Ways to Straighten Teeth

Many people want to straighten crooked or crowded teeth for cosmetic reasons. There are also certain health risks involved with crooked teeth including an increased chance of bacteria and plaque being stuck where tooth brushes have trouble reaching. You can straighten your teeth with orthodontic tools such as braces and plastic aligners.

Metal Braces

• The most traditional method of straightening teeth is the use of metal braces. Braces are attached individually to each tooth and connected by a wire. The braces are then periodically adjusted to straighten teeth. Braces are often used during adolescence but can also be used during adulthood.

Removable Aligners

• Many adults who want to straighten their teeth use removable aligners such as Invisalign that can be placed in and taken out of the mouth manually. These aligners are generally worn 22 to 23 hours daily, removed only when eating and brushing. The aligners are worn for two weeks at a time.

Advantages and Disadvantages

• The advantages of removable aligners are that you are not limited to what foods you can eat and you do not have to worry about your appearance. The disadvantage is that aligners may not be able to treat severe cases of crooked teeth. The advantage of braces is that they can correct most moderate to severe cases of crooked teeth. The disadvantages include some irritation from having metal in your mouth and the inability to eat certain foods during treatment.

Risks of Malocclusion

• Crowded teeth, crooked teeth or an improper bite can cause difficulty chewing food. It can also complicate exercising proper dental hygiene and increase your risk of gingivitis, tooth decay and cavities. Your jaws, muscles and teeth can be over-strained, increasing your risk of breaking a tooth.