Dental procedures have evolved immensely over the last decade. New procedures for straightening your teeth have made their way into dental practices, and offer more benefits when compared to traditional braces.

Common alignment issues can create significant dental health problems. The alternatives to traditional braces have given patients more options that are less intensive, more comfortable, and provide exceptional results.

The Need to Correct Teeth Alignment

Many people experience alignment issues of the teeth as they develop in life. This leads to unsightly dental features that can be a source of insecurity, and in some cases, pain.

More importantly, the position of the teeth influences the mechanics of biting, and can contribute to damage to the structure of the teeth, gums and bones.

Traditional solutions have centered on the use of metal brackets and braces. These were unsightly and painful ways to correct the position of the teeth. But new alternatives have been developed using trays, aligners, and other technologies to improve the experience for patients.

These were welcomed by adults who sought corrective dental care, but were hesitant about wearing braces at their age. The alignment alternatives to traditional braces have given them a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable way to achieve long-term alignment solutions.

The Alternatives to Braces

Alternatives such as Invisible braces allow dental professionals to alter the position of the teeth using aligners that are practically undetectable from a comfortable distance. Using clear plastic applications, patients are able to eat without any disruption and with minimal distraction.

Trays are removable and easier to maintain when compared to traditional braces. And their design has resulted in a new level of comfort for cosmetic dentistry treatments.

Using these treatments requires approximately 12–30 months, depending on the individual. A series of aligners are used throughout the process as the patient progresses to gradually move the teeth.

The biggest benefit to patients is the lack of metal used on the teeth, which can often cause pain to the tissues in the mouth.

Following are other benefits of using alternatives to traditional braces:

• Easy maintenance – Aligners are removable, making it easy to brush and floss. Removing them before eating also prevents food from being trapped and causing more issues.
• Comfort – Alignment trays are tailored to fit comfortably on your teeth. There is no irritation to the tissues of the mouth, and soreness is minimal when changing to the next tray in your series.
• Aesthetics – Alignment trays are hardly visible to those around you. In addition, lingual and ceramic braces are also more aesthetically ideal options to traditional braces.

Teeth alignment alternatives to traditional braces can be used to treat issues such as overbites, cross bites, and gaps between teeth. These alternatives have made it easier for children and adults to correct their teeth easier than ever before.

Using these alternatives will give you the smile you’ve always wanted, with minimal disruption to your daily lifestyle. The results will be long lasting, and sure to keep you smiling.