Can You Straighten Teeth Without Braces?

Most of us want our teeth to be as straight as possible. Good tooth alignment helps us to bite and chew more easily and it makes us more confident when we smile. It’s natural to feel less like smiling if your teeth are out of place and crooked.

Many people think of metal braces as being the only option, to straighten teeth. This is not the case. On many occasions less visible braces can be used. There are also times when it’s not necessary to use braces at all, or when other procedures are more effective. When you visit the orthodontist to talk about having your teeth straightened, they will discuss your options with you. Here is some information, to give you an idea of what you can expect to hear.

Using retainers to straighten teeth

Traditional retainers have been used for many years, to help with straightening teeth. They can be used instead of braces or after braces have been used to help retain the position of teeth. In cases where alignment issues are not severe, it may only be necessary to use retainers to solve the problem.

Retainers can be fixed or removable, depending on the needs of the individual. Obviously, removable retainers are more convenient because they can be removed from the mouth when the wearer wants to clean their teeth or eat.

When appliances are needed

There are times when wearing braces is not the best option to resolve an issue with alignment. This often happens when the jaw, as well as the teeth, is not aligned as it should be. For instance, many adolescents have an underbite or an overbite. In these situations, it may be necessary for appliances to be used rather than braces.

These appliances include headgear, which you may have seen some adolescents wearing. This treatment is most commonly used for adolescents and older teenagers as it’s most effective at that time of life. There is not just one form of headgear; adjustments are made to suit the needs of the person who is wearing the appliance. 

Although headgear is effective in helping to resolve jaw alignment issues, it’s not usually popular with those who have to wear it as it is very obvious and has an adverse effect on appearance.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a treatment that is used for less serious teeth alignment issues. The treatment is very popular with adults who have slightly crooked teeth and are aiming for that perfect smile. During Invisalign treatment, clear plastic trays are made which are a perfect fit for the mouth of the person who will be wearing them.

These trays are worn over the teeth, to help them align correctly, The biggest advantage of this type of treatment is that the trays can be removed at any time. This makes it easier for the wearer to clean their teeth and to eat. However, this can be a disadvantage if an individual does not wear the aligners as much as they should. If this happens the treatment may not be successful.

You may need to wear braces

Although there are other options, when it comes to straightening teeth, wearing braces may be the best solution for you. You may have doubts about going down this path, but the results make the journey worthwhile. It’s also worth remembering that wearing metal braces may not be your only option, you may be able to choose ceramic or clear braces, or wear metal braces on the back of your teeth. These options all make teeth straightening less obvious.

You can take a look at the different treatments available at The Neem Tree. As part of the treatment, we will have a consultation with you. During this consultation we will talk to you about which option is the best choice in your situation in order to get the best possible results. You can talk about any worries you may have and ask questions. It may be that a retainer or Invisalign treatment is the best option for you, but if braces are the best solution, we will tell you and talk you through the process.

It’s certainly possible to straighten teeth without using braces, and sometimes it’s necessary to use other appliances. However, there are times when braces are the best option. Make an appointment with The Neem Tree and we will help you to decide which course of treatment is best for you.