Teeth straightening is a popular tool for patients who want to improve the look of the smile and increase the ability to keep teeth healthy and clean. Although many patients seek straighter teeth for cosmetic purposes, there are many advantages to correcting crooked teeth or misaligned bites. A general dentist can walk a patient through the process, make suggestions and provide a referral to an orthodontist if necessary.
The process of straightening the teeth depends on the method the dentist uses, although the mechanics are similar. When choosing between products and techniques, there are several factors to take into consideration, such as the condition of the teeth, problems that need to be addressed, budget, desires of the patient and likelihood of compliance.
Teeth can be straightened using one of several techniques. Traditional braces are made of metal or ceramic and consist of brackets temporarily attached to the teeth using special dental cement. A wire, called an archwire, is fed through brackets and usually attached using small elastic bands. The wire causes light, continuous pressure against the teeth, which causes them to shift into a new position. Some braces still use brackets but are self-adjusting, using a sliding mechanism in place of the elastic bands to attach the archwire to the brackets. Another option is called invisible braces or a tray system that uses a series of custom-made clear aligners worn continuously to move the teeth into a new position.
Changes to the bite and alignment of the teeth can be made without harming the teeth if slight, continuous pressure is applied. As the teeth shift, they settle into the new position until a new adjustment is made. The adjustment can be a new tray for a tray system or with a tightening of the braces for traditional systems. Traditional braces also use other devices in conjunction, such as spacers, springs and rubber bands. When the teeth are in the final position, a retainer or final tray is used to maintain the new position.
Although many people decide to get teeth straightening for cosmetic purposes, there are benefits that go beyond the appearance. Misaligned teeth can sometimes cause pain and are often more difficult to reach for a thorough cleaning. Some patients with misaligned teeth have difficulty with properly chewing food or get chronic jaw pain, neck pain or headaches that can potentially be resolved with orthodontia. Straight teeth can also improve confidence and boost the patient's self-esteem, which provides advantages to mental health.
Anyone considering teeth straightening can ask a general dentist about the process, options and benefits to help make an informed decision. A general dentist can also make a referral to an orthodontist for the patient. Both traditional braces and modern tray systems are good options for patients who want to improve the look of the smile or correct misaligned teeth for health purposes.
Request an appointment here: https://carmelsmilesdentist.com or call Smiles in the Village Dentistry at (317) 575-6101 for an appointment in our Carmel office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Porcelain veneers and composite veneers are built to last, but they are not permanent. Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care, and some hold up for 20 years or longer. Composite resin veneers usually need replacement after about 5 to 7 years. If you had veneers placed between 2005 and 2015,…
If your dentist has recommended a crown, one of the first questions you probably have is: what are the different types of dental crowns, and which one is right for me? Dental crowns are custom caps that cover damaged or weakened teeth, restoring both strength and appearance. Whether you are dealing with a cracked molar,…
A cavity between teeth, clinically called interproximal cavities, develops on the contact surfaces where two teeth press together. Unlike cavities on chewing surfaces that you might spot in a mirror, interproximal decay hides out of sight. Toothbrush bristles cannot reach these tight spaces, so plaque and bacteria build up silently for months before anyone notices.Most…
If you live in Carmel or Hamilton County and want both a brighter and straighter smile, you're not alone. At Smiles in the Village Dentistry, patients regularly ask whether they should tackle teeth whitening or teeth straightening first. The answer depends on your starting point.Here's a practical rule of thumb: if you have moderate to…
Porcelain veneers and composite veneers are built to last, but they are not permanent. Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care, and some hold up for 20 years or longer. Composite resin veneers usually need replacement after about 5 to 7 years. If you had veneers placed between 2005 and 2015,…
If your dentist has recommended a crown, one of the first questions you probably have is: what are the different types of dental crowns, and which one is right for me? Dental crowns are custom caps that cover damaged or weakened teeth, restoring both strength and appearance. Whether you are dealing with a cracked molar,…