What Are Some Alternatives to Braces?

Traditional metal braces have helped countless patients over the years, but some people find them to be unsightly. That is why our team offers a wide variety of alternative treatments for issues such as crooked teeth and gaps between the teeth. Some of our treatments can be finished in a single appointment, and you are going to enjoy your new smile for years with the proper aftercare. Here is a closer look at a few procedures and devices that could restore the form and function of your smile.

Treating Malocclusion

Some patients never even consider their restorative treatment options because they believe that a crooked smile is nothing more than a cosmetic problem. When left untreated, malocclusion will drastically increase a patient’s risk of countless oral health complications including chipped teeth, tooth infections, and periodontal disease. Over time, your malocclusion is only going to get worse, and there may come a point when your damaged teeth need to be extracted entirely. Straightening your smile will boost your confidence and help you avoid some of those health problems.

Veneers

A veneer is nothing more than a thin strip of porcelain that is attached to the front of a tooth. These devices have become quite popular in the last few decades because they can be used to treat a long list of imperfections and blemishes. After our team cleans your teeth and preps the enamel, the veneers will be attached with a powerful bonding agent. Once the veneers are in the correct position, they are going to look and feel just like natural teeth. Veneers are generally a good option for minor malocclusion.

Aligning Trays

A fairly large percentage of patients are now choosing invisible aligning trays over traditional metal braces. Instead of attaching posts and wires to the front of your teeth, you will wear a set of clear plastic trays. Much like braces, those trays apply a little bit of pressure to each tooth in order to realign them. Whenever you would like to eat or clean your teeth, you can simply take the trays out and put them in a protective case. As long as you keep your trays clean, they will be nearly invisible while in your mouth.

Implants and Dentures

For severe malocclusion, we might suggest removing some of the adult teeth. Trays and veneers are both excellent treatment options, but they can’t fix everything. Once a tooth is permanently damaged, it is almost always easier to remove it entirely. After removing one or more natural teeth, we can fully restore a smile with dental implants or dentures, depending on the situation.

Contact Us Today

If you’re considering braces, you may want to think again. Schedule a consultation at Implant and Comprehensive Dentistry, with locations in Winter Haven and Champions Gate, to learn more about your options. Contact us today to book your appointment!