I have protruded front teeth. I’m looking for options for fixing them, including cosmetic options. My dentist said there’s not much that can be done unless I go to an orthodontist, but there have to be options. While I’ve been with my dentist for years, he doesn’t really keep up with the industry. He likes just to do your basic general dentistry and that is it.
Alina
Dear Alina,
It is fine if you are happy with just a bread and butter dentist for your regular care and then you can go to a more advanced dentist for other services. My only concern is to make sure that he isn’t still giving you the old silver fillings for your cavities. There are better filling alternatives that are better for your tooth structure and do not contain any mercury.
As for your options for fixing your protruded teeth, there are three good options for you.
Fixing Protruded Teeth by Straightening Them
Braces Vs. Invisalign
Your first option is obviously braces, but based on the fact you are asking for alternatives, I’m guessing that isn’t what you want to do. In that case, you can look into using Invisalign to straighten your teeth. These use clear aligners that you wear, with the exception of when you are eating or brushing and flossing your teeth. You will need to go to a dentist who is Invisalign certified, but there are many of them so that will not be a problem.
You will also find that they have a secret benefit. The clear aligners can also double as teeth whitening trays. Your dentist can provide you with professional strength teeth whitening gel, and you wear it in your aligners at your convenience. By the time you are done with your Invisalign treatment, you will have a mini smile makeover.
Fixing Protruded Teeth by Making Them Look Straight
Another option is to get porcelain veneers. These will not actually straighten your teeth, but they can make them look straight. Be aware that if your teeth are excessively protruded, you will have to remove a lot more tooth structure than you normally would for this procedure.
This option makes more sense if you are wanting to do more to your teeth than just make them look straight. This is what you’d use if you want a complete smile makeover. This gives celebrities that Hollywood smile. It can change the shape, size, and color of your teeth.
While you can get Invisalign from any dentist who offers it without much risk, you don’t want to go to any dentist who offers porcelain veneers. You want someone who has invested in post-doctoral training in cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers. This is an advanced procedure that is not adequately taught in dental school.
I hope this helps.
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