It is so important to make a good impression these days. Your career, relationships and daily interactions all play an important role in your personal and professional development opportunities. If you have crooked or misaligned teeth, it can be difficult to feel confident in social situations. Misaligned teeth are also difficult to clean, and harmful plaque and bacteria can get stuck between the teeth. This can lead to frequent cavities and tooth decay. 

Luckily, there are many orthodontic options for patients of all ages who are looking to align their teeth. Let your smile speak for itself with these 3 popular tooth straightening procedures in Los Angeles. 

Braces 

Braces are a tried and true method of tooth alignment. They are time tested with an extensive history of success in the dental industry. Braces are known for their strength and effectiveness, and they can align even the most complex cases of crowding and misalignment. 

How It Works

Braces are made up of three parts, wires, brackets, and bands. All three of these pieces work together to slowly shift your teeth into position. The metal brackets are bonded to the front of your teeth and they are pulled into place by the elastics and bands. Braces are made out of metal which makes them very strong and effective when it comes to tooth alignment. Over time, your braces are tightened and your teeth will move further into alignment. 

Tooth Straightening Timeline

The treatment time for braces will depend on the severity of your tooth misalignment. Patients with mildly crooked teeth may only require treatment for 6 months, while more severe cases of tooth misalignment can take 1-2 years to see the finished results. 

Results

Braces are a well documented and proven way to create a straighter smile. After your tooth straightening treatment, you will have straighter, aligned teeth. Braces are the most effective option for complex cases and severe tooth misalignment.

They can be used for patients of any age and are capable of dramatically transforming your smile. If you are based in Los Angeles and you are looking for an effective way of aligning your teeth, braces are one of the best options available for correcting crooked smiles. 

Invisalign 

Invisalign was invented in the late 90s and has since become incredibly popular amongst patients. This treatment lets patients align their smiles without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. Invisalign is virtually invisible when you smile and it is, therefore, exceptionally popular with adults who may require tooth alignment treatment but dislike the thought of having visible metal braces. 

How it Works 

Unlike braces, Invisalign is removable and versatile, the treatment feels similar to wearing a retainer and it is convenient for patients to eat and clean their teeth effectively. The treatment works with a series of clear plastic aligners that are fitted tightly to your teeth. Every 2-3 weeks, you switch your aligners to a tighter set. The process slowly forces the teeth to shift into place in order to create an aligned smile. You’ll also still need to wear a retainer afterwards to make sure your smile keeps its new look – after all, you probably won’t like what happens if you don’t wear your retainer.

Tooth Straightening Timeline

Invisalign treatment can last for 6 months – 2 years. The timeline is similar to braces and it is completely dependent on the patients’ needs and level of tooth misalignment. This orthodontic procedure works best when the aligners are worn for at least 22h/day. Treatment time may take longer if the patient forgets to wear their aligners, or wears them intermittently. 

If you have minor tooth misalignment and you are looking for a fast way to align your smile, there is an expedited version of Invisalign called Invisalign Express. Invisalign express only takes 3-6 months to shift teeth into place. It is an excellent option for those that are looking for a minor alignment or adjustment. The effects are long term, just like the effects of traditional Invisalign treatment. When you come in for your consultation, ask if Invisalign Express is an option for your case. 

Results

Invisalign treatment can result in a beautiful, straight smile. This method of tooth alignment is a great option for those who are looking for a subtle way to get a straighter smile.  

Veneers

Dental veneers are technically not an orthodontic treatment, and they cannot be used to correct severe tooth misalignment. However, they fall under the category of cosmetic dental procedures and can correct the appearance of minor gaps, chips or mildly crooked teeth. 

How it Works

Veneers enhance the look of your teeth by masking their color, size and shape with a prosthetic outer layer, which is usually made of composite resin or porcelain. The veneer sits on the front of your tooth or teeth and can greatly improve the appearance of any underlying crookedness. 

Tooth Straightening Timeline

Veneers can be ready and placed in as little as 2-3 appointments. Your dentist will meet with you for a consultation, they will determine your goals and your desired end look. If it is decided that veneers are right for you, your dentist will send a request to the lab to have them custom make for your teeth. You will require minor day surgery to place the veneers, and a follow-up appointment to ensure you love your results. 

Results

Veneers are an excellent way to completely transform your smile in a short period of time. They can change the size, color and shape of your teeth, as well as hide any gaps or minor misalignment. Porcelain veneers also last for 10+ years, so your results will be stunning for years to come.  

Visit LA Dental Clinic 

LA Dental Clinic is committed to your oral health and wellness. Our dedicated team will work with you to attain your vision of a straighter smile. We are there to help you every step of the way, from your consultation to treatment planning and post-treatment follow up care. If you are interested in getting started with your journey to a straighter smile, contact us today. We are located in the heart of Koreatown in Los Angeles. 

LA Dental Clinic

3377 Wilshire Blvd #202

Los Angeles, CA, 90010