Thinking Of Getting Your Teeth Straightened? Here’s What You Need To Know

In today’s fast-paced world, having perfectly aligned and straight teeth is not just essential for health enjoying good health, but also for aesthetic reasons. An American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey showed that people who have attractive smiles – thanks to their perfectly aligned teeth – are considered more approachable, friendly and attractive than those with flawed smiles. 

So, if you are also concerned about your crooked teeth and feel under confident due to them, you might be thinking of the available treatment options and the process involved. But, no need to worry; this blog provides all the information that you need to have before starting your orthodontic treatment. So, continue reading and begin your orthodontic treatment journey with confidence. 

What Are The Best Teeth Straightening Options?

Thanks to contemporary dentistry, several options are available to fix crooked teeth. However, broadly speaking, there are two main types of treatment options: fixed and removable appliances.

The fixed appliances:

  • Traditional metal braces
  • Tooth-coloured ceramic
  • Incognito or lingual braces

On the other hand, the removable appliances include Invisalign clear aligners. 

With a multitude of treatment options available, you may find it challenging finding an option that suits you the best. However, no need to worry; your dentist will help you find a treatment option that best suits your treatment needs. 

What Are The Health Benefits Of Teeth Straightening?

Many people consider teeth straightening as a purely aesthetic requirement. The fact is that getting one’s teeth straightened also offers many health benefits. For example, straight teeth are also for optimal chewing of the foods, enabling the digestive system to digest it properly and extract energy. Hence, straight teeth help ensure optimal physical health. Furthermore, crooked teeth promote plaque deposition, which is a safe haven for harmful bacteria. So, crooked teeth increase the risk of systemic illnesses which are transferred from the diseased teeth and gums to other body organs. 

How Much More Would You Smile If You Had Perfect Teeth?

It is commonly observed that people with crooked or misaligned teeth avoid smiling in public. So, misaligned teeth can have a significant impact on one’s self-confidence. On the other hand, if one gets their teeth straightened, they would want to show their beautiful teeth and attractive smiles. So naturally, if one had perfect teeth, they would smile a lot more than those who have imperfect smiles or crooked teeth. 

Why Do People Decide Not To Have Their Teeth Straightened?

There are two main reasons people decide not to have their teeth straightened. First, many think the only option for straightening teeth is metal braces, which many find unaesthetic and uncomfortable. Secondly, orthodontic treatment can be expensive for many. But there are solutions or every problem. If you are avoiding orthodontic treatment because you don’t want to wear braces, you can get ceramic braces or Invisalign aligners that are virtually invisible. Similarly, if you find orthodontic treatment costly, you may consider going to a dentist who offers flexible treatment plans to cover your treatment. 

What Are The Teeth Straightening Options For Adults?

There are several options available for fixing crooked teeth in adults. Among the fixed appliances, adult orthodontic patients can go for metal braces. Alternatively, if they are looking for aesthetically more attractive options, they may consider ceramic or lingual braces. On the other hand, an adult patient may also consider Invisalign clear aligners for their treatment.  

Is There Any Way To Straighten Teeth In One Day?

The ideal method for straightening misaligned teeth is through orthodontic treatment. However, treating even a mild orthodontic issue may take up to 8 months. Therefore, no one can have their straightened on a single day. However, there are specific cosmetic options that allow you “hide” your cosmetic flaws and get a dazzling smile in just one day. For example, your dentist can give you veneers to mask minor orthodontic issues such as mild crowding or spacing. However, veneers do not solve the problem; they simply hide the flaws. So, one should get their teeth straightened with orthodontic treatment to address the underlying issue appropriately. 

How Long Do Teeth Straightening Treatments Last?

The duration of teeth straightening treatment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the case, patient compliance and, more importantly, the dentist’s experience and skills. However, mild orthodontic problems can typically be treated within 6-8 months, while more complicated issues may take up to 24 months. 

Does Straightening Of Teeth Make Them Weak?

People who undergo orthodontic treatment often observe that their teeth have become mobile and assume they have become weak. But this is not correct. The fact is that teeth tend to become slightly mobile during orthodontic treatment, as they are forced to move within the bone tissue. However, as soon as the braces are removed, the teeth become firmly anchored within the bone tissue once again. So, orthodontic treatment does not make one’s teeth weak. However, if one does not take good care of their oral health during orthodontic treatment, they can get tooth decay and gum disease, making their teeth weak. 

What Is The Right Age To Correct Teeth Alignment?

The ideal age for correcting tooth misalignment is during the teenage, as soon as all the permanent teeth (except wisdom teeth) have come in. Why? Because at a young age, the bones are flexible, and teeth can be aligned more easily. So, orthodontic treatment takes lesser time to complete. 

Are Dental Braces’ Sole Purpose To Straighten Teeth?

Yes, the main aim of dental braces is to straighten and align the teeth. However, this is done not just for cosmetic reasons but also to ensure optimal oral health and physical well-being. 

If you are looking for the best Orthodontic practice in Hornchurch, Harrow Dental Practice is at your service. To find out more about creating your perfect smile, contact us today