A smile is often considered a person’s best attribute, but when a person’s teeth aren’t perfect, it can keep them from sharing their smile with the world. Did you know that 18% of people hide their teeth when pictures are being taken? Crooked or uneven teeth can often make a person feel self conscious about their mouth. Fortunately, there are many techniques used by cosmetic dentists today to straighten teeth that are misaligned. What are some of the best cosmetic dentistry methods for fixing crooked teeth?
- Fixed Braces – One of the most common fixes for crooked teeth are fixed braces. This traditional method involves fixing metal brackets to the front of teeth to which a curved metal wire is attached. Over time, the brackets and wires are tightened, slowly guiding teeth into alignment. The amount of time a patient needs braces depends on how much the teeth must be adjusted. The average cost for braces is between $5,000 and $6,000.
- Invisalign – Finding a dentist that offers Invisalign as a means for straightening teeth is much easier now, as more cosmetic dentists have started to offer the service. Many people seek this method of teeth straightening because it does not require the obvious metal brackets and wires that traditional braces do. Instead, a series of clear trays are used to shape your smile. The trays are changed every two weeks, with each subsequent tray bringing you closer to your desired results. Invisalign costs anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000.
- Porcelain Veneers – Although they don’t actually change the shape of your teeth, porcelain veneers can give you a straight, perfect smile. Porcelain veneers are actually a covering placed on the front surface of teeth and are an option as long as teeth aren’t severely crooked. Aside from giving you straight teeth, veneers can also correct misshapen and discolored teeth. Cosmetic dentistry veneers cost between $800 and $2,000 per tooth.
These are some of the best cosmetic dentistry teeth straightening techniques available today, and each treatment offers a unique method for reaching the desired results. If your teeth are not straight and you want to do something about it, consider one the above treatments. See this reference for more.