The Top 3 Ways to Straighten Your Teeth

So everyone wants straight teeth. Who doesn't? But most people - and I don't blame them - don't want to spend 2-3 years in full metal braces as an adult! So what options are there to straighten your teeth? Let's go over them: 

1. Veneers - If you absolutely want the fastest way to straight teeth, then veneers are your answer. Yet, there are two important downsides to consider. The first downside is that you are shaving down possibly perfectly healthy teeth, which can increase risk of root canals and also nothing is stronger than perfectly healthy teeth. The second is that any dental work doesn't last forever so your veneers will need to be replaced down the line.

 2. Comprehensive Orthodontics - You would typically visit an orthodontist where you spend 2-3 years in metal braces to move your teeth as close to the ideal position. In orthodontics, there is a position of how teeth fit together that is considered "ideal." If you are considering braces for your kids, this is the way to go. In adults, this is also a great option if your goal is to get your teeth straight and as "perfect" as possible. The obvious negative is the length of treatment. 

3. 6 Month Smiles Braces - With adults, often times they want straight teeth and see value in braces versus veneers, but don't want to spend 2-3 years as a metal-mouth. This is where limited orthodontics steps in. The general philosophy among dentists with adults is to treat them realistically and kids idealistically. Kids that want braces, go to the orthodontist to have comprehensive braces done. Adults can have their teeth straightened in typically 6 months? In comprehensive orthodontics, teeth are moved into "ideal" positions; this means moving large multi-rooted molars through the jaw. The benefit of 6 Month Smiles braces is that if your bite is alright, and you don't have jaw pain, problems chewing, and so on, your dentist will not focus on movement of your back teeth. All he/she will focus on is the movement of your front teeth into a straighter position. It gives you the look you want in a much shorter time!