Crooked teeth cause numerous problems, from jaw strain and headaches to an increased chance of tooth decay. They can also make people extremely self-conscious when they talk or smile. Because of this, teeth straightening is becoming increasingly popular among adults.
Although you may have associated orthodontics with teens in the past, these days, many adults are deciding to straighten their teeth through various methods, from clear aligners to dental crowns. If you would like to improve your smile and wonder how to straighten your teeth, here are four methods to consider.
How to Straighten Teeth: Traditional Metal Braces
When you first consider how to straighten teeth, you probably immediately think of traditional metal braces.
These braces use brackets, wire, and bonding material to exert constant pressure on the teeth, encouraging them into the correct position.
This method is highly effective for treating misaligned or crooked teeth, and the treatment is often combined with a retainer to be worn at night to maintain the desired results after the braces are removed.
On the downside, braces can be uncomfortable, and some foods can’t be eaten while wearing them, such as nuts and chewing gum. Another disadvantage of metal braces is their obvious appearance.
Invisible Clear Aligners
A popular orthodontic treatment alternative to braces is clear aligners, such as ClearCorrect, used at No Gaps Dental. Clear aligners are often favoured over braces because they are virtually invisible and much more comfortable, although the alignment process can take longer and is typically more expensive.
Although clear aligners also use pressure to move the teeth gently, they do not require brackets and wires. Instead, the patient receives a set of clear plastic trays, similar to mouth guards, custom made for them, that they wear for weeks at a time before switching to a new set. Gradually, the clear aligners force the teeth into the proper position.
Unlike braces, aligners are removable and must be taken out to eat and drink. This means you don’t have to alter your diet while undergoing the treatment. However, you must make sure to clean them and brush your teeth well, or debris can get inside, discolour the aligners, and damage your teeth.
Dental Crowns
Braces, aligners, and other orthodontic treatment require a certain level of commitment. They can take months or years to achieve the final result, and the process often involves lifestyle changes such as altering your diet. If you’re wondering how to straighten teeth without wearing braces or other orthodontic apparatus, dental crowns or veneers could be the right option for you.
A dental crown is a cap that covers a natural tooth. Dental crowns are most commonly used to treat damaged teeth but are also a popular method to correct crooked teeth. Most dental crowns are made from metal or a combination of porcelain and metal. At No Gaps Dental, we offer ceramic crowns created using CEREC technology.
The benefit of dental crowns over other methods of teeth straightening is they can be used to achieve a perfect tooth shape and colour, unlike traditional braces, which alter the position of the natural teeth without addressing other aesthetic elements. Dental crowns are also suitable if you have multiple teeth you would like to straighten, or a single dental crown can be used for one problematic tooth.
To fit a dental crown, your dentist will file down the surface of your natural tooth to ensure a perfect fit, take a mould or digital impression of the dental crown site, and then fit the dental crown to ensure it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Veneers
Like a dental crown, veneers are a cosmetic solution for crooked teeth and teeth that are chipped, stained, or misshapen. Veneers are custom made for the individual from a thin porcelain moulding that is bonded to the tooth. They can be used to cosmetically alter an individual tooth or a group of teeth.
However, unlike dental crowns, veneers do not cover the whole tooth. Instead, they sit on one surface, creating a beautifully straight tooth. Because they don’t cap the entire tooth in the way a dental crown does, veneers are typically only used on front teeth.
One of the advantages of both veneers and dental crowns is that the process is much quicker than traditional alignment through braces or clear aligners. In some cases, you can even get a veneer or dental crown fitted in a single appointment.
Avoid DIY Teeth Straightening
If you are wondering how to straighten teeth, you may be tempted to try a DIY method.
However, you must never attempt to perform dental procedures at home, including straightening crooked teeth.
These home techniques, often involving dental floss, rubber bands, and paper clips can lead to serious side effects such as cracked teeth, oral infection, malocclusion, tooth decay, and trauma.
Start Your Journey to a More Confident Smile
For those suffering from crooked teeth, teeth straightening treatments from clear aligners to dental crowns are the key to restoring smiles and confidence. There are benefits and drawbacks for each method of teeth straightening, whether discomfort, expense, or aesthetics, so you must discuss your options with a dentist to find the best option.
At No Gaps Dental, we offer thorough consultations to all our patients to provide care tailored to their individual needs. Our team of dental professionals understands that feeling insecure about your teeth can deeply impact your life, and we are proud to offer safe, practical solutions to tackle your oral treatment.
If you are looking for advice about straightening your misaligned teeth, contact No Gaps Dental today at (02) 8806 0227 to arrange an initial consultation and start your journey to a more confident smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.