Every adult remembers the childhood dread of orthodontic work. Braces were extremely visible, looked silly, could easily get dirty and unattractive and made the already-difficult early teenage years even more difficult than they already were. Adults who avoided orthodontia or did not have the opportunity to have their teeth straightened when they were younger may still be hesitant to commit to standard metallic braces that can be painful and strange looking. Luckily, today there are numerous teeth straightening options for adults that do not involve the discomfort or embarrassment of braces at all, but can still provide the excellent results you expect.
Bear in mind, there are several types of braces available today. You can opt for clear braces that are less visible to others. You can also choose to have your braces mounted on the back of your teeth so that they are not seen at all when you open your mouth. Braces on the back side of your teeth can be uncomfortable before you are accustomed to them, and clear braces run the risk of attracting food particles that can be readily visible and ruin your smile. Still, for people who need severe teeth straightening options, different types of braces are what orthodontists tend to recommend for the best results in the shortest periods of time.
Teeth Straightening Without Braces
The best news is that for many people, teeth straightening without braces is a viable option. These methods tend to deliver the most effective results for those with slight to moderate orthodontic issues. Several different possibilities exist. Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to consult with you, determine your orthodontic needs and help you make the best possible selection for you.
Slight problems can be corrected easily and painlessly in the dentist’s office with the use of veneers. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain or composite that are affixed to the surface of your teeth. They can be used to cover discoloration or to clean up the appearance of slightly crooked or uneven teeth. They are simple to have applied, relatively inexpensive and have an excellent lifespan. The veneer’s color is matched to the current color of your teeth to make them less noticeable to others.
Cosmetic contouring can also be done in the dentist’s office. This is a good choice if your teeth are crowded and overlapping or if they are unevenly spaced with gaps. The procedure has minimal pain and is performed with a local anesthetic. Your teeth will be filed where necessary and filled in with composite in other areas as needed.
Finally, Invisalign has developed a reputation as the go-to choice for those who want their teeth corrected without braces. Invisalign uses custom-fitted trays similar to retainers to apply pressure to your teeth and bring them into alignment. You will need to work closely with your dentist or orthodontist during the process because as your teeth shift, your trays will need to be changed. Results are typically completed within about a year of treatment, the trays are not visible to onlookers and the treatment is relatively pain-free.
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