How to Straighten Your Teeth
As an adult or a teen, you may find yourself looking in the mirror wondering how to make your teeth that little bit straighter. According to Dentists, not everyone has the benefit of naturally straight teeth, so it might be time to see your dentist to find out the various options available. You may be surprised to know that braces, while on the list, aren’t your only option of dental care.
Retainers
If overcrowding in your mouth is causing your teeth to be crooked, then your dentist may recommend retainers. Retainers not only help to straighten your teeth, but they can stop them from shifting while repairing your bite at the same time. To fit retainers in place, a dentist uses dental cement which holds them in your mouth. It’s a comfortable, long-term solution that can often be more suitable for overcrowding than braces are.
Palatal Expanders
A dentist will often recommend a palatal expander for children with mouths that will be too small for incoming adult teeth. The expander widens the arch where your upper teeth are, creating additional room and allowing teeth to move into a more natural position. Using dental cement, your dentist will secure the expander to the top molars, creating pressure on the jaw, so new bone grows into place. Palatal expanders are, for the most part, invisible and produce minimal discomfort.
Braces
The most effective way in which to straighten your teeth is with braces. However, braces are no longer as intrusive as they used to be – much to the delight of children and teenagers. Thanks to a brand known as Invisalign, most people won’t even know they’re there. What’s more, appointment times with Invisalign are 50 percent faster.