Are you wanting to straighten your teeth but dread the idea of sporting traditional metal braces for a year and a half? Well, you’re not alone. Thankfully, there are other alternatives to metal brackets to obtain straight teeth. You no longer have to suffer 18 months of close-mouthed smiling while wearing braces. Let’s dive into the benefits of straightening your teeth and how it can be done without braces.
How To Straighten Teeth Without Braces
Straightening Teeth Without Braces
Whether you have crowded or crooked teeth, an under or overbite, or poorly spaced teeth, you may be a candidate for straightening your teeth without the use of braces. While some may think that straightening your teeth without braces may not be as effective as braces themselves, the truth is is that there are plenty of benefits in doing so. Key benefits include better oral hygiene, no diet restrictions, protection against grinding, better comfort, and no pinching or sores. With these in mind, let’s dive into the options.
Alternative Options for Braces:
Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is typically conducted in conjunction with traditional braces and involved the repositioning of your jaw. It is done when tooth movement alone can not accomplish straightening. It will improve the relationship between your upper and lower jawbones. Not everyone is a candidate for this type of orthodontic care.
Incognito or lingual braces
Incognito braces, or lingual braces, are basically just braces but on the other side of your teeth. This can be a wonderful alternative for those concerned about the look of braces. One important thing to note is that they tend to be more expensive than typical front braces. Therefore, if money is tight, you may want to consider other braces alternatives.
Retainers
Are you someone who only needs minor corrections in your teeth? If you’ve already gone through the pain of braces as a teen, a retainer may be the perfect fit. There are even transparent retainers that are significantly less noticeable. They’re also much less expensive. Unfortunately, not many people fall under the retainer category. It’s only a viable option for those with extremely minimal crookedness.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers, or dental bonding, is another possibility. These thin and hard shells permanently adhere to the front of your teeth. It provides results in a short amount of time, so if you’re feeling impatient, this may be your best choice. Whether you have crooked, misaligned, discolored, or chipped teeth, veneers will get the job done. One of the most important things to know is that deciding on veneers should not be a quick decision. In fact, they’re a permanent and irreversible decision. Your tooth’s enamel is removed before they’re bonded onto your teeth and they need to be replaced every five to ten years.
Invisalign – Clear Braces/Aligners
Invisalign is one of the most common choices for teens and adults looking for straighter teeth. These clear, plastic aligners are tailor-made to you and your tooth needs. They work pretty quickly and, as the name implies, are essentially invisible to the naked eye. Your friends and family will most likely never notice them unless you give the secret away. Clear aligners will be created for you by your dentist by using a 3D map. You’ll need to wear the clear retainers for at least 20 hours a day, and they must be removed when eating and practicing dental care. Each aligner will be used for two weeks before upgrading to the next. It’s an option that requires many visits to your dentist or orthodontist and may end up costing you a bit. However, many people admit the cost of Invisalign is worth straightening misaligned teeth to the correct position without having to deal with the pain of metal-colored braces.
Crooked teeth don’t need braces
Deciding between the incognito route, retainers, headgear, veneers, or Invisalign, is often a case-by-case scenario. Depending on your specific case, your needs, and your financial situation, the best option will differ.
Additional Reading: Frequently Asked Questions about Invisalign
All Smiles Family Dentist | Omaha Invisalign Clear Aligners
At All Smiles Family Dentistry, we are proud to provide high-quality care to all our patients both young and old thanks to our compassionate and experienced dental team. We offer a clean and comfortable clinic to help you feel relaxed during your visit. Contact All Smiles Family Dentist.