been reported that body dissatisfaction is associated with poorer quality of life and psychological distress.This body dissatisfaction goes beyond just our bodies, it’s also related to our teeth. If you are a patient who feels embarrassed about their teeth then you could notice that this is affecting you day to day: not wanting to look in the mirror or take photos, covering your mouth when you laugh or smile or even not wanting to spend time with others, particularly when it comes to eating and drinking. All of these are habits we adapt to make us feel safer in our environments, covering up to protect ourselves but all these habits and stresses cause brains and bodies more and more pressure that it doesn’t need. When we’re anxious our bodies fill with all kinds of unhelpful hormones that have larger negative impacts on our mental health.
How can orthodontics help?
We are so lucky to now live in a world where teeth straightening is widely socially accepted and available. Working with us at Old Windsor we can put together a tailored plan to help fix your tooth worries. Orthodontic treatments can feel scary at first but our team of highly trained professionals will be with you to guide you through each step.
