3 Ways to Get Straighter Teeth Without Having to Get Metal Braces

Straight teeth are desired in almost every culture around the world. The most popular way to achieve straight teeth is by getting metal braces, which have been around for decades. They’re applied to each individual tooth and are held together by wires and elastic bands.

Metal braces are more common among older children and teenagers, but adults sometimes choose them as an effective and inexpensive way to straighten their teeth. However, they are the only effective or affordable option for straighter teeth. Here are three more ways to get straighter teeth.

#1: Other Types of Braces

Braces have come a long way since they were created over a century ago. Metal braces are smaller than they once were, but they’re also not the only type of braces available. Here are three other types of braces that may be more suitable for your needs.

Ceramic Braces

These types of braces work just like metal braces, except that they’re made of tooth-colored material to look like teeth. Because they’re less noticeable, they’re a popular choice among older teens and many adults. However, although they’re more discreet than metal braces, they’re larger and can be more uncomfortable. They can also stain if you consume many stain-causing foods and drinks.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are another type of discreet option, as they’re installed behind the teeth. However, they’re made out of metal, so there may be some discomfort, as well as tongue irritation and speech changes. Lingual braces are also the least common type of braces because they require specialized orthodontic skills to install properly.

Self-Ligating Braces

Self-lighting braces are a popular choice because they’re also more discreet than metal braces, and they’re also more comfortable than the other types of braces listed above. They’re made of either ceramic or clear material and use less wire and no elastic bands to hold them together. They’re also much easier to adjust than metal braces.

#2: Invisible Aligners

Also known as clear aligners, invisible aligners have gained popularity over the last two decades, and they’re now the most discreet way to straighten teeth. They’re perfect for weddings, graduation, and other special occasions. Other than being virtually invisible, clear aligners also come with the following benefits:

• Brushing and flossing are much easier
• Easy to remove for brushing and flossing
• Less frequent and short dentist appointments
• Much more comfortable than other types of braces

Patients still have to visit the dentist every few weeks for a new aligner, but this is a fairly quick process. However, it’s important to remember that not everyone is a good candidate for invisible aligners. Crooked teeth and other severe misalignments can’t be corrected with this type of teeth straightening system.

#3: Veneers and Lumineers

Veneers are tooth-shaped pieces made out of porcelain that dentists permanently attach to a natural tooth that is broken, chipped, or discolored. Lumineers are a type of veneer that are thinner, easier, and quicker to apply, and also cheaper than traditional veneers. They’re also reversible— veneers are completely permanent— but they don’t provide as much coverage or last as long as traditional veneers. Lumineers start at $800 per tooth and can go up to $2,000 per tooth, while veneers begin at $925 per tooth and can go up to $2,500 per tooth.

A much more affordable option is a set of snap-on veneers. These inexpensive veneers look and feel just as natural as regular tee;h, you can speak, eat, and normally drink while wearing them; and a full set is less than $1,000. Because they snap on, they’re removable, and you don’t have to visit a dentist to have them installed like you would with traditional veneers or lumineers. They’re perfect if you feel like you’ve waited too long to correct your teeth and you want a chance at having a dazzling smile.

It’s important to note that metal braces aren’t all bad— in fact, more people are better candidates for metal braces than they are for other straightening methods, and there’s also no age limit for this type. Snap-on veneers also work for most people because all you have to do is make a dental impression (by ordering an impression kit) to get your perfect fit. However, for a more permanent solution, you’ll need to consult with an orthodontist to determine whether metal, ceramic, lingual, self-ligating, or invisible aligners are the best method for straightening your teeth.

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Jay Stallings

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