Which Teeth Straightening Option Is Right for You?

Teeth straightening can do more than simply enhance the appearance of one's smile. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, helping patients maintain their oral health in the process. Crowded or severely crooked teeth are more difficult to clean, which can lead to cavities. Thankfully, an orthodontist can help patients straighten their teeth in various ways through braces and clear aligner trays.

A guide to the different teeth straightening options

There are various factors for patients to consider when looking into which teeth straightening option is best for their needs. For example, while teen and adult patients prefer clear aligners, younger patients who may have trouble keeping track of their aligners, may not be good candidates. Along with that, some patients may prefer braces to avoid the extra steps needed to care for their clear aligners.

Here are a few things to consider when looking at teeth straightening options.

Traditional braces

Traditional braces are one of the most common methods of teeth straightening, consisting of metal wires and brackets. The orthodontist cements a bracket to the front of each tooth and then feeds a wire through each bracket, connecting them. Over time, the connection forces the teeth to shift into the desired position. With traditional braces, patients must visit the orthodontist every few weeks to tighten the wire and make any necessary adjustments. Patients may wear the braces for several months or several years, depending on their needs. With proper care and maintenance, the orthodontist may not need to prolong the treatment.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are a popular teeth straightening option that has become the standard for many people. These aligners are clear plastic trays that fit directly over the teeth on the top or bottom arches. They are flexible in feel and tend to be the most comfortable when it comes to teeth straightening. Clear aligners are custom-created in a dental lab at the start of the teeth straightening process. The dental lab will print the entire series of clear aligners, which allows the orthodontist to provide a new set as the teeth shift.

One thing to know about clear aligners is that not everyone is a good candidate. This teeth straightening method targets individuals with mild to moderate crowding or crooked teeth. However, anything severe or related to bite issues will not respond as well to clear aligners.

Clear braces

Orthodontists also recommend clear braces for teeth straightening treatment. As with traditional braces, clear braces rely on wires and brackets. However, the appearance and material of clear braces are different. Clear braces consist of clear wires and tooth-colored brackets, making the treatment process more discreet than traditional braces. Everything else about the treatment process is similar to traditional braces. Since the brackets are clear, there is a higher chance of food particles being more noticeable when they get stuck in the brackets. Thus, these braces may require more care than other options.

Determining which option is best

When deciding which teeth straightening method is most suitable for the patient, it is important to consider a few factors, such as the level of care needed for treatment, overall treatment time, appearance, and dietary restrictions. For example, children are often more suited to treatment with traditional braces because they are young and are not always as responsible as adult patients. Along with proper care and responsibility, patients should consider the length of time needed for treatment.

In many cases, brace and clear aligners can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months. However, the treatment can take longer if the patient does not follow instructions. While clear aligners provide a more discreet appearance, patients must remember to return them to their mouths after removing them. Otherwise, the treatment may take longer.

Patients who wear braces must avoid certain hard or sticky foods that may damage the brackets. However, clear aligners allow patients to eat whatever they want by removing them during meals. An orthodontist will go over all of this during the consultation and can break down any other relevant factors to consider.

Talk to an orthodontist today

Those looking to undergo teeth straightening should consult with an orthodontist to start the process. The consultation process allows for an examination and evaluation to determine the most suitable option. From there, an orthodontist can customize a treatment plan for the patient's needs. Additionally, the patient can ask questions and discuss any concerns they have. To find out more about teeth straightening, reach out today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.orthodonticprecision.com or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at (703) 391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.

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