I have front teeth with a gap between them. My dentist wants me to do braces, but I’m way too old for that. When I told him I wasn’t crazy about braces, he suggested porcelain veneers. I just want to make sure that’s my best options. I also read about these bands that can straighten your teeth without braces. They’re essentially just rubber bands, but they have good reviews and I wouldn’t have to wear metal on my teeth. I could just do the ortho-bands at night.
Lucy M. – South Carolina
Lucy,
First, before we get into solutions, I want to warn you about those so called “orthodpedic bands”. These may appear to close the gap on your teeth, but in reality they’re shifting and tipping your teeth without the support needed to sustain them. You can lose your front teeth.
You have lots of options, so I’m sure you’ll find one that works with what you have in mind.
Let’s start with the second alternative he gave you, porcelain veneers. These are wonderful if you want a smile makeover. For instance, they can change the shape, size, and color of your teeth. They’re also great at closing gaps, depending on the size of the gap, but they’re a high end treatment and you didn’t mention your budget.
Another options is Invisalign. This will straighten your teeth without anyone even knowing. No metal. No wires. No cuts and pains from metal and wires. You wear aligners, for two weeks at a time. They’re clear, so no one can tell you’re wearing them. They also work in about half the time as traditional braces.
A third option is to have dental bonding done to close the gap. This done with a composite resin. Again, it depends on the size of the gap as to weather or not this is a good solution.
Your dentist should be giving you all your options. I’m sorry he hasn’t. Feel free to ask any follow up questions.
This blog is brought to you Grosse Pointe Woods Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Theodore Hadgis.