Having a perfect smile is something that many people aspire to have. Still, it’s not always possible without a cosmetic dentist’s intervention. Some people might be happy with the shape of their teeth, but not so much the color. Therefore, they might consider in-chair teeth whitening as a way to correct that problem.
Other people may find that their bite is not quite right, their teeth are crooked, or that something just doesn’t feel quite right. In that case, some people might be inclined to see their cosmetic dentist and find out if braces, Veneers or Invisalign is an option for them.
Without seeing a dentist, there isn’t a sure-fire way to find out if such treatments are right for you, but there are signs that an appointment should be made with a dental expert to find out.
Your Teeth Look Crowded or Crooked
If you find yourself ashamed or embarrassed to smile because you feel that your teeth are crooked or crowded, then braces might be an option for you. Braces can correct crooked and overcrowded teeth over time, while Invisalign can help with the more minor cases that affect your self-esteem and confidence.
Your Jaw is Noisy or Moves
Do you find that your jaw makes funny noises or moves around more than it should? A trip to a cosmetic dentist for helpful information might be on the cards. Often, a jaw shifting or making sounds is a sign that there’s an issue with your teeth and jawline.
You Bite Your Cheek A Lot
Have you ever noticed that you’re biting the sides of your cheek more than most people do, or that you hit the roof of your mouth a lot? Often, this can mean that your teeth are not correctly aligned and that you have an underbite or overbite. Talk to your dentist about the issues you are facing, and whether braces might be able to solve them.
You Find Chewing Food Challenging
Some people can go through a significant proportion of their life, not realising that chewing food is challenging. It might not even be until a dentist examines your mouth that you find that it is a problem. Sometimes, incorrect teeth alignment can cause people to have issues with eating. Invisalign or braces might be able to help.
Traditional Braces or Invisalign?
Traditional braces have been around for a long time, whereas Invisalign only graced the market in 2000. Both options are designed to straighten your teeth and improve your oral health, but both do have some differences.
Traditional braces are metal brackets tied with wire and rubber bands and glued to your teeth. Invisalign are a little more discrete and are removable plastic trays that are worn over your teeth to move them to where they need to be subtly. Unlike traditional braces, they are not a permanent fixture in your mouth.
Invisalign is an excellent option for anyone who desires flexibility. Still, this product doesn’t tend to be suitable for some people with extensive teeth alignment problems. For example, anyone that has a back-bite issue, bridgework, the need to rotate premolars or canines, or anyone who needs to move teeth vertically will require traditional braces.
Every person’s mouth is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. If you believe that Invisalign or braces are something that you could benefit from, then make an appointment with your cosmetic dentist. They can talk you through your options and what will likely be of benefit to your oral health.