When it comes to the smile, more than half of the adult population in the United States over the age of 50 agree that the smile is the one physical feature that stays most attractive as we age, according to research conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). If your smile is less than perfect, it may cause you to be self conscious. Besides getting dental implants, cosmetic dentistry is the easiest way to fix this problem.

Different Types of Straightening

There are two common types of straightening methods available through a family dental office, one is braces and the other is invisible braces, or Invisalign. An increasing number of adults are getting braces to create a beautiful looking smile.

If you are looking for something a little more subtle than braces, the Invisalign option is a good choice for you. According to the AACD, 74% of adults feel like an unattractive smile can hurt their career success. This can go for braces as well. Some adults feel uncomfortable wearing metal braces, which is where Invisalign is a better option as they are clear plastic trays worn over the teeth.

Consider Allergies

Are you allergic to nickel or latex? Some metal braces have nickel in the wires and brackets worn on the teeth. The latex is found in the elastics and o-ring ligatures, so be sure to consult with your dentist before deciding on an option.

In addition, some people are allergic to materials in the plastic trays or retainers. If you have any allergies or your skin is sensitive to any type of metal or chemical, it is important to let your dentist know right away.

Once you start wearing the braces or Invisalign, keep an eye out for a large amount of mouth sores, swelling, hives, or upper respiratory symptoms as these may be signs you are allergic to a material found in the braces or Invisalign.

After Braces


Once you have completed the cycle of braces or Invisalign, you will need to wear a retainer. A retainer will make sure your teeth stay in place after the treatment is complete. Retainers come in two types, the first is made of acrylic and metal, where the second is a clear plastic tray similar to the Invisalign braces. A retainer will be worn for the rest of your life, so it is important to get regular checkups and clean it as often as you brush your teeth.

Teeth straightening is a big decision and investment, so it is important to find the right method that works for you. After the treatment is complete, be prepared to wear retainers to ensure your teeth stay nice and straight. A survey showed 96% of adult believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to member of the opposite sex, so invest in your smile!