If you have crooked teeth and don't like the idea of wearing braces for an extended period of time, you'll be excited to learn there may be other treatments you can choose from. The information in this article will help you learn about some of the different methods known for giving people a straighter smile without the use of braces.

Veneers

If your teeth aren't too crooked, then veneers may be able to help. These are porcelain sheaths that fit over your natural teeth once the orthodontist has filed them down. They are bonded in place and offer you a permanent solution and almost instant gratification. The process generally takes only two appointments and you will have the smile you've always wanted.

How the veneers work is the orthodontist will shave down enough of your teeth for the bonding and the veneers to fit on each of them. An impression will be made of your mouth where veneers will be made to fit each tooth perfectly and to create a correct bite. The veneers will be bonded in place on each tooth one by one and the orthodontist will check to make sure they fit correctly. Veneers can only be done if your natural teeth don't need to be ground down too much to make room for the veneers.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners work in much the same way as braces do. However, they consist of a clear piece that fits over your teeth. The aligners are made to fit right on your teeth and apply enough pressure to help them move into proper alignment.

When you choose to go with the clear aligners, you will have to go in to the orthodontist every couple of weeks to get a new aligner. This will help them to continue moving your teeth in the right direction. This treatment can take just as long, if not a little longer than braces. However, many people like that they are invisible and you can take them out to care for your teeth.

Retainers

If you only need a couple of teeth to be shifted slightly over, then you may be a good candidate for a retainer. Like the clear aligners, retainers can slowly shifting the teeth by applying slight pressure in the right areas. Although retainers are most often used after braces, in some instances they can be used as the only form of treatment.

If you would like your teeth to be straighter and don't want to go with braces, then you should talk to your orthodontist about the options mentioned above to see if one of them would work for you.