Teeth straightening is not only an aesthetic improvement but can be beneficial to your overall health. This is because gaps and crooked teeth can result in jaw alignment issues, pain and tooth decay. However, before visiting a dental office in Prince Albert, you might have a couple of questions about achieving straight teeth that you want answered. As you continue reading, we have included some of the basics of four different teeth-straightening methods, including several affordable and efficient options.
Among these methods are Invisalign, traditional braces, hidden braces and porcelain veneers. That said, if you are looking to improve your smile with teeth replacement options, we also provide dentures in Prince Albert. This information can be found on our website.
Invisalign
Invisalign is becoming an increasingly popular option for teeth straightening. This is because patients can experience the same benefits as traditional braces but without the look of metal brackets and wires. Instead, Invisalign is a set of clear aligner trays that help move your teeth to the desired position.
To start this process, a dentist near you can make a 3D map of your mouth. These 3D images will create the basis for your aligners. Aligners will typically be received every two weeks and you will be required to wear them for 20-22 hours each day. Following these guidelines, the typical treatment time for Invisalign is between one and two years.
Traditional Braces
Your dentist in Prince Albert might suggest metal braces as an option for teeth straightening. This option involves brackets, bands and wires bonded to your teeth that gradually guide your teeth back into place. Traditional braces are among the most common methods for adjusting a bite and are known for being highly effective. Treatment can last anywhere between 6 months and a few years, depending on the needed corrections.
Metal braces continue to improve and are now known to be more comfortable and aesthetic than they have been in previous years.
Hidden Braces
Although this option is technically still braces, hidden braces are attached to the backside of your teeth. Hidden or lingual braces tend to be more expensive than traditional metal braces but are still a viable option if you are looking to avoid the look of braces.
Porcelain Veneers
Another alternative for straightening your front teeth is a set of porcelain veneers. Using this method, you can mask slight imperfections in your front teeth. A veneer is a thin shell that has been custom-designed by your dentist to fit over the top of your tooth. Each shell is permanently bonded to your tooth but doesn’t change the shape of it. Instead, veneers are used to minimize gaps, hide discolouration and fix chips on your teeth. Veneers are known to be durable and stain-resistant. As a result, porcelain veneers can be an excellent option for minor alignment problems.
To complete this process, it is expected to take two to three visits, with the shell taking a few weeks to arrive at your dental office in Prince Albert after being created.
The only drawback with dental veneers is that they are permanent. This is because to place a veneer, a dentist will need to remove the surface enamel of your tooth to attach the porcelain veneer. The process cannot be reversed and will also require replacement every 7-10 years.
Get Started on Your Teeth Straightening Journey Today!
For help with your teeth straightening journey or to learn more about teeth replacement options, including dentures near you, we encourage you to contact us today. Regardless of what you decide, we are excited to be a part of your journey towards a perfect smile!