Dr Peter Ilori tells Ravinder Lilly that it is just as easy for adults as for children to have their teeth straightened IN the never-ending quest to look and feel better, more and more of us are taking advantage of modern techniques from Botox to detox.One of the latest trends, it seems, is a move towards a better smile as more and more adults opt for orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth.So what exactly does orthodontic treatment involve and is it suitable for all?Orthodontics is not new Ð there is historical evidence that suggests people used appliances to straighten the teeth as far back as a thousand years BC. Over the last few years, though, orthodontic treatment has come a long way.
Dr Peter Ilori, who runs Wycombe-based Octagon Orthodontics, suggests the reason for the new fashion status for orthodontics lies in new advances in treatments and materials, as well as fashion trends.He says: "Today, for the vast majority of us, the attractive, fit and healthy look is definitely in. And a healthy smile is an important part of this. But this has not always been the case.
"In Britain, there was once a time when having bad teeth was considered to be just a part of a personÕs character Ð remember the PoguesÕ Shane McGowan? It was, and still has, comedy connotations Ð Ken Dodd made a comedy career of looking goofy and Mike Myers sported a similar look in his latest film, Gold Member."One reason for the growing popularity of using braces is because celebrity watchers and the general public are following in the footsteps of the rich and famous here and overseas.
Dr Ilori says: "Sixty-two-year-old Faye Dunaway recently commented on her own orthodontic treatment by saying: ÔTom Cruise has them (braces) now, so IÕm right in style.Õ "And Tom Cruise, it seems, has been a one man tidal-wave trend-setter when it comes to braces, having brandished his smile wearing tooth coloured (ceramic braces) for quite a while."So, people are saying, if braces are good enough for Tom Cruise, then they are good enough for anyone."
He adds: "Apart from trend-setting celebs, there are three main reasons why adult orthodontics is growing in popularity. Young adults who did not receive full orthodontic treatment as children now seek it because they are financially independent. Another is that older adults are following professional advice to wear braces because straighter teeth are easier to clean, maintain and restore. And, finally, more and more people are taking the attitude that beauty is not just the remit of the young Ð why shouldnÕt everyone take advantage of new technology to feel and look better?"
New materials and modern advances mean that the latest braces are lighter, more comfortable to wear and treatment is faster, too. There are additional aesthetic treatment options too. Straighter teeth are easier to whiten and, some would say most importantly, there is no pain with the treatment."He concludes by saying: "A consultation at Octagon Orthodontics will start you on your journey to a great smile and improved self-confidence."