Health and Fitness

Are There Any Proven Alternatives to Braces?

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Dental braces are devices that align and straighten your teeth. They fix gaps, and more importantly, they improve your dental health.

But are there any alternatives to braces? The quick answer: yes, there are.

The following are some proven alternatives to braces that will keep your smile bright and healthy. Check them out!

Clear Braces

Metal braces are out, and clear braces are in.

Clear or ceramic braces are great for those who don’t like the look and feel of metal braces. And because they are clear, they are much less noticeable than metal braces.

Clear braces are popular because:

  • They’re tried and tested
  • They don’t feel as uncomfortable to the mouth as metal braces
  • They don’t stain

Just remember that you still have to change your diet somehow; no crunchy or other hard foods.

Invisalign Treatment

Invisalign treatment is another highly popular alternative to traditional braces. It has many features that correct teeth alignment, bite, and more.

Here are some of its benefits:

  • Not noticeable
  • Can be easily removed
  • No changes in diet
  • Less discomfort
  • Fewer appointments with the dentist

Of course, this treatment may not be the right choice for everyone even if it’s the most popular. Also, they may not be ideal for adults who are always on the go.

Lingual or Incognito Braces

As the term suggests, incognito braces are completely hidden.

They are placed on the backside of the teeth and front of the tongue, hence their other name lingual braces.

Incognito braces are often customized to fit each patient’s needs. However, they are more often designed to fix the “social six” teeth that are visible in front of the mouth.

The downside: they can be quite uncomfortable since your teeth and tongue will have to adjust to the sensation.

Teeth Aligners

Teeth aligners are similar to other types of braces in that they work to shift your teeth into their ideal positions.

However, teeth aligners are different from traditional braces in two ways:

  • They are invisible and often go unnoticed
  • They apply a “push” force to correct teeth positions, whereas braces apply a “pull” force to shift teeth positions

You have to wear a series of teeth aligners, too, with each set lasting usually for two weeks.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Another great alternative to traditional braces is cosmetic dentistry, which includes veneers that have been among 2019’s most common searches in relation to dental care.

This treatment is good for:

  • Chipped teeth
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Large gaps the teeth

The difference between braces and cosmetic dentistry is pretty obvious: one is for more serious teeth problems, while the other is for cosmetic purposes.

Still, both help you achieve a wider, brighter smile.

Which Alternative is Best for You?

Oral disease affects around 3.9 million people worldwide. Choosing which way to solve your oral problems depends on your situation and oral care.

While you search for alternatives to braces, consult with a professional. Your dentist or orthodontist will help you find the correct solutions for your teeth and oral problems.

So, keep that smile bright and keep it healthy.