There’s a lot more to a smile that meets the eye. Not only does a smile contribute to your aesthetic appeal, it also impacts or influences a whole lot of other things. Like what you choose to eat or don’t, how comfortable you feel when getting social, how confident you are in meetings, and in general, how good or wholesome you feel about yourself. This is where having your teeth in perfect alignment or order can help make a big difference. If you have a problem concerning your teeth alignment and would like to experience the benefits of teeth straightening, here’s an article about three effective dental procedures that we believe will help you get started in the right direction.

Procedure 1: Braces

Dental braces are one of the most popular ways to straighten teeth in the case of children and grown-ups alike. A brace is basically a device that when placed strategically, applies just the right pressure on teeth that are crooked, crowded or misaligned and moves them into the position where they’re ideally meant to be. A lot of people have misconceptions about braces that they’re metallic, cumbersome to eat with and unpleasant in appearance.

While this was the case earlier, advanced developments like ceramic and lingual braces eliminate many of the issues that have long been associated with metal braces. Ceramic braces offer the option of tooth-colored material that makes them far less noticeable and lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth which makes them harder to see.

Problems with braces are that they are uncomfortable, most people don’t like the way that they look and they make it very difficult to keep the teeth and gums clean. This can lead to cavities or discoloration of the teeth and periodontal disease.

Procedure 2: Invisalign

If you have an issue with the noticeability or inflexibility of braces, you can consider aligners. Unlike braces, these are clear and therefore not visible on your teeth. Another significant benefit is, an aligner can be removed when you want to bite into a meal and then slipped back on with the greatest of ease. Invisalign clear aligners are a great option for anyone who desires to straighten their teeth for better oral health and an improved smile, without the hassle of wires or brackets.

Besides being virtually invisible, Invisalign aligners are also gentler meaning, they won’t end up hurting your mouth or staining your teeth over an extended period of use. The process of customizing these aligners involves extensive measurements and 3D modeling, which ensures nothing less than the perfect fit for every patient choosing to straighten their teeth with Invisalign technology.

Procedure 3: Surgery

Surgery becomes a choice in situations where the answer to straightening teeth lies beyond the scope of conventional techniques like braces and aligners. This procedure is recommended in cases where the problem lies not in the teeth but the jaw. The surgical process could involve repositioning or removing a part of the jawbone or even realigning the mandible – the lower part of the jaw which is the only movable part of the skull, in order to correct skeletal deformities that are the real cause behind misaligned or crooked teeth. Teeth straightening surgery can help provide various significant benefits apart from an improved cosmetic appearance.

• Easier biting and chewing
• Correction of overbite or underbite
• Easier swallowing and talking
• Improved facial shape
• Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea

Straightening teeth can be one of the best decisions you take and at Dillon Family Dentistry, we strive to provide the best dentistry using the most minimally invasive and conservative techniques enabled by modern dentistry. Our experience starts with a no-pressure ethical presentation and personalized discussion of all treatment options in an environment that’s designed to keep you feeling comfortable, relaxed and confident all through your session with us. Whether you’re looking for a qualified and compassionate dental expert or local dentist office for teeth straightening or even teeth whitening services or painless dental care, drop by our dental office at Bryn Mawr or simply call 610 525 5497 to schedule an appointment that will not only change your smile but your life.