People with naturally straight teeth are rare. Most adults that have straight teeth can usually credit childhood orthodontics or cosmetic dentistry. Are teeth that are slightly askew, crooked or spaced are a real problem? For many people the answer is yes that having unslightly teeth can give a poor impression to others and leave them with a negative perception. Teeth straightening procedures have come a long way within the past few decades and are not only suitable for adolescent patients. Many adults are enjoying a perfect smile with some of the most advanced teeth straightening procedures available.
VENEERS
Ultra thin Porcelain veneers can be placed on teeth to close spaces, fix Crowding, Brighten Color, restore Wear and Fractures. Dr Susan McMahon is highly skilled with Porcelain veneers and has improved hundreds of smiles in Pittsburgh and Chicago.
ORTHODONTICS
We have all seen kids on popular sitcom television shows teased for wearing elaborate head gear that resembles an otherworldly device. Fortunately, the orthodontics of today are far less invasive on the wearer’s social life.
It’s a simple process of placing a specific amount of pressure upon the teeth. The orthodontics work with brackets, bonding material, arch wire, and ligature elastics to slowly shape the teeth to the point where they become straight and orderly. We also use clear aligners to simply straighten teeth.
The answer depends on the amount of straightening that needs to occur. In some instances, it may only take a few months. Limited Cosmetic Orthodontics can usually be accomplished in about 6 months.
Orthodontics may be a little uncomfortable or even hurt a little in the beginning while the wearer is getting used having the brackets and wires within the mouth. They may also hurt after being adjusted because tightening causes pressure to increase. The discomfort can be alleviated by oral OTC pain relievers. It is recommended that the wearer eat soft foods at first and avoid eating foods that are sticky in nature or have a hard exterior.
Braces are not the only way to straighten your teeth. New methods such as teeth aligners have made it easier and less invasive to straighten your teeth. Your teeth can be gradually straightened by using a sequence of clear aligners. The procedure is easy and treatment times range from 3 -12 months.
The feeling is barely felt at all because the teeth are slowly guided into place by the progression of the aligners bringing the teeth into alignment. There may be a bit of discomfort when a new aligner is inserted, but it is very short lived. It is the closest thing to pain-free teeth straightening that you are likely to find with the current technology available.
There are times where you may want to take the time to straighten teeth the old-fashioned way that takes a considerable amount of time, but there are faster ways to straighten teeth. Porcelain veneers can be used to straighten crooked teeth and to close spaces as well. The results can be both beautiful and immediate. Porcelain veneers are ultra thin but durable sheets of porcelain that cover the front surface of the tooth. They are very natural looking and can result in an amazing smile. Your smile can be transformed in a few weeks.
If you are concerned about the straightness of your teeth, call us for an consultation. Dr. Mcmahon is the accredited cosmetic dentist office you have been looking for. She will help you decide what treatment is best for you.