How to straighten teeth without braces

Misalignment and teeth that cross over are common dental insecurities. Not only can they affect the way a smile looks, but they can also affect speech, eating ability, and facial structure.

But when it comes to straightening out the teeth, it can be expensive and painful and take well over a year to complete.

Today, we’ll discuss the many ways you can achieve a straighter smile, listing both permanent procedures and our removable pop-on veneers and explaining how each can help you. 

What are braces?

Traditional fixed braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses varying pressure, wires, and brackets to close gaps, straighten out any crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth, and correct bite problems. On average, those undergoing orthodontic treatment will have the braces for around 18-24 months, with some having them for even longer. In extreme cases, elastic bands are needed to encourage movement, and headgear is worn to exert force on the upper and lower jaw.

Can I straighten my teeth without braces?

While traditional braces are the best option for those with jaw issues and serious misalignment, there are alternative methods available for those who want to achieve a straighter smile.

Composite/dental bonding

Dental bonding is when a tooth-colored composite material is molded and cured to your teeth to even out any imperfections.

As cosmetic treatments go, it’s relatively noninvasive and doesn’t require permanent changes to your natural teeth. However, it’s only recommended for those with minor problems, like small gaps and wonkiness, as it cannot straighten out overlapping teeth or correct bite issues.

Dental veneers

Veneers are made of a tooth-colored shell that sits on the front surface of the tooth to cover up any imperfections. Similarly, veneers can’t be used to properly correct any issues with wonkiness in the smile, but can simply cover up small gaps to create an illusion that the teeth are straight.

They also require enamel removal for proper adhesion, causing lasting changes to your teeth and running the risk of developing sensitivity and discomfort. 

Dental crowns

Dental crowns are placed over the whole surface of the tooth, usually to protect the tooth from further damage, to cover root canal treatment, or to strengthen weak teeth.

They can also be used to improve the aesthetic of a smile.

Similar to veneers, porcelain crowns also require the removal of enamel and reshape the entire surface of the tooth, making the procedure irreversible and pretty invasive.

The high cost, combined with the length of time it takes and the changes to the natural teeth, make it quite a daunting procedure.

Clear aligners

Traditional braces are effective at straightening out serious misalignment, but not everyone needs fixed wires and brackets.

Clear aligners are used for those with small gaps and only minor imperfections. They’re removable, basically invisible, and offer much quicker results by swapping the aligner every 1-2 weeks for a result closer to your smile goals.

The main drawback of clear braces is the cost. In the US, it can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000, depending on the condition of your teeth - a price not many people can afford, even with finance options. 

Pop-on veneers

Pop-on veneers are the perfect alternative to the above-mentioned dental treatments. Not only are they cheaper, but they’re equally as - if not more - effective at creating the look of a straight smile.

And the best part?

Using our smile solutions doesn’t require any permanent changes to your natural teeth, so you don’t have to worry about experiencing sensitivity or other side effects that come along with having weaker teeth.

You won’t just achieve a straighter smile with pop-on veneers. Our smile solution disguises discoloration, chips, breaks, and other imperfections for an A-lister smile you’ll be proud to show off.

Made bespoke to your measurements and customized to your smile needs, you can wear your pop-on veneers all day, or just when you need a confidence boost. 

Discover your confidence with instasmile

Looking to achieve a straight-looking smile without the longwinded and expensive treatments?

Fill out an online smile assessment today to get started!