3 Procedures That Straighten Teeth

In today’s society, individuals are always searching for that perfect smile!  The first step to finding that “Hollywood smile” is making sure your teeth are aligned properly. 

Here are three different ways for you to straighten your teeth.  You will want to consult with your orthodontist before choosing one of them. If you lose sleep over how your teeth look and feel, you’ll enjoy the massive boost of confidence once your teeth are straight. Whether you’re a teenager or a young adult, there are many pain-free options to make your smile better than ever before. So what are your teeth straightening options? Here are three ways to remove your insecurity and start smiling more:

Invisalign

Invisalign is the trustworthy way to straighten your teeth without braces. It is painless, flexible, and almost invisible. You can straighten your teeth by using a series of transparent alignments that are custom made to gradually move your teeth to the most natural position.

It is a safe teeth straightening procedure.  Since it depends on 3D printing technologies, the success rate is 100%.  It only takes an average of one year to see the full impact.

When you visit an orthodontist who provides Invisalign, he will take a digital scan of your teeth to create the perfect 3D model of your mouth. The dental technicians work on your Invisalign tray to modify it. When your orthodontist approves the final design, it is printed using the latest automated 3D technologies.

Finally, you receive a series of aligners to change at home every two weeks and visit your provider every two months for checkups.

Pros:

·        Affordable price.

·        Removable.

·        Easy eating.

·        No discomfort from wires.

·        You can still kiss.

Cons:

·        For minor adjustments only.

·        Initial discomfort with every new alignment.

·        Must remove before eating or drinking.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces serve the same purpose as traditional braces, but instead of being on full display, the brackets and wires are fixed to the back of your teeth. Thus, they are entirely invisible and especially ideal if you are extremely self-conscious about your teeth.

Like invisible aligners, they are custom made to fit your teeth but they often take between 18-36 months to see their results. Furthermore, it is not the cheapest way to straighten teeth. Lingual braces are the most difficult type of braces for the orthodontist to install, so if you go with this option you’ll need a specialist.

While it could cost more than Invisalign, many patients claim it is well worth the investment.

Pros:

·        100% invisible.

·        Suitable for all ages.

·        Best for complex issues.

·        Doesn’t require self-discipline.

Cons:

·        Speech impediment.

·        Hard to clean or maintain.

·        Takes long to get used to.

·        Feels bulky in the mouth.

·        Make it hard to eat certain foods.

Surgery

Teeth straightening surgery is typically the last resort option.  Most people only turn to surgery when they want a radical and final solution to their problem.  It’s not as scary or as painful as many people imagine, so it’s important to put it in context.  People often choose teeth straightening surgery when the problem is not in the teeth but the jaw. While it’s a minor surgery, people don’t usually use this option to fix one or two crooked teeth.

It involves moving the gums and bones to put the teeth in their natural place.  Surgery has long-term benefits such as better breath, improved chewing, and an improved bite.  It also prevents misalignment from wreaking havoc in your mouth.

Pros:

·        Less time using braces.

·        Permanent results in short time.

Cons:

·        Risky.

These are three very different methods to straighten your teeth. Whatever teeth straightening option you go with, don’t attempt to do it yourself at home to avoid any complications. It is a good idea to discuss the details with your orthodontist and explore your options before making a decision.

Make sure to follow the instructions that your orthodontist gives to you so you can accelerate your treatment.  Above all, it is important to select the best orthodontist you can find in your area because your smile is essential to put it in safe hands.

With 28 years of experience, Dr. John Ordahl is a leading orthodontist in Colorado Springs.  We encourage you to contact Ordahl Orthodontics to schedule a consultation and ask about our new patient specials.  We will make sure your teeth straightening experience is an enjoyable and rewarding!