Do you have crooked or crowded teeth? What if you don’t want to wear braces – are you stuck with your imperfect smile? NO. There are now alternatives to orthodontics that can give your teeth the appearance of perfect alignment. Without braces.
If your problem is not too severe, one of these may be just right for you:
Cosmetic contouring is a reshaping procedure that works well on crooked, worn or chipped teeth. It is a simple and painless way to improve the appearance that makes them easier to clean. Although it is a popular treatment, it is not right for everyone. Cosmetic contouring may be the best option if you:
- Want a relatively inexpensive and quick treatment
- Have only slightly crooked teeth
- Are an adult
Before choosing cosmetic contouring, your dentist will evaluate your teeth to determine if the procedure is right for you. The thickness of the tooth enamel and the bite function are variables that must be considered.
Bonding is a procedure in which plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape, then trimmed and polished for a natural appearance. The bonding procedure can usually be completed in a single office visit. It can be combined with cosmetic contouring to create proportionally sized teeth to fill in spaces and correct overlapping teeth. Consider bonding if you:
- Have teeth that are chipped or badly stained
- Want a relatively inexpensive and quick treatment
- Are willing to have professional cleanings 3-4 times a year
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic that bond directly to the tooth’s front surface. They are virtually undetectable and are very resistant to stains. Their strength and resemblance to healthy white tooth enamel natural look make than a popular choice for making teeth seem straighter. Veneers are recommended for patients who want to:
- Preserve the natural tooth structure
- Maintain their traditional floss routine
- Have protection from staining
Crowns can produce a dramatic change in crooked and crowded teeth. They may be most appropriate for erupting, damaged or receding teeth. However, their use is limited because the teeth to be crowned must be aligned with the surrounding teeth. Otherwise, the crown will not achieve the appearance of straightening. Crowns are the most expensive alternative to orthodontics.
Your dentist can help you determine the best option for your teeth. If you are looking for an alternative to braces, sometimes a combination of these cosmetic procedures will be recommended. Bottom line? There is a right way to fix YOUR crooked smile!
If you are looking for a way to straighten your teeth without braces, contact Dr. Nishan Halim, cosmetic dentist in DC. He will evaluate your situation and work with you to select the best option for your particular case and circumstances.
Remember, beautiful teeth are healthy teeth!
Dr. Nishan Halim