Summer’s a big time for photos, but it’s no fun taking a selfie with an imperfect smile — and if you have crooked teeth, you’re probably reluctant to flash your grin at all. Did you know more adults than ever are seeking orthodontic treatment these days? According to the Wall Street Journal, they are. We’ve got a couple of options for orthodontics in Los Alamitos: traditional braces and Invisalign. The one that’s right for you depends on your budget and your personal preference.
Benefits of Straight Teeth
Having a bite that lines up the way it should isn’t just important for the appearance of your smile. Properly aligned teeth also contribute to better oral and overall health. They’re easier to clean, for one, so you can better remove plaque and tartar for healthier teeth and gums. Misaligned teeth can also place a strain on your jaw joint, causing chronic pain and difficulty opening and closing your mouth normally.
Then there’s your self-confidence to consider. Studies actually show that people who have straighter teeth are more likely to be perceived by their peers as friendly and successful. Want a boost at work? Getting braces could arguably be just the thing for you.
Why Choose Traditional Braces
Metal braces have been trusted for decades and are highly predictable for most orthodontic issues. Brackets and wires place focused pressure on different areas of the bite throughout treatment. Conventional braces aren’t discreet by any means, but they offer a more affordable alternative to accelerated or clear braces options (more on that below).
The average treatment time with metal braces is about 18 months. You’ll need to come into our office every four to six weeks so we can make sure everything is progressing as it should.
Traditional braces are a good option for the following cases:
- Correcting more complex orthodontic issues
- People who want to spend less on their orthodontic treatment
- Younger patients who may have difficulty complying with removable hardware
- Patients who do not mind wearing visible hardware throughout treatment
When Invisalign Is the Right Choice
Traditional braces are a great option for many people, but adults who are concerned about covering up their smiles with metal brackets and wires are pleased to know there’s another option available. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to gradually reposition your teeth. It uses the same orthodontic principles of slow movement with focused pressure, and can correct the most common issues — like gapped and crowded teeth as well as over bite, under bite, and cross bite.
Invisalign is a good option in these cases:
- People who are concerned about the aesthetic of their smile during treatment
- Patients whose alignments are not as severe
- Those who wish for a removable braces option
- People with a little more to spend on orthodontic treatment
Questions? Talk to Us Today!
It’s never too late to improve the alignment of your teeth. If you’re dealing with gapped teeth, crowding, or an otherwise misaligned bite, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss braces in Los Alamitos. Request an appointment today!