If you have crooked teeth then the dentist may suggest a few different treatments that will be able to help you. It's a good idea for you to already have some education on these possible treatments so your decision will be easier. This article will introduce you to some of the more common options for straightening teeth and explain the pros and cons of each.

Braces

Braces are one of the most common treatments when it comes to straightening crooked teeth. They are put in place in one visit, which  take up to a couple of hours. Once the braces are on, you can expect some discomfort and mild pain. This is due to the pressure caused by the pulling on your teeth. After a few days, you will get used to the braces and the pain will go away. However, you should expect this same type of pain for a few days each time you go in to have them tightened more.

One of the major reasons many dentists like to suggest braces for teeth straightening is due to the fact that they relatively non-invasive. Also, the dentist won't need to make changes to the natural teeth and the enamel can be kept intact, this is something some of the other options don't offer.

Invisible aligners

Invisible aligners are similar to braces in the way they work. However, instead of having brackets and wires attached to your teeth, you will wear clear aligners made from a material similar to plastic. The dentist will take an impression of your mouth and the aligners will be made to fit while having areas that apply the pressure needed to make your teeth adjust so they become straighter. One of the things you want to consider about these aligners is they do take longer than traditional braces do to move your teeth into proper position.

Some dentists prefer to go with clear aligners when your teeth only require a little movement. You may like the idea of going with them because they don't take as long to get used to. Also, you can take them out of your mouth to clean them and to sleep, this gives you a break from them each day. You will have to go in throughout the course of your treatment to have the aligners traded in for new ones so the necessary pressure will continue to be placed on your teeth.

Porcelain veneers

Another option for straightening your teeth may be to have porcelain veneers put on them. If your teeth are only slightly crooked, the dentist can grind the affected ones down to make room for veneers and use them to give you a corrected bite. One thing you need to consider about this option is it does mean removing your protective enamel, but the veneers that go on your teeth will be permanent and look as natural teeth do.

One of the big benefits to going with porcelain veneers for teeth straightening is they allow you to have straight teeth in only two visits. On the first visit the dentist will grind down your teeth and take the impression of your mouth the lab will use to make the veneers. On the second visit, the cosmetic dentist will use bonding material to put the veneers permanently on your teeth.

Once you get the straight smile you have wanted, you may find it easier to eat certain foods, pronounce certain words and you will feel better about the appearance of your smile.