3. Straightening Teeth

Every tooth in a man's head is more valuable than a diamond. — Miguel de Cervantes

There are plenty of ways to straighten teeth, but this guide focuses on three main methods: metal braces, invisible aligners, and veneers. The most effective methods are listed first, but each has unique pros and cons. Consider all options before choosing the one that best suits your needs.

Metal braces

As of 2019, the average American spends about $5,000 on braces, presuming that he or she doesn't have dental insurance [1].

While that might sound expensive, recognize that braces are the only method on this list with the added benefit of realigning your root canals. Realignment is used to remedy crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw, which can snowball into huge problems if left alone.

The downside of braces is that they can be quite an eyesore. The best way to make them look "better" is to opt for clear/ceramic braces, but even these will stick out.

But if you're highly conscious about how they look, you shouldn't be. Over 4 million people in the U.S. wear braces and 25% of them are adults [1]. Over time, braces have become more and more commonplace as the practice improves:

Braces are used for an average of 16 months, but they can sometimes take longer [1]. A year and a half may seem like a long time, but it is a worthy investment in your future dental hygiene. Braces, unlike the other options, actually shift your root canals to straighten your teeth semi-permanently.

Invisible aligners

These aren't meant for everyone, so first check with a dentist or orthodontist to see if aligners are a good alternative to braces for you.

While braces use attached wires to encourage tooth alignment, invisible aligners are a series of tight-fitting, custom-made, and clear mouthpieces that slip over your teeth to perform the same task.

Unlike braces, which remain attached to teeth until they become straight, aligners have to be continuously put on and taken off as you eat. If you don't trust yourself to constantly remember to take them with you, clean them, or reapply them, it's highly suggested that you stick with braces.

If none of that seems like a big deal, there is one huge benefit that invisible aligners have over braces: They look better. And because you can take them off, you can actually brush and floss well.

Like braces, invisible aligners take between 16 and 24 months to realign your teeth. Similarly, they also cost about $5,000, assuming you don't have dental insurance [1].

Veneer and Lumineers

This is the last option on the list because these don't physically straighten your teeth but instead make them look like they are.

If possible, you should first see if braces or aligners are an option before considering this one. While these are definitely the fastest way to achieve straight teeth, they also have the most potential downsides.

However, if braces or aligners are a huge problem, then veneers or lumineers might be a viable solution.

To begin, you should first understand the difference between the two types:

Before even considering between the two, check with your dentist and/or orthodontist if it an option. As of @October 22, 2020 lumineers are a brand of veneer only offered by some dentists.

Additionally, veneers cost the most out of the three options. Depending on your own particular situation, traditional veneers may cost between $950 and $2,500 per tooth [1].

The bottom line

Braces are the best option for most people as they are a better version of invisible aligners with the slight drawback of looking worse. If you are an individual that needs to have a more appealing look, then aligners are a decent alternative. If both of these options are an issue, then consider getting veneers.

2. Condensed Review 4. Brushing Well