In an ideal world, you’d have straight teeth without needing to visit the dentist for regular check-ups and orthodontic treatment. Unfortunately, not everyone is so fortunate. Many people need braces to correct crook teeth or gaps between them. Fortunately, there are now several procedures that can help you achieve straight teeth. Here are three dental procedures that can result in teeth straightening with the help of a skilled and qualified dentist.
Dental Procedures #1: Invisalign
Invisalign is one of the most popular ways of straightening teeth. It is an alternative to fixed braces, where customized clear brackets and bands are used to adjust teeth without being seen. Invisalign works by moving the teeth gradually over time, which sets it apart from traditional braces.
You’ll be given a certain number of “re-aligning” instructions, and your dentist will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment. You’ll wear a new set of custom aligners every two weeks, which should shift your teeth as desired.
Gradually, you will notice your teeth coming into alignment. However, this will depend on how severe the misalignment was and how many sets of custom aligners you need for a complete recovery.
Dental Procedures #2: Orthodontic Braces
Braces are one of the classic dental procedures that have been around for decades. They fit your teeth and can correct a wide range of dental issues. There are two main types of braces: brackets and wires. The brackets help attach wires to the teeth, which then apply pressure to the teeth to move them into the desired position.
Braces usually come with a handful of “side effects.” This can include pain and irritation to the gums, along with slight swelling. Braces are usually used for children and teenagers. During braces, you will need to use a special toothbrush for braces that can help remove food particulate from the gaps inside the braces.
If you have severe dental misalignment, your doctor can recommend braces for you, too. But, the good news is that more and more adults are deciding to wear braces since there are now options for more discreet braces.
After the removal of braces, your dentist might recommend retainers that you will have to wear at night to ensure the teeth remain in place. This is because sometimes teeth tend to leave their place and retainers can act as a final guard to help them get used to the new alignment.
Dental Procedures #3: Fixed Braces (Orthodontic Treatment)
Fixed braces are a tried-and-true dental technique used to straighten teeth. They’re most commonly used in conjunction with Invisalign or braces and are often recommended for adults or children with moderate to severe dental misalignment. Fixed braces typically consist of metal and come in various colors like silver and white. While they might not be as visually appealing as other orthodontic methods, they are still very effective.
Fixed braces help close gaps between teeth, open up crowded teeth, or reposition an improperly positioned tooth that’s causing problems. The treatment usually lasts between 12 and 18 months and will cost you around $4,000 to $6,000.
Conclusion
Straight teeth are incredibly important for your general oral health and appearance. If you have misaligned teeth, you need to find a dentist who specializes in orthodontic treatments. Misaligned teeth can cause all kinds of dental issues, from missing teeth to gum disease. Orthodontic treatments can be expensive, but they’re well worth it. If you are looking for ways to straighten your teeth, you should consider visiting your dentist to discuss your options. They will be able to recommend the best treatment for you based on your teeth and mouth health.
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