How to Straighten Your Own Teeth (Spoiler: Don't)

Dental work can be costly and time-consuming, so you may be wondering how to straighten your own teeth at home to save money and speed up the process. But teeth straightening without the expertise or supervision of a medical professional is risky and could potentially cause permanent damage.

The Risks of DIY Teeth Straightening

Home hacks to straighten your teeth, including the use of alternative means like rubber bands, paper clips, and dental floss, have been popularized on the internet thanks to do-it-yourself (DIY) videos. But without the supervision of a medical professional, these methods are generally considered unsafe.

Teeth straightening performed at home without the supervision of an orthodontist to guide your treatment can potentially cause irreversible damage such as tooth damage, tooth loss, gum issues, and altered biting patterns, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.

Better Teeth Straightening Options

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When it comes to straightening your teeth, always make sure to consult with a healthcare professional such as a dentist, orthodontist, or oral surgeon to avoid damaging your teeth and appropriately determine your best options. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the following are recommended treatments for straightening your teeth:

  • Metal braces: Traditional braces involve wires threaded through metal brackets fixed to your teeth that pull them into proper alignment. You will need to visit your orthodontist periodically to tighten and make adjustments to the wires over time.
  • Dental aligners: Dental aligners are made of a clear plastic and are molded to fit all of your top and bottom teeth. You will wear aligners for 22 hours a day for 1-3 weeks at a time, and then receive a new set of aligners. Your teeth will move slowly with each new set of aligners.
  • Surgery: You may need surgery if your upper and lower jaws are out of alignment, although other orthodontic treatments like braces are still needed before and after surgery.

Start Your Journey to a More Confident Smile Today!

Straightening your teeth can be easy and affordable. Find out how to get started today. ishonest Connect to Care Advisors are standing by to help.

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