I grew up without getting to go to the dentist. While my teeth are healthy, my smile is unattractive. I can’t quite afford anything huge like porcelain veneers, but want to do what I can. I have discolored teeth and some big gaps between them. My front teeth stick out a bit because I used to suck my thumb when I was a kid. Are there some options for me? I do not want a mouth full of metal.
Vivian
Dear Vivian,
Invisalign Aligner
There are great options for someone in your situation. I am going to suggest a combination of Invisalign along with teeth whitening. You can even do them simultaneously and save yourself both time and money.
Invisalign is Ageless
Gone are the days when the only way to straighten your teeth is with metal wires and brackets. These days we have Invisalign, which uses clear aligners, such as the one pictured above, to straighten your teeth.
Some people think these are only for teenagers. While Invisalign Teen is quite popular, this was an addition to Invisalign. It’s original purpose was for adults to have a way for them to straighten their teeth in a way that still allowed them to feel comfortable about their smile in a professional environment.
I currently know of a woman in her 80s who is undergoing the Invisalign procedure. Compared to her, you are a young pup.
Invisalign and Teeth Whitening
One hidden benefit of Invisalign is that the aligners that are used to straighten your teeth can simultaneously double as the trays that are used in teeth whitening. This means that your dentist can provide you with the whitening gel without having to also make the custom fitted trays because the aligners can serve in that capacity just fine.
You will simply add the gel to your aligners at a time that is convenient for you. This allows you to simultaneously straighten and whiten your teeth. It’s like getting a mini smile makeover at a franction of the cost of porcelain veneers. The teeth whitening alone will make your smile look years younger.
This blog is brought to you by East Cobb Dentist Dr. Cristi Cheek.