Around 3.5 million children and teenagers get braces each year, according to the Orthodontics Association. Braces are one of the most common ways of straightening your teeth. 
It can correct dental problems such as crooked, crowded, or non-aligned teeth. And you can get a spectacular smile and lifelong confidence with a simple orthodontic treatment. However, teens and even adults sometimes don’t feel comfortable wearing braces.
With the evolving times and advancements in medical procedures, various other options are now available to align your crooked teeth; and you don’t have to worry about wearing braces anymore.
Dental solutions other than braces
Most people, especially teens, dislike wearing braces because it is associated with the “nerd culture,” so they want to go for other means of correcting the misaligned teeth. The overall image among peers is one of the most important things for teens; sometimes, wearing braces and not feeling good about themselves can seriously harm their sense of self-worth and self-esteem. Parents must realize that kids don’t like the appearance of their teeth restricted by metal.
Working adults who meet several people throughout the day, dealing with customers and clients, also don’t prefer wearing braces as it might not have a good impression on others. They also need the right alternative to braces for themselves. Lucky for you, this article states the substitute for braces. So, read these words carefully to find a dental health solution suitable for your kid! But don’t forget to consult both your orthodontist and oral surgeon before seriously considering these solutions:
- Clear aligners:-
Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces and can be used by people of all ages. They are durable, affordable, and transparent – costing $6,000 on average. These aligners are custom-made for each person. They apply pressure on your teeth to straighten them and provide better dental hygiene than braces. Look up clear aligner orthodontics in your area and choose an expert from the suggested ones based on their patient reviews. Discuss the pros and cons of the procedure with your orthodontist because the aligners have to be worn 22 hours daily to get straighter teeth. Agree to the treatment only when you are sure to oblige to the process.
- Retainers:-
Usually, retainers are worn after braces have been removed. But if you don’t have severe dental issues or require minimal correction, your orthodontist may refer retainers. This option can be an excellent alternative to your traditional braces. Consult the orthodontist about your issues and your requirements. He will guide you on how long you need to wear the retainers or if you need any other procedures.
- Incognito braces:-
If braces are necessary, then you can try the hidden ones! Ask your orthodontist about them with the name “lingual braces.” These hidden or “incognito” braces are custom-made for your jaw and positioned on the back side, or the “lingual” (tongue) side, of your teeth. That’s how they become invisible, but they are expensive. They can cost as much as $10,000 so consider this option if you can afford it.
- Dental veneers:-
Dental veneers have found popularity in dental cosmetics recently. These shells envelop your teeth and conceal cracks in them. Porcelain veneers permanently bond with your teeth and can last up to 10-12 years. These strong shells are resistant to staining and can serve as great alternatives to braces. You should, however, not forget that the veneers are permanent. This process replaces your enamel and you’ll have to get them replaced after a decade. So, consult your orthodontist and discuss the pros and cons of the procedure before agreeing to it.
- Palatal expanders:-
This procedure is most common for kids. The problem of “buck teeth” happens when a child’s mouth isn’t big enough to allow the growth of adult teeth. It means that the child’s jaw is narrow. Palatal expanders help widen the jaw enough to accommodate adult teeth. This device rests on the child’s upper jaw and may take a few days to adjust. With a wider upper jaw, adult teeth can grow healthily without crookedness. These dental expanders can prove to be better alternatives to braces.
- Orthognathic surgery:-
There’s another braces-excluded method to treat non-aligning teeth called orthognathic surgery. This procedure helps people whose upper jaw and lower jaw don’t align. Some experts claim this surgical procedure is the only safe way to treat dental health issues. However, jaw surgery can sometimes be too expensive for insurance to afford. So, you should undergo this process after considering your finances and consulting with a dentist.
Conclusion
Everyone – adults and teens alike – sometimes require corrective mechanisms to rectify problems with their teeth. However, many teens prefer alternative dental treatments to braces. They demand teeth-straightening methods that don’t involve wearing visible metal braces.
These alternative techniques include retainers, dental veneers, hidden braces or surgery. Moreover, clear aligners being the popular choice, help straighten the teeth without metal restraints. Some people may require palatal expanders to help with their dental problems. On the other hand, orthognathic surgery becomes the best option for some folks depending on their dental issues.
Related Posts:
- Teen Braces 101: A Look At The Different Types
- Questions You Should Ask Your Orthodontist
- 7 Things Every Mom Should Know Before Getting Her Child Braces
- Types of Adult Orthodontist Treatments You’ll Get at the Best Clinics
- 7 Tips for Getting a Smile That You Can Smile About
