Can I Straighten My Teeth Without Seeing a Dentist?
Straight, well-aligned teeth are often associated with a confident, healthy, and appealing smile. Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, patients have more options than ever when it comes to obtaining the beautiful, uniform smile they desire. One question that many patients have is whether or not at-home orthodontic solutions—such as mail-order aligners—are a viable option.
Generally speaking, the best way to straighten your teeth is under the expert guidance of a qualified orthodontist or dentist. Dental professionals undergo years of specialized training in order to learn about the complex structures of the teeth, gums, and jaw. This enables them to provide customized solutions for patients seeking functional and aesthetic smile enhancement. Receiving care directly from a dentist also ensures that someone is able to oversee all aspects of treatment to ensure that your journey to straighter teeth remains on track.
At-home or “DIY” orthodontic solutions are generally less predictable than professional treatments, and a lack of professional oversight means that any issues that may arise are more difficult to address. Furthermore, at-home aligner systems are often not able to treat the underlying causes of misalignment. While patients are often drawn to the convenience of not having to schedule dental visits, professional treatments typically yield more reliable and consistent results
For those patients who have already started an at-home aligner treatment and have been stranded by their provider, our dentists in Blaine can assess your progress and pick up where your previous orthodontic solution left off. We offer both traditional braces and Invisalign® treatment, depending on the needs and goals of the patient. Invisalign® offers similar levels of convenience, comfort, and discretion as mail-order clear aligners, and they are typically the most seamless transition for patients. However, traditional braces are often the most cost-efficient option, and they can be a good solution for those who struggled to wear their aligners as directed.
During a consultation, one of our dentists can assess your bite and review your goals before making personalized recommendations for helping you achieve your smile goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.