Orthodontic options available from your dentist in Mission Viejo

Do your spirits lift with pride when you smile, or does the embarrassment of crooked teeth overshadow your happy moment? Aesthetics is the most common reason that adults seek orthodontic treatment, although straight teeth offer many health benefits, such as improving chewing efficiency, reducing jaw strain, and decreasing your risk or periodontal disease. Drs. Alex and Nina Basti, of Mission Viejo, CA, offer three different orthodontic options to meet your needs.

Invisalign

When Invisalign clear aligners were first introduced, more than a decade ago, they were used for cosmetic tooth straightening. With ever advancing technology, this system now rivals metal braces for effectiveness in most cases. Rather than brackets and wires, your teeth are straightened with invisible, removable, plastic aligners.

The primary reason for the popularity of clear aligners is cosmetic. Crooked, misaligned teeth can be embarrassing. You may hesitate to smile, cover your mouth, or simply avoid social situations. For many people, wearing metal braces can be more embarrassing. These simple trays can correct crooked teeth and misalignment, without detracting from your appearance while you are wearing them.

Six Month Smile

The Six Month Smile system is growing in popularity as a great way to achieve cosmetic corrections. The design is similar to traditional braces, with discreet brackets and wires. They are barely noticeable, and they achieve results fast!

These braces focus on the visible teeth, so they are not appropriate for bite correction. By targeting specific movements of select teeth, results are achieved amazingly fast. Treatment time may vary from four to nine months, with an average of just six. This is a great solution for the impatient individual.

Traditional braces

Despite the many new developments in orthodontics, traditional braces remain a popular treatment. In some complex cases, they may be the most (or only) effective solution. In other situations, metal may correct misalignment more quickly. Additionally, some people are more successful with non-removable braces, because there is no temptation to “cheat” by not wearing them.

Your dentist will help you choose the option that is best suited to your lifestyle, budget, oral health, and aesthetic goals. Call 949-427-2096 and schedule an orthodontic consultation today.