Is this you? Your crooked front teeth have been the bane of your existence for as long as you can remember, but you just can’t stomach the thought of spending years in braces. Don’t worry, you may be a good candidate for a quicker orthodontic treatment that will get you a straighter smile in six months.

What is Six Month Smiles?

This orthodontic treatment involves clear adult braces that concentrate just on realigning the teeth that show when you smile. This means you won’t have to suffer through a mouth full of braces. They will only focus on select teeth. The aim is to improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile and not correct the bite.

Are They Comfortable to Wear?

Because Six Month Smiles uses a gentle force to move the teeth so they are very comfortable to wear and there is less of a risk for root damage and other damage to your teeth. You won’t have as much soreness as you do with regular braces.

Another plus is that the brackets are clear and the wires are tooth-colored so most people won’t even know you are wearing braces so you won’t feel embarrassed by your mouth during treatment.

What Is The Process Like?

Very similar to the process for traditional braces, you will go in for a consultation and the orthodontist will do an evaluation and take x-rays, photographs and impressions of your teeth to create a model that will help the orthodontist plan your treatment.

If you are a good candidate for Six Month Smiles, the model will be used to fabricate the braces and then during your next appointment they will be put on.  Next you will come back to the orthodontist every four to five weeks for any adjustments and wire tightening until you are able to have the braces removed.

Do They Offer Improved Hygiene?

Another great benefit of choosing Six Month Smiles is that with them it is easier to maintain proper hygiene. Because the braces are only a few teeth, it will be easier to get in there and brush and floss making sure you get rid of all the plaque and bacteria. And because you only have to wear them for six months, there is less of a risk of developing cavities or gum inflammation which can sometimes happen with regular braces.

Do I Have to Wear a Retainer?

You will have to wear a retainer after the braces. It is a standard technique to keep the teeth in their new position. There are different types of retainers though including removable ones and those that are bonded in place so you can find the retainer that works best for your lifestyle.

Am I a Good Candidate for Six Month Smiles?

Most adults with crooked or gapped teeth are good candidates for Six Month Smiles. However if you have serious misalignment or bite issues, regular braces or Invisalign will be better because they will actually correct those issues instead of just focusing on cosmetic appearance.

The most common dental issues that can be treated with Six Month Smile are crooked front teeth, extrusions, rotations and intrusions. It also works for diastemas and spacing issues as well as overbites, open bites and crowded and overlapping teeth.

Does It Really Only Take Six Months?

In most cases treatment only lasts for 6 months, but sometime treatment length might vary depending on individual alignment issues.

Is Six Smiles More Expensive?

The answer to this question depends on how much you value a beautiful smile. Six Month Smiles can cost a little more than traditional metal braces, but it may be worth it to you. Most orthodontists offer a variety of treatment options to help you manage the cost better.

Keep in mind that Six Month Smiles is similar to traditional braces in certain ways as well. First, there will be some food restrictions. Sticky and hard food and candy can damage the brackets and wires so you still need to avoid them. Foods like whole apples should be cut up into smaller bite sizes pieces. Also avoid sugary food and drink to cut down on the risk of cavities during treatment. Make sure you follow all the instructions that the orthodontist gives you.

Finding the Right Orthodontist

Besides finding the right treatment for you, it is also important that you find the right orthodontist for you as well.

For the best results, you want an orthodontist who is experienced and has proven success in treating different alignment issues. Here are some qualities you should look for:

• Individualized attention – Look for an orthodontist and team who understand that each patient’s situation is different. You want someone who will take the time to sit down and go over all your options and create for you the best treatment plan for your particular needs.
•  A team that really cares – It is important that you pick a team that really cares for you and will be compassionate and understanding throughout your care.
• Experienced staff – Make sure you choose an orthodontist who is certified by the American Board of Orthodontist and who is experienced and skilled at your preferred type of treatment.
• Updated equipment and technology — If you have ever walked into a dentist’s office and felt like you walked back into the 70s, then you understand the importance of updated equipment and technology. It is hard to have confidence in an orthodontist who hasn’t stayed up-to-date on all the current technology and trends in orthodontics. The best way to know if a particular orthodontist is right for you is to meet with them face to face. How you feel in their offices, how the staff treats you and the orthodontist’s chairside manner can all be factors in how you feel about a particular orthodontist. Don’t be afraid to set up consultations at different places.

Dental Wellness Phoenixville is an experienced orthodontic practice in Phoenixville. Contact Dental Wellness Phoenixville today for your free consultation and take one step closer to a more beautiful smile.