For many people when they’re growing up, braces are just a part of life. Generally, it isn’t uncommon to see pre-teens donning the straightening appliances – once the baby teeth have made way for the adult teeth, that’s often when crowding or spacing issues can occur in the mouth, and braces are put in to solve the problem before it worsens or causes long-term damage.
But teeth can change over time. Those who were blessed with naturally perfect teeth growing up can experience some tooth movement as an adult. Surprisingly, that can also be the issue even for those who had braces at a younger age. Whether it’s the teeth moving inwards and crowding each other, or moving toward the opposite way and causing gaps between them, these can cause oral health issues and should be properly fixed.
In these cases, some adults avoid solving their dental problems because they are embarrassed at the thought of wearing metal braces past the common braces-wearing age. If that’s you, there are different options to fix crooked teeth – and there is sure to be one that will suit your specific situation:
Invisalign – A popular option among adults, Invisalign does not use metal brackets or wires and are almost invisible. They are custom-fitted clear plastic aligners that gradually shift teeth into proper place. Though they work much like regular metal braces, their near-invisibility makes them an attractive option for those who do not want to call attention to their teeth during the straightening process. Another bonus – they can be taken off to eat, brush, and floss as needed.
Veneers – For a quicker route to a perfect smile, veneers can be custom shaped, sized, and coloured to your specific needs. They are made of thin layers of ceramic and are bonded directly to your teeth. Veneers are used for gaps, crooked teeth, and even for teeth that are chipped or broken.
Braces – Believe it or not, plenty of adults do still utilize the tried-and-true metal braces to fix their smiles. If Invisalign and veneers do not appeal to you, braces are always a good option, especially as a slightly lower cost method to straighten teeth.
The professionals at Southeast Dental in Markham will help you decide which option would be most effective for your smile and situation. To book your appointment with our team, use our online form or call 905-471-2002.