With so many teeth straightening options available today, it can be difficult to figure out which treatment option is the best fit for you and your pearly whites. While we all may hope that our teeth will magically stay white and in perfect shape no matter how much coffee and red wine we drink, the truth is that our teeth can become stained and damaged over time.
So, if you want to boost your smile, you’d be happy to know that advances in orthodontics have allowed dentists and orthodontists to effectively repair crooked and/or poorly spaced teeth in a relatively short amount of time.
Whether you have a job interview coming up, a wedding to attend or just want to improve your smile and get stunning results, keep reading as we will be discussing the various teeth straightening options available out there, as well as the importance of promoting and maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
The importance of regular dental visits
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is more than just brushing and flossing. It is also crucial that you visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and professional cleaning.
Traditional Braces
If you have crooked or crowded teeth then you may want to talk to a dental professional about having traditional braces put on. Now, you might be wondering are braces affordable? The answer is yes! Traditional braces are currently one of the more cost-effective teeth straightening solutions available. Traditional braces are made from standard metal brackets that are positioned on your teeth using an adhesive and then attached by metal wires. They will need to be periodically tightened, as this provides a steady pressure that will gradually align the jaw and straighten the teeth. While traditional braces will correct your teeth, they are 100% visible and can be uncomfortable at times.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional braces in terms of shape and size. What makes ceramic braces different, is their appearance. Ceramic braces are available in enamel-coloured, and clear options, allowing them to be virtually invisible. The downside to these braces is that the ceramic material can stain easily if not cared for properly. They are also slightly more expensive than traditional braces.
Incognito Hidden Brace
Also referred to as lingual braces, Incognito hidden braces are entirely invisible. This is because they are placed on the back of the teeth. Incognito hidden braces are fully customized to the patient’s mouth to achieve the desired straightness in a reasonable amount of time (depending on severity). These braces are a great option for people who do not want their braces to be visible. However, they are more expensive than traditional and ceramic braces. They can also be initially uncomfortable and hard to get used to, as well as difficult to clean.
Cosmetic Dentistry
If you’re uncomfortable with the thought of any kind of braces, cosmetic dentistry may be an option. Cosmetic dentistry for teeth straightening involves either dental veneers or dental bonding, and while either of these procedures can dramatically improve the look of your teeth, it is expensive, abrasive, and by no means permanent. Veneers need to be replaced every five to ten years.
Invisible Braces (Invisalign)
Invisible braces (aka Invisalign) are currently the most popular, and effective teeth-straightening solution on the market. They are simple to use and painless to wear. They are also virtually invisible and are usually able to correct crooked or crowded teeth within twelve months, depending on severity.
Invisalign clear braces are very different to traditional braces; there are no wires or adhesives used, and the aligners can often be put on in the comfort of your own home. Invisible braces often involve anywhere from 18-30 plastic aligners that are custom made to comfortably fit over your teeth.
More and more dentists and orthodontists are recommending that their patients choose invisible braces as they are not as damaging to the teeth, and require less dental office visits. Regardless of which tooth straightening solution you choose, it is recommended that you thoroughly discuss all of your options with a dental professional to ensure that you choose the best possible option for you.
