How to Straighten Your Front Teeth (And Why You Really Should)

If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, you’re not alone. Every year more than 9 million people undergo orthodontic treatment.

Misaligned front teeth don’t just knock confidence they can affect an individual’s oral and mental health and influence how others may perceive them. A comprehensive study undertaken in 2017 revealed the positive effect of orthodontic treatment on mental health and body image.

But before discussing how to straighten front teeth, here are more compelling reasons to commit to orthodontic treatment.

1. Lowers the risk of gum disease - A straight smile promotes healthier gums and lowers the risk of periodontal disease. Properly aligned teeth lead to reduced redness, inflammation, and bleeding in the gums, as they fit more snugly into the gum line.
2. Easier to brush and floss- It’s easier to clean straight teeth, thereby minimizing the buildup of bacteria and plaque that can cause gum irritation and swelling in crowded teeth.
3. Straight teeth experience less wear and tear - Misaligned teeth disrupt normal function, leading to uneven stress and an increased risk of enamel loss, fractures, and trauma.
4. More resistance to damage - Teeth are less prone to injuries when they are straight. Teeth positioned properly are less likely to chip or fracture during accidents compared to teeth that protrude.
5. Fewer headaches - Straight smiles contribute to reduced headaches and neck pain. Crooked teeth exert extra pressure on gums and bones, affecting chewing muscles connected to the face, neck, and head, often resulting in discomfort and, in some cases, Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD).
6. Boosts confidence - A great-looking smile boosts self-esteem and happiness. Confidence in your smile leads to increased smiling and a better self-image, triggering the release of endorphins that enhance mood and motivation.
7. Improved medical health - Straight smiles also improve overall health. Reduced oral bacteria, decay, and inflammation associated with straight teeth contribute to better cardiovascular health and can positively impact conditions like diabetes.
8. Improved socialisation - Straight smiles attract positive attention. Confidence in your smile radiates positive energy, attracting others who respond to your self-assured demeanor with their own positivity and confidence.

So now you know all the reasons to go ahead and straighten your front teeth, what options are available to you?

Teeth straightening options

If you're aiming for straighter teeth, braces are a must-have. Fortunately, there's a variety of options available to fit your budget and preferences.

Conventional braces

Often referred to as 'train-tracks', conventional braces consist of brackets and wires attached to the teeth, secured by rubber bands.

Throughout treatment, your orthodontist or dentist will periodically adjust the braces' tension to gradually straighten your teeth. Despite their effectiveness, traditional metal braces can be uncomfortable due to friction between the wires and brackets, and many people dislike having a mouth full of metal.

Damon braces

Similar to traditional braces, Damon braces aim to reduce friction between the wire and brace, enhancing wearer comfort. They achieve this through a slide mechanism instead of traditional rubber bands. Additionally, Damon braces offer a more discreet appearance and are shown to be more hygienic, with less susceptibility to plaque and bacteria buildup compared to traditional braces.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces may be for you if discretion is at the top of your list. Unlike traditional braces, the metal wires and brackets are bonded to the back of the teeth, providing a discreet option for straightening. They are particularly effective for straightening front teeth, as they remain hidden while smiling.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners provide an appealing alternative for individuals seeking a straighter smile without traditional metal braces. These aligners gradually shift teeth over several months, resulting in a perfectly straight smile. Comfortable and discreet, they're a popular choice for both adults and children.

Typically, clear aligners are removed only during meals, with trays changed every 2-3 weeks as teeth align.

Surgery

In certain cases, an oral surgeon may be able to straighten your teeth through orthognathic surgery, which involves adjusting the position of your jaw to align your teeth. However, this type of surgery is typically costly and only recommended by dentists if your teeth and jaw significantly affect your daily life.

Cosmetic dentistry

Some individuals may opt for cosmetic treatments like veneers or dental bonding. While these procedures improve the appearance of your teeth, they do not address underlying oral health issues. Veneers and dental bonding are often used for chipped teeth, gaps, or misalignment.

The best options for straightening one or two crooked teeth

For many individuals, the idea of undergoing extensive orthodontic treatment to address a single crooked tooth may seem excessive.

As a more discreet alternative, many opt for clear aligners like Invisalign or ClearCorrect, worn over several weeks or months. These aligners offer a subtle way to straighten teeth and provide the convenience of being removable.

So, there you have it! Those are the various methods available to straighten front teeth

Teeth straightening the modern way

Why not consult our experienced dentist at Chesterfield Dentistry to discover how you can achieve a straighter smile tailored to you? Embracing modern technology opens up treatment options like Invisalign and ClearCorrect offering a straightforward and relatively quick path to straightening your smile. Utilizing cutting-edge innovation, these treatments employ a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gently and effectively guide your teeth into a healthy and esthetically pleasing alignment.

Why not schedule a consultation and discover which treatment option is best for you? Call Chesterfield Dentistry at 314 936 3621 or use our online booking system.