Which Teeth Straightening Method is the Best?

Braces have been the go-to solution for teeth straightening for many years and were often almost synonymous with the awkward teenage years. In fact, it was believed that braces were only for teenagers, a misconception that has since been cleared. 

With advancements in dentistry, there have been remarkable developments in teeth straightening solutions in recent years. Gone are the days of wearing conspicuous metal braces and wires on your teeth to get that straighter smile. You can now transform your smile with discreet and virtually invisible solutions such as clear aligners and Invisalign. 

With a range of options, from metal braces to clear aligners, you now have the ability to choose the best teeth straightening method that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.  

What are the Types of Teeth Straightening Options? 

Braces

Also known as conventional braces, they are a tried and tested teeth straightening method. Braces consist of metal brackets that are bonded/cemented to your teeth and held together by a wire that is periodically adjusted to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. 

While metal braces are highly effective, they may not be everybody’s cup of tea because of their conspicuous appearance. Moreover, wearing braces also comes with certain dietary restrictions, as chewy, crunchy and sticky food items can potentially damage the brackets and wires, causing discomfort. 

Regardless of that, metal braces still remain an excellent option for treating complex cases of misalignment for patients of all ages. 

We also offer Damon System Braces, a less noticeable alternative to metal braces. They have smaller brackets that are less noticeable and more comfortable. If you opt for this type, you also have the choice of selecting between metal and clear brackets to best suit your aesthetic preferences and needs. 

Clear Aligners 

Clear aligners include treatment options such as Invisalign® and ClearCorrect, which offer a discreet and removable solution for teeth straightening. This teeth straightening method involves a series of clear aligner trays designed to gently shift your misaligned teeth into the desired position. All you need to do is to wear these aligners for 22 hours daily for about 2 weeks before moving on to the next set. 

One of the best features of clear aligners is that they are removable. This allows you to maintain better oral hygiene and also enjoy meals without dietary restrictions. Simply remove them when eating or brushing your teeth, and then pop them back into your mouth. 

While clear aligners may not be suitable for severe cases of misalignment, they can effectively treat mild to moderate issues with your teeth or bite. If you are looking for a discreet orthodontic solution, clear aligners are an ideal solution for you!

STb Social 6 (Lingual Braces) 

Lingual braces are yet another discreet teeth straightening method. Also known as inside braces, braces are placed on the inner surface of your teeth, unlike metal braces attached to the front of your teeth. So, lingual braces are ideal if aesthetics concern you while undergoing treatment. 

However, since these braces are located near the tongue, you may need some time to get used to them. They may also impact your chewing and speaking abilities more than traditional braces. At the same time, you will also have some dietary restrictions, as hard and chewy food has the potential to bend or break the wire. 

Why Should I Consider Teeth Straightening?  

The benefits of teeth straightening go beyond mere aesthetic improvements and concerns. Teeth straightening also addresses a number of dental issues that could impact your oral health and well-being. 

Here are some of the main reasons to consider teeth straightening: 

• Treats a range of dental problems such as crooked teeth, misaligned jaws, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, and problems with your bite (underbite, crossbite and overbite). 
• Improves the functionality of your mouth, enhancing your ability to chew food more effectively and addressing speech difficulties caused by misaligned teeth or an incorrect bite. 
• A straighter smile boosts confidence by enhancing your facial appearance. 
• You can straighten your teeth without compromising your appearance or lifestyle.
• Straighter teeth are easier to clean because they don’t have gaps, grooves or fissures that can be found in overlapped or gapped teeth, reducing the risk of plaque buildup.
• Orthodontic treatments are customised to your needs, ensuring effective dental care and comfort. 

Ultimately, there is no single teeth straightening solution that can be referred to as the best. The best teeth straightening method may vary from person to person based on their needs and preferences. Our dentists at PMD Dental will assess your mouth and provide a personalised treatment plan that’s best suitable for your unique condition.