Disadvantages of metal braces

For a long time, braces have been the go-to method for straightening misaligned teeth. Traditional braces use tension and control to gently reposition and correct common issues like crowding, tooth gaps, and an over/underbite. Most patients will wear braces anywhere from 18-24 months, in the most difficult-to-treat cases they may be worn for three or more years. Braces are incredibly effective and require no recovery time after application or removal. As such, they're a wonderful —and with the proper aftercare, permanent solution to misaligned teeth and jaws. The problem is that braces are bulky, expensive, require regular lengthy visits to the dentist, come with dietary restrictions, and can cause quite a bit of discomfort both physically and emotionally, leaving many to wonder… what are the alternatives to braces?

In the age of DIY, you can probably find many "teeth straightening hacks" online. Unfortunately, almost all of these are not only ineffective but also incredibly dangerous, potentially leading to permanent and costly damage. So, how can you achieve the straight smile of your dreams without braces?

Straightening your teeth without braces

Veneers, Crowns, and Dental Bonding

Veneers are a cosmetic treatment consisting of thin shells bonded to the front surface of the original teeth to improve appearance. Crowns are similar but rather than adhering to the front surface, they are placed over the entire tooth. If you're looking for a more cost-effective alternative to braces, veneers and crowns may not be the best choice. However, they are a great way to not only fix the appearance of misaligned teeth but also to achieve a desired shape and color. There are a variety of options when choosing veneers. We explored all about the process, materials, costs, and duration here. Dental bonding is a similar process where a resin is shaped over the tooth to fill minor gaps, change the appearance of misaligned teeth, and fix chips or cracks but does not require the dentist to make any permanent changes to your original teeth. Dental bonding is faster and cheaper than veneers but typically does not last as long and will require touch-ups every few years.

Palatal Expanders

Palatal expanders are oral devices placed on the roof of the mouth and attached to the inner surface of the teeth to gradually widen a narrow upper jaw, giving the mouth more space for crowded teeth. Since they are placed inside the mouth and attached to the teeth towards the rear of the mouth, they are virtually invisible. Expanders are a great option for younger patients who are still growing as the bones and teeth are easier to manipulate. However, they are known to be quite uncomfortable and many users report that they interfere with speaking and eating.

Clear Aligners

Our favorite option for straightening teeth without braces is clear aligners. Clear aligners are thin, transparent, plastic trays worn over the top, bottom, or both rows of teeth to gradually straighten teeth. They are typically worn 22 hours a day and changed out every 1-2 weeks for the next tray in the series, progressively bringing your teeth to alignment a fraction of a millimeter at a time. The cost is comparable to that of metal braces, but many opt for clear aligners because they are virtually invisible, making them a more aesthetic choice. They are also fully removable so activities like eating and brushing face little interference. Plus, since they lay flush with the teeth they are much more comfortable in comparison to metal braces. They are best for mild to moderate orthodontic issues and can help you achieve your dream smile in as little as 6 months.

Weighing the Options

When deciding which orthodontic treatment is best for you, there are considerations to be made. Your age, oral health history, budget, and the severity of your condition are just a few of the factors that influence which treatment option is the best fit. snapsmile can connect you to a top-rated dentist who can help you evaluate your options and build you a treatment plan guaranteed to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Book a free consultation and get started today!