Did you know that having a crooked smile can damage your oral health in addition to your self-confidence? If your teeth are overcrowded or uneven, it’s harder to brush and floss all of their surfaces. This leaves you more prone to dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Fortunately, your dentist can help by providing orthodontic options like traditional braces and Invisalign. How do you know, though, which option is right for you? Keep reading to learn more about each so that you can make an informed decision!
Treatment #1: Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular alternative to popular braces because it relies on clear, plastic aligner trays instead of metal brackets. That makes this an ideal solution for those who are feeling particularly self-conscious about their uneven grin. The aligners are customized to fit snuggly over your teeth to gently shift them into their ideal placements and are perfect for somewhat overcrowded or gapped smiles.
It’s important to note that you’ll need to wear your aligners for 22 hours every day which essentially means you should expect to have them in your mouth all day and night, except during meals. That said, there are little to no dietary restrictions with this method because you simply remove them to eat and then put them back in.
Your dentist will provide a new set of aligners every 1-2 weeks to account for the ongoing movement in your mouth. In most cases, treatment is completed in about 12 months although it can be more or less depending on your needs. If your teeth are severely uneven and require more torque, or if you have an extensive bite misalignment, then your dentist might recommend traditional braces, instead.
Treatment #2: Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are the tried-and-true method to straighten your smile. This technique relies on metal brackets and wires that are attached to the front of your pearly whites to slowly move them back into alignment. They allow your dentist to have more flexibility and control over the movement of your teeth because they can adjust the tension on the wires as needed.
Braces are permanently installed for the duration of your treatment so there’s no need to keep track of how long you’re wearing them. That makes them a great choice for those who may have a hard time keeping track of their aligners. Remember, though, that the brackets can be fragile so you’ll need to avoid eating anything overly hard or sticky that could damage them.
Ultimately, the only way to decide which options works best for you is to consult with your dentist. They’ll examine your mouth first and then make a recommendation based on your needs. Either way, once treatment is complete you’ll have the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always dreamed of!
About the Practice
At Dental Center of Lakewood, you benefit from two experts who collaborate to provide a full range of services under one roof. If you’re looking to straighten your smile, they can help! They use state-of-the-art technology, like digital imaging and impressions, to enhance patient comfort and provide the most accurate results. Plus, their compassionate staff provides friendly service so that you always feel welcome. If you’re interested in a consultation, you’re welcome to make an appointment on the website or by calling (214) 823-5253.