Are you looking to straighten your teeth?

Straight teeth are one of the essential elements of beauty. Your smile is one of the first things a person notices when they meet you. Smiling is also a psychological trick to make a good first impression.

However, not all people are confident about their smiles. Studies show that more than half of American adults feel insecure about their smiles. If this is your problem, straightening your teeth may be your only solution.

Teeth realignment does not only provide cosmetic benefits. If you're going to the dentist for a teeth straightening procedure, we got you! Here's everything you need to know before going to the orthodontist.

Risks Associated With Crooked Teeth

There's no such thing as perfect teeth. Many children are born with misaligned teeth, and many take it to their adulthood. However, severe cases of crooked teeth could present you with health problems.

Here are some of the effects of having crooked teeth.

Periodontal Disease

Crooked teeth can make it hard for you to observe proper dental hygiene due to the abnormal spacing. This makes your teeth susceptible to developing cavities and gum disease. If left untreated, this could turn into more serious conditions like periodontal disease.

Chewing and Digestion

Severe cases of misaligned teeth can make it difficult to chew well. This can lead to digestion problems.

Excess Wear

Crooked teeth can put a lot of strain on your jaw muscles, teeth, and gums. If left untreated, it could result in cracked teeth. Some people experience strain in their jaw, chronic headaches, and temporomandibular joint disorder.

Self-Esteem and Speech

Having crooked teeth can discourage you from smiling. For many people, their insecurities root from the appearance of their teeth.

You may start avoiding or talking to people to prevent you from showing your teeth. Crooked teeth sometimes affect a person's ability to speak.

Teeth Straightening Options

If you're looking to straighten your teeth, there are a few options you can look at. Braces are one of the most common procedures you can do. Braces are compatible with all ages.

If you've been looking to straighten your child's teeth, braces are a great option. It's effective for children due to its flexible gums and malleable bone tissues.

Depending on the severity of your case, braces can last anywhere between 2-3 years. Here are some options you can consider if you're planning on getting braces.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common procedure if you're planning to get braces. A dentist will attach brackets to your teeth with specialized concrete. They will connect this to flexible wire and bands to correct your teeth.

Many people fear getting braces due to the amount of material. However, braces are much comfortable than they were before. You can even choose your preferred color of brands to make your braces prettier.

Depending on your case, metal braces will cost you from $3,000 to $7,500. Your dentist may prescribe you to wear headgear in addition to your fixed braces. You will only wear these at night.

Ceramic Braces

If you're looking for a more lowkey solution, you may opt for ceramic braces. These braces and flexible wires can be clear or tooth-colored. Compared to metal braces, ceramic braces will stand out less.

However, ceramic brackets are prone to stains. They are also more fragile, make them susceptible to breakage and cracking.

Your braces can cost between $3,500 to $8,00, depending on your demographics and case. If you have insurance coverage, you could get this for a lower price.

Invisible Braces or Invisalign

Straightening your teeth with Invisalign may take longer than the traditional braces. Only adults and teens are candidates for invisible braces. Your dentist will prescribe you custom-fit plastic aligners.

These clear aligners will fit over your teeth, much like a mouthguard. At least once a month, you must visit your dentist to get a new pair. However, this may not be the best option if you need severe tooth alignment correction.

Wondering if you're a viable candidate for Invisalign? Check out this Invisalign dentist to find out more.

Lingual Braces

If you want to hide your braces, you can opt to get lingual braces. This type of braces sits on the other side of your teeth. This means your braces will be facing your tongue.

If you're confident in your dental hygiene, you may be a good candidate for lingual braces. Lingual braces are harder to clean than traditional metal brackets. It can also take a while to get used to these braces, meaning it may take longer to see results.

Aside from braces, you may also take a look at other procedures like surgery.

Surgical Procedures

If you're not willing to wear braces for a long time, you can get your teeth straightened with surgery. This allows you to reposition the gums and bones around your teeth. Depending on your case, your dentist may also recommend jaw alignment surgery.

Straightening your teeth with surgery may be a good option if it affected your speech or chewing. The cost for a surgical procedure will depend on your location and health insurance.

Can I Straighten My Teeth at Home?

Straightening your teeth at home may seem possible with recent technology. However, experts advise against DIY straightening procedures. DIY braces are dangerous and could give you many health complications.

Using rubber bands, paper clips, or glue to straighten your teeth makes you prone to injury. You may even suffer from infection or permanent damage. If you want to straighten your teeth, consult a professional.

To effectively correct your teeth, you need to know your problem teeth and how they need to move. Your dentist will be able to provide you with essential information.

Everything You Need to Know Before Straightening Your Teeth

Looking to get a teeth-straightening procedure? Straightening your teeth could involve various procedures, such as braces or surgery. Here's everything you need to know so you know which method is best for you!

Of course, dental care doesn't end here! Looking for more information on improving your dental health? Check out our other oral health guides today!