Most people want straighter teeth, and not only because they are more attractive. Crooked teeth are harder to clean, increasing the risk of oral issues like gum disease and cavities. Braces have a long track record for aligning teeth, but it is possible to correct crooked perfect teeth without braces them. Here are a few ways to achieve the perfect smile you’ve always dreamed of.

1. Invisalign

Invisalign is a series of clear, removable aligners that straighten your teeth without the metal wires and brackets of traditional braces. It is a good option for adults and older teens with mild to moderate misalignment.

The trays are easy to clean and don’t require the dietary restrictions of conventional braces. They also eliminate the food debris stuck in the wires and brackets of traditional braces, which can be difficult to remove.

Invisalign trays are virtually invisible so colleagues and clients won’t be able to tell that you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will create a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs.

2. Dental veneers

Dental veneers are an ideal cosmetic treatment for crooked teeth. These ultra-thin strips of porcelain or resin composite are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They mask the imperfections to create a bright, straight smile. They can also hide chipped, broken, discolored or worn teeth.

The dentist will numb the area with local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. They will then prepare your tooth by removing a small amount of enamel. The veneer will be shaped to fit comfortably against your natural tooth and will match its color.

A special cement is then used to bond the veneer to your tooth. The dentist will check the fit and bite and make any final adjustments.

3. Dental crowns

Dental crowns (formerly called caps) are a cosmetic treatment that restore the look and function of damaged teeth. They can also mask mild to moderate crowding and crookedness, making them an effective alternative to braces for achieving a more uniform smile.

Crowns are robust and durable, shielding the teeth they encase from further decay or damage. They can also strengthen teeth that have undergone extensive decay, fractures, or large fillings.

Unlike veneers, crowns can be used on any type of tooth. They are usually made of porcelain or ceramic and can be designed to match the look of any natural tooth. With proper oral hygiene, crowns can last for many years.

4. Retainers

After putting in the time, effort and money to straighten your teeth with braces or aligners, you want that new smile to last. That’s where retainers come in. Retainers are like the diligent guardians of your new alignment, keeping your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Your orthodontist may recommend either removable or permanent retainers, depending on your specific needs. For example, some children who have a tongue thrust or bruxism might benefit from a customized retainer that helps them speak more clearly. Removable retainers usually consist of a plastic piece that fits in the roof of your mouth, with a wire running across your teeth.

5. Palatal expanders

Palatal expanders help by widening the roof of your mouth gradually. The device has a central screw that cranks when your orthodontist instructs you to turn it, and this creates pressure on the two sides of the palate, splitting them apart and creating more space. This helps to correct issues like overcrowding, crossbites and narrow arches.

The appliance is usually used for children, but can also be helpful for adults to improve facial asymmetry caused by posterior dental crossbites. However, the expansion process is typically quicker for kids as their bones are still growing.

It may cause some discomfort, but this is less severe than with braces and only lasts a few minutes after the screw is turned.

6. Dental bonding

Dental bonding is a cost-effective and fast cosmetic solution to close the gaps between teeth. It also helps improve the appearance of discolored and chipped teeth.

During the process, your dentist will consult with you to determine your cosmetic goals. The dentist will then take X-rays to assess your oral health and ensure this treatment is suitable for you.

Next, the dentist will roughen the surface of your tooth and apply a conditioning liquid to prepare it for the composite resin material. They then build layers of the resin onto your tooth and shape it as desired. Once the resin is hardened, they will polish it to make it look natural.