Having straight teeth can help you smile more confidently. Often times, when people mention teeth straightening, they think of braces. However, wearing braces is not the only method for straightening teeth. In fact, depending on the oral condition you or your child may have, you may not need them at all.
Conditions like an underdeveloped palate, misaligned teeth, or overcrowding can be treated with solutions other than braces. Talk to a dentist in Guelph and see if one of the following options may be suitable for you:
Retainers
Retainers can be used to adjust teeth that are crooked due to minor overcrowding. There are two options for retainers:
- Removable Retainers – As the name suggests, these retainers can be removed if the situation calls for it — perhaps you need to attend a special event or just need a short break from your retainers. This is an excellent option for those who want to improve their smile.
- Fixed Retainers – These types of retainers are bonded to the inner surface of teeth with dental cement. It is an excellent option for long-term bite correction.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are often used to treat an underdeveloped, or narrow, palate and an underbite. While it is most commonly recommended for children, adults can benefit from it as well.
It uses gradual pressure to widen the roof of the mouth, causing new bone to grow. This creates the space needed for teeth to move to their correct positions. The expander is attached to the upper molars with bands. It has a hole in the center where a key can be inserted to make gradual adjustments. This can be done by either you or your dentist. The expansion process will take about a month to complete, but the device needs to be kept in place for up to eight months.
The expander is rarely painful, however, you may experience some discomfort. Your dentist may recommend painkillers as treatment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners resemble mouthguards; but these are thin and nearly invisible. This is an excellent method for those who wish to have a more discreet treatment.
They are made of clear plastic that is moulded to fit snugly over your teeth. They are meant to treat mild issues like small gaps between teeth, slight protrusions, and minor misalignment. Clear aligners are to be worn for up to 22 hours a day. You will also need to replace them every few weeks as directed by your dentist.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a cosmetic option for those looking to change the appearance of their smile. Dental veneers are made out of either porcelain or composite resin. They are designed to fit over your teeth and to mimic their natural look and reflectivity. However, because they are cosmetic, they may not offer the same health benefits of other treatments.
See your dentist so they can examine your teeth and decide if you need any one of these solutions or dental braces. londoncitydental.ca is home to several dentists who can help you decide which option is the most suitable. However, no matter which method you opt for, one important thing to remember is to adhere to a strict oral hygiene regimen during treatment to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
