Regular visits to your dentist are a great way to maintain a healthy smile. But if you have crooked teeth and are concerned about potential esthetics, you might think of heading straight to the dentist for teeth straightening services.
Though you have several options, choosing which way you’d like your teeth straightened can be difficult.
If you’re unsure what types of straighter teeth are best for you, we’ll break down all your available options below. From in-office treatments to full-mouth braces, we’ve got you covered.
1. Metal Braces
Metal braces remain the most common option because they are highly durable and offer excellent control.
The downside is that metal braces are more likely to cause discomfort, while the materials also leave you with a metallic taste in your mouth. There’s no avoiding the aesthetic impact of metal braces. They’re just very noticeable.
However, they are smaller and more comfortable than they used to be, and you’ll generally be offered a range of color options for the bands that secure the wires to the brackets. The cost range for metal braces ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.
2. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces consist of a clear or tooth-colored material, making them much less noticeable than metal braces. Ceramic braces are bonded to the teeth using a special adhesive and are considered to be less irritable to the gums and lips than metal braces. Ceramic braces are also less likely to cause tooth discoloration than metal braces.
Until recently, braces were almost only worn by children, most commonly from ages ten to 14. Adult orthodontic patients often prefer ceramic braces because they are less noticeable.
Adults are keen to choose almost invisible braces. Patients generally find ceramic braces more comfortable to wear than metal ones. The high-quality materials aren’t abrasive, so that they won’t irritate your gums or the sides of your mouth.
After wearing ceramic braces for a few weeks, typically two to four, you shouldn’t feel any pain. The cost range for ceramic braces ranges from $4,000 to $8,000.
3. Teeth Straightening Retainers
Retainers are mouthguards that you wear at night, and they gradually move your teeth into the correct position. Retainers are less visible than braces, but they can be uncomfortable to wear and may require wearing for many years.
If you’re considering teeth straightening options, retainers are a good choice for many people. They’re less expensive than braces, and you can remove them when necessary, making them more convenient than other options. Retainers can also be less visible than braces, so people may not even know you’re wearing one.
Remember that retainers need to be worn regularly to be effective, and you’ll need to clean them regularly to avoid bacteria buildup.
4. Lingual Braces
The only way to know if lingual braces are right for you is to consult with your orthodontist. Lingual braces are an excellent teeth-straightening option for people looking for a discreet way to correct their smile.
While traditional metal braces are very noticeable, lingual braces are placed on the back of the teeth, making them nearly invisible. This type of braces is an excellent option for adults concerned about their smile’s appearance.
In addition to being discreet, lingual braces are very effective at correcting misaligned teeth. If you are considering braces, ask your orthodontist about lingual braces as an option. The cost range for Lingual braces ranges from $8,000 to $10,000
5. Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a minimally invasive tooth straightening option that can produce dramatic results. It can be used to repair chips, close gaps, correct sizes, improve the appearance of misshapen teeth, cover up stains, and change the color of your smile.
The procedure involves bonding a tooth-colored resin to your teeth and then shaping it before it is hardened with a UV light to improve your smile. Bonding is a popular option because it is less expensive than alternative procedures. Unlike other cosmetic dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers, dental bonding is reversible and can be completed in a single office visit.
The downside to bonding is that it is not as strong as other options and can chip and break over time. It is also one of the more expensive options. The cost range for dental bonding ranges from $100 to $400 per tooth.
6. Dental Veneers
Veneers are a thin porcelain shell that is bonded to the front of your teeth.
Veneers are an excellent choice for people who want to improve the look of their teeth without having to undergo extensive dental work. If you have crooked teeth, gaps between your teeth, problems with discoloration and stains, or worn down teeth, Veneers will work for you. They are also a good option for people who have sensitive teeth or gums.
Veneers are durable and long-lasting, and they can give you the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.
Veneers are not suitable for everyone and are more expensive than some other options.
You will need to consult with your dentist to see if veneers are a good option for you. On average, porcelain veneers cost between $600 and $2500 per tooth.
7. Invisalign
Invisalign is an excellent option for many people. Invisalign is a system of clear, removable aligners that are custom-made for your teeth. They gradually and gently move your teeth into the desired position.
Invisalign is virtually invisible, so no one will know you are wearing them unless you tell them. They are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want, and no one will know you are wearing them.
You will need to wear them for 20-22 hours a day, and you will need to see your dentist or orthodontist every 6-8 weeks for a progress check.
Invisalign is easy to clean just by brushing and rinsing your Invisalign aligners with lukewarm water and using Invisalign dental care cleaning crystals, specially designed to clean your aligners from bacteria and stains. The Invisalign cost is roughly $1,800 to $9,500 per treatment, depending on how complex the orthodontic problem is.
Wrapping It All Up
Many teeth straightening options are available to you, and each has its pros and cons. Be sure to talk to your dentist or orthodontist to see if it is a suitable dental service for your specific needs.
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