All too often, people assume that crooked teeth are nothing more than a cosmetic problem when a misaligned smile can actually cause additional issues like dental decay, gingivitis, and even oral injury. However, because insurance doesn’t always cover orthodontic treatment from a dentist, many patients find themselves trying to decide whether or not to get braces. Here are a few positive and negative aspects of getting braces, and how to choose an orthodontic care option that works for you. 

Understanding Braces

Benefits of Braces

In addition to straightening your teeth to give you that movie-star smile, braces can also correct bite problems, taking the pressure off of the nerves and muscles of your neck, mouth, and jaw. Having your teeth straightened can also ward off speech and chewing problems, making it easier to eat and talk normally throughout your day.   

Drawbacks of Braces

One of the biggest downsides of traditional braces is the way they look. Because braces rely on a series of brackets and wires to pull the teeth into alignment, they can make your smile look silvery. Fortunately, many dentists offer tooth-colored brackets, wires, and bands, making your braces a little less noticeable. Braces can also be difficult to keep clean, but water irrigators, dental picks, and power toothbrushes make it easier to prevent dental decay during orthodontic treatment. 

Choosing the Right Orthodontic Care Option

Fortunately, patients today also have the option of the Invisalign system, which consists of a series of personalized acrylic aligners. Although Invisalign is effective and barely noticeable, it isn’t suitable for more complex orthodontic cases. To determine which orthodontic solution is right for you, meet with your dentist to talk about your oral anatomy, timeline, and insurance coverage.  

If you are living with crooked or uncomfortable teeth, Gleason Dental Clinic in Beatrice, NE, can help. In addition to offering traditional braces and Invisalign, this state-of-the-art dental clinic can help with everything from preventive care and cosmetic restorations to bridges and emergency dental appointments. With three dentists on staff and a commitment to their clients, Gleason Dental Clinic offers a variety of appointment times, including checkups on nights and weekends. For more information about their dentists or practice, explore their website or call (402) 228-3119.