STb Social 6

People looking for straighter teeth and a better smile may like to consider STb Social 6, a type of lingual brace commonly used to treat overcrowding and gaps in the mouth.

As with other lingual braces, the wires and brackets of STb Social 6 are applied to the back of the teeth instead of the front surfaces and will therefore be almost invisible to other people.

This offers an attractive level of discreteness for patients who require orthodontic treatment of this kind but are uncomfortable with the aesthetic properties of traditional metal braces.

Comparable treatments include Invisalign, which provides a custom-made set of removable and invisible aligners for people with crooked or crowded rows of teeth.

However, the cosmetic advantage is not the only reason why many people decide to go for STb Social 6. The braces also boast innovative technology that sets them apart from other products of a similar nature.

The treatment uses a unique self-ligation system that lessens friction in the mouth, causing minimum discomfort and thereby reducing the number of times patients must visit the dentist.

When braces are described as self-ligating, it means the fixture is free of elastic bands or metal ties.

Self-ligating braces use a slide mechanism to hold the archwire, which reduces the amount of pressure exerted on the teeth.

This helps to achieve a shorter treatment time than other braces, with patients who use STb Social 6 often noticing results within weeks of having them fitted.

It is claimed that the average length of time people will need to wear the braces is between six and 16 weeks, although treatment durations will vary from person to person.

Appliances such as Damon braces – one of the most popular self-ligating systems – also employ low-friction mechanics to ensure faster treatment times and maximise comfort.

People considering STb Social 6 should remember they are not suitable for all patients. The braces are primarily designed to treat people who want to change the appearance of their teeth, rather than those looking to address more serious orthodontic problems.

As with other brace systems, it is very important that patients maintain a high standard of oral hygiene to ensure food does not become trapped and plaque is not allowed to build up.

STb Social 6 braces may have a mild impact on a patient's speech when they are first fitted, but this tends to abate in a short space of time.