alternatives to braces Archives

I’m trying to choose between finding an Invisalign dentist or one who does lingual braces. I’m 43 now and had braces when I was in my 20s, so my teeth aren’t too bad, but I’d like to correct the little bits that have shifted and make them even again. At the same time, I don’t want to have braces that are obvious. I’m a business professional and I don’t want to look like a teenager with a face full of metal. With the research I have done, it seems like both Invisalign and lingual braces are an option for someone with teeth like mine. Is there a benefit to using one type of orthodontics over the other?

Thanks,

Marjorie in Washington, DC

Dear Marjorie,

Based on your description, you probably are a candidate for both. People tend to turn to lingual braces when they worry that they’ll forget to change their aligners or that they’ll lose them. Lingual braces can sometimes tackle cases that Invisalign can’t, but the aligners do a very good job, even on challenging cases.

A lot of adults have trouble with lingual braces because their tongue is drawn to them. They have difficulty speaking and it can be uncomfortable. Being a professional, where it sounds like you may have to attend meetings, speak publicly and such, you can remove the aligners entirely beforehand if you prefer. You can also remove the aligners for cleaning, which is a huge benefit for oral hygiene. Some people have a lot of trouble brushing and flossing with braces, which inevitably leads to gingivitis, advanced gum disease, or decay. Some doctors also cite damage to enamel as a problem with traditional braces. The main reason this becomes a problem is when hygiene isn’t kept up.

If you really are a candidate for both options, you’ll probably prefer the versatility and speed of Invisalign, though you likely won’t have to do any kind of orthodontic treatment for long because you’ve already had it and are refining what’s already been done. Everyone’s mouth and challenges in treatment are different, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach with orthodontics. Start with a consultation and verify what your options are and be sure to mention that you’re open to suggestions depending on what your ultimate goals are. When deciding between these two options, though, you’ll likely be happier going through Invisalign treatment.

I have been living with this annoying gap in my teeth my whole life. No that I’m an adult, I’d like to have it fixed. When the dentist told me I needed braces, my heart sank. A 40 year old woman with braces just isn’t what I had in mind. Do I have any other options? I keep envisioning my little brother taunting me and calling me brace face and metal mouth. Please tell me there is hope.

– Sandra in California

Well, there is good news. You don’t necessarily need have a mouth full of metal. There are other options. The next step would be to set up a consultation with an excellent cosmetic dentist. This type of dentist cares about the aesthetics just as much as the function of your smile. A cosmetic dentist is passionate about creating beauty.

Although, it is important to note that each case is different. So, it all depends on how severe the gap in your front teeth is and how they are positioned.

Assuming it isn’t too bad, here are some other options you may be a candidate for:

Porcelain veneers are a viable option if the gap is relatively small. It will give the illusion of straight teeth, without having to endure the inconvenience of orthodontics. This cosmetic dentistry treatment requires a high sill level to deliver beautiful, natural-looking results. So be sure you research the cosmetic dentist’s credentials and ask to see cases similar to yours. Porcelain veneers require a tiny portion of the natural tooth to be removed to allow for a seamless fit.
Dental bonding is another option. This treatment involves bonding composite directly to the tooth. It will require that the tooth bonding be redone regularly to keep it looking beautiful. Although, it may not be the best fit if the gap is quite large. Yet, it is worth a discussion with your cosmetic dentist.
Invisalign is another alternative to traditional braces. It uses sophisticated computer technology to create clear plastic aligners that gradually re-position teeth to the correct positions. Patients love Invisalign.

Hopefully this gives you some hope that you do have options beyond metal braces. Just be sure to select a cosmetic dentist with extensive training and credentials and that you feel you can trust.

Thank you for your question.

Are Lingual Braces or Invisalign Better for Adults?

Are there any other options to fix the gap in my teeth?