Dental braces have advanced, providing a variety of options for correcting misaligned teeth.
For example, ceramic braces and lingual braces provide an alternative to metal braces, while plastic aligners have revolutionized how teeth straightening can be achieved.
Dental veneers are another alternative to braces, and accelerated orthodontics, with minor surgery, can correct crooked teeth faster than braces alone.
Here we’ll look at the pros and cons of the various ways to straighten teeth and how they compare price-wise.
Braces aren’t cheap. Metal braces are likely to set you back upwards of $6,000, with ceramic braces and lingual braces costing even more.
Advances in orthodontics have resulted in less conspicuous alternatives to braces. The most popular of these are clear plastic aligners. These have many advantages over traditional braces but are generally more expensive.
This is why many people turn to home teeth straightening, with aligners delivered to your door that cost thousands less than in-office clear aligner treatments, or getting metal/ceramic braces.
If you need to get braces on a limited budget, bear in mind that metal braces cost less than ceramic braces or lingual braces, and are effective in rectifying many orthodontic issues. On the downside, metal braces are more noticeable.
There are other ways adults can cut the cost of getting braces. You could try:
Today, the cheapest and safest way to straighten your teeth is to get at-home invisible aligners. Start by having an impression kit sent to you in the mail, from which customised clear aligners can be made for you and delivered to your home.
You can make the cost of braces for your child more manageable by planning in advance for their orthodontic treatment, so you’re financially prepared for the expenditure when the time comes – or at least have some of the cost covered.
If you have dental insurance, look into the possibility of increasing orthodontic options. Health insurance benefits through work will also cover some of the cost.
It’s advisable to shop around for orthodontic treatment for your child – fees for braces vary from clinic-to-clinic because there are no provincial fee guides for orthodontics, and again, ask whether you can pay in monthly instalments.
If your child is under 14 and you simply cannot afford orthodontic care for them, there may still be a solution. Under a national scheme, local orthodontists can provide treatment for $500 to cover admin costs. Applications are assessed on financial eligibility, based on federal government low-income criteria.
Universal health care in Canada doesn’t include any type of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, but – as the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (CAO) points out – some dental insurance plans do cover teeth straightening, which can halve the cost.
Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign as well as conventional braces. Your insurance provider may pay a set dollar amount or a percentage of the cost of treatment, but there’s often a lifetime cap on these payments.
The first step in getting your insurance to pay for Invisalign is to contact the provider to confirm they specifically cover Invisalign treatment. If they do, you’ll probably find they don’t pay the dentist directly, so you’ll have to pay upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement.
When looking for alternatives to metal braces, you may want to consider ceramic braces or lingual braces.
Ceramic braces are similar in shape and size to their metal counterparts but have clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with teeth. Tooth-coloured wires can also be used to make them even less conspicuous. Ceramic braces move teeth faster than plastic aligners but cost more than metal braces. If you don’t take good care of them, they can easily become stained.
Lingual (tongue side) braces are one of the most expensive types of braces. Like ceramic braces, they’re similar to metal braces – but instead of going onto the front of teeth, they’re attached to the back, which keeps them hidden from view. On the downside, lingual braces are hard to keep clean and routine adjustments are difficult, which means lengthy appointments.
Although less discreet than ceramic braces and lingual braces, metal braces remain the most effective option to treat severe teeth overcrowding.
The cosmetic dental procedure of choice for Hollywood celebrities, porcelain veneers are tooth-coloured, ultra-thin casings fixed onto the front of teeth to conceal problems such as crowded or gapped teeth, slightly misaligned teeth, or stains and chipping.
Accelerated orthodontics speeds up teeth straightening with the help of minor surgery. Before your braces are fitted, gum and bone tissue are trimmed and restructured so teeth can be moved into their correct position more easily.
A generally cheaper alternative to Invisalign, ClearCorrect plastic aligners offer similar benefits you can’t get with braces, including:
Disadvantages of ClearCorrect:
Braces and aligners move teeth into their correct position by exerting mild, constant pressure that causes jaw bone to soften and reconstruct.
Instead of straightening your teeth, DIY attempts at orthodontics can permanently damage them and cause infection, so don’t be tempted to try braces “hacks” you may come across online. Trying to manually push teeth into place or using elastic bands or string as makeshift orthodontic appliances can seriously jeopardise your oral health.
The only way to safely and effectively straighten your teeth at home is with the help of a reputable home teeth straightening provider, that has passed country-specific health certifications such as Health Canada or the FDA.
With professional home teeth straightening – supervised and monitored by dental experts – you get a series of custom-fit invisible aligners delivered to your door. They’re made from a mould of your mouth for a perfect fit.
A key benefit of this system is the greatly reduced cost. For instance, clear plastic aligners from NewSmile® cost about 75 percent less than braces and will save you thousands of dollars compared with in-office aligner treatment.
You’ll also receive:
While regular aligners need to be worn for 22 hours a day for the best results, night aligners are available to straighten your teeth while you sleep, and worn for 10 continuous hours a day.
Teeth straightening at home with NewSmile® – including a monitoring app to help you keep your treatment on track, with the average treatment time taking just four to six months.
This compares with an average treatment time of two years for braces, and 12 to 18 months with other in-office invisible aligner treatments. Moreover, there are no time-consuming, expensive repeat trips to the dentist or orthodontist.
Home aligners shouldn’t be confused with DIY orthodontics without professional dental supervision, which can be extremely dangerous.
In the hands of professionals, straightening your teeth at home is perfectly safe, with dental experts monitoring your treatment and are also available to answer any questions you may have.
If you have concerns about the type of aligners you may get, check that they’re approved by Health Canada.
Home teeth straightening with aligners can correct mild to moderate cases of crooked, gapped or crowded teeth. This makes it an ideal option for individuals looking to straighten their teeth for aesthetic reasons – a fast, convenient and affordable way to get a dream smile. If you have a more serious orthodontic issue, regular braces are likely to be more effective.
A good home teeth straightening company has dental professionals on hand to evaluate your specific case, and will generally offer a free smile assessment to help you make an informed decision on whether at-home teeth straightening is your best alternative to braces.
Oral health is a crucial aspect of your overall well-being. Your teeth are not only key to a beautiful smile but also play a vital role in eating and can reflect your overall health. Maintaining good oral hygiene is simple but essential, as neglecting it can lead to serious consequences.
Are you brushing your teeth the right way? Have you ever wondered how long you should brush your teeth? Here are the facts:
When you skip brushing your teeth, your mouth fills with bacteria and germs which can be harmful in several ways. Most notably, bacteria and germ buildup in your mouth can lead to a buildup of plaque, gum disease, and gingivitis. These three things alone can lead to a whole host of other health-related issues. The following are just a few of the many issues that can occur when you forget to brush and floss.
Studies have indicated that a buildup of plaque in the mouth can lead to a buildup of plaque in the heart. Plaque in your heart can result in deadly consequences. There’s a strong correlation between poor oral hygiene and heart disease, which is a pretty good reason to brush twice a day.
Though it should go without saying, when you skip brushing your teeth, or you don’t know how long you should brush your teeth and you fall short, you can develop bad breath. Bad breath can range from mild to extreme, and it’s worth it to brush regularly so you can avoid these awkward moments. If you are particularly prone to bad breath, you may need to also use mouthwash and a tongue scraper regularly as well.
Gum disease and gingivitis can wreak havoc on your mouth and do irreparable damage. Learning how long you should brush your teeth and practicing good oral hygiene can help you avoid these diseases. If you neglect your oral health and end up with gum disease or gingivitis, resulting in bad breath, tender gums, plaque buildup, tooth decay, enamel damage, and even tooth loss.
The plaque that builds up in your mouth when you don’t regularly brush is swallowed and enters the rest of your body. This dangerous plaque not only has the potential to cause heart problems, but strokes as well. Strokes can be deadly or debilitating, and if you want to better your chances of avoiding one, you can brush regularly.
An easy way to remember how long you should brush your teeth and how often you should brush is the 2x2 rule. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, the average person only brushes their teeth for 45-75 seconds — which is certainly not long enough.
You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. A quick 30 second brush won’t cut it, even if you are using an expensive electric toothbrush. You need at least two minutes of active brushing twice a day to keep your mouth healthy and clean.
Generally, dentists recommend that you brush your teeth in the morning and before you go to bed. If you find that you need an extra brushing during the day, do not hesitate. The cleaner you keep your mouth, the better off you are.
Once you know how long you should brush your teeth for, it is important to find a way to track that time and hold yourself accountable. Little kids often have toothbrushes that play music for the two minute duration to keep them bruising, but as an adult, it is just as important that you make sure you are brushing for at least two minutes. Set a timer on your phone or play a song that you enjoy for at least two minutes to keep you brushing. If you are having a hard time remembering the 2x2 rule, consider putting a reminder on your bathroom mirror.
Brushing your teeth for the appropriate amount of time is just the beginning. You also need to floss daily, visit your dentist regularly, and use a fluoride mouthwash. Flossing is vital because a toothbrush cannot reach every surface of your teeth. Also, flossing isn’t just for popcorn kernels, it’s for plaque and buildup that you can’t get with a toothbrush. If you have a permanent retainer or braces that make it difficult to floss around, use a water flosser.
A fluoride mouthwash will help with bad breath and will also prevent cavities. If you live in an area that does not have fluoride in the water, it is important that you swish with a fluoride mouthwash regularly. Some people have weaker enamel on their teeth and no matter if they learn how long you should brush your teeth for and do it, they are still susceptible to cavities. Fluoride builds up and protects your teeth from cavities. Not all mouthwash has fluoride in it, so make sure to check the label at the store.
Lastly, regular dentist visits are a must. A dentist has tools that you don’t have in your bathroom, and a bi-yearly visit keeps your teeth clean and your mouth healthy. When visiting a dentist, ask any oral health questions that you may have and see if he or she has any suggestions. Dentists are teeth professionals, so they are in the best position to help you create an oral care regimen that perfectly fits you needs.
Now that you know how long you should brush your teeth for, there are no excuses — get brushing. High-quality smile correction and cosmetic dentistry mean nothing if you don’t follow the 2x2 rule and follow good hygiene practices. Protect your smile with a toothbrush and some floss — it’s just that easy.
Oral care ranges from innovative smile correcting programs to simple tasks like flossing and brushing. Whether you are trying to learn how long to brush your teeth, or other oral hygiene hacks, we have the answers you need.
You’re on your way to a straighter smile with your NewSmile aligners, but the journey comes with its own challenges. Food can be a major culprit, especially when it comes to your teeth. Certain foods can turn your bright white teeth yellow or even gray. Let's explore the worst offenders and share some tips to help you avoid staining. But before we dive into the list of stain-causing foods, let’s go over a few important technical terms.
The food that we eat and liquids that we consume are made up of different components, and there are three substances that are horrible for our teeth; they are acid, chromogens, and tannins. These substances are to blame for stained teeth.
Some of these food products may seem hard to give up altogether and as with everything, moderation is the key. Mind the number of cups of coffee and tea that you drink, try not to go too crazy with the berries during the summer season, and if you are going to drink cola, try to choose sugar-free. A few other things that you could try is:
Love your smile and keep them healthy at the same time. NewSmile is excited to be your partner!
As children, we often heard phrases like, “Don’t eat too much sugar or you’ll ruin your teeth,” or “You’ll spoil your appetite,” from our parents. While we might have ignored their advice, there was more wisdom in their warnings than we realized. Some foods can even break your teeth, posing a risk that goes beyond just being bad for your dental health. These foods could potentially lead to an emergency visit to the dentist. NewSmile is here to highlight five foods that can damage your teeth, so you can avoid them and maintain your beautiful smile.
Yep, you read that right. Something as simple and innocent as ice can damage your teeth! Even though ice may not contain any sugars that can create cavities chewing it can damage your teeth’s enamel.
Okay, this one won’t crack your teeth (unless you’re chewing on the can which would be a whole other blog post), but sugary sodas weaken your teeth’s enamel making them softer and more susceptible to cracking or breaking. Drink soda in moderation to prevent the softening of your teeth and the risk of breaking them on these other foods.
Biting into an un-pitted olive is dangerous when you don’t realize that it’s not pitted. That’s when crack you go to the dentist.
Yep, everyone’s favorite snack at the movies is also infamous for cracking teeth. Chomping down on an un-popped kernel will crack your tooth. You don’t have to get rid of the popcorn when you go to the movies, just be more careful.
This one you really have to be careful with. Crunching on almonds can chip your teeth if you are not careful. They may be delicious but eat almonds with caution.
When you damage your teeth you may throw off their alignment. When that happens, be sure to buy NewSmile teeth aligners to help correct your smile.
Are you happy with your smile? We believe that everyone deserves to have complete confidence in their smile. Our clear braces provide an affordable solution to help you achieve the smile you desire with just a few simple steps.
Tired of spending time scheduling and attending expensive visits to the dentist or orthodontist? You’ll love the simplicity, affordability, and convenience of the NewSmile® process. This how-to guide will walk you through the process.
It’s easy. First, call us for a free consultation, and then order the NewSmile® impression kit on our website. Ordering the kit is risk-free, as we’ll return your money if it turns out that aligners aren’t a good fit for you.
We’ll send the impression kit to your home, and you can use our easy-to-follow instructions to make an accurate mold of your teeth. The at-home teeth straightening kit will have everything you need, and the process is very simple.
After making the impressions, you can use the included a prepaid return shipping label to send the impressions back to us. You can even send the impressions back in the same box.
Once we receive your impressions, one of our dental experts will evaluate your case. Using that information, they will create a treatment preview that will give you a sneak peak of your future smile. If you like the results and want to move forward, we’ll create the clear aligners and send them to you in the mail.
Next, you simply start wearing the clear braces according to the laid-out schedule, and in as little as one month, you can start to see results.
Most of our customers wear each aligner set for around two weeks for 22 hours a day, and they need about 15 aligners to see full results.
That’s it! The process is simple, and every step is taken within the comfort of your own home—how easy is that?
For many people, NewSmile®'s clear aligners are an excellent alternative to braces. Our aligners offer several benefits over the traditional braces route.
Let’s face it, orthodontia can be expensive. Regular appointments with orthodontists and dentists for braces maintenance can add up to a pricey bill. Our customers may pay up to 75% less than they would if they went with traditional braces.
With NewSmile®, you can forget about taking a long lunch, using valuable PTO, or begging your boss for time out of the office to make your orthodontic appointment. In fact, you don’t have to sacrifice work for your smile at all. We deliver a smile you’ll love all from the comfort of your own home. We send clear aligners directly to you through the mail—no appointment required, and no late fees.
Traditional braces come with a long list of do’s and don’ts when it comes to activities and even foods you’re allowed to eat. Forget skipping out on your favourite snacks, NewSmile® aligners allow you to eat whatever you want. Even brushing is easier since you simply take out the aligners and brush the same way you have always brushed. You can also forget trying to thread through bulky brackets when flossing. Dental care will remain as simple as always.
You also don’t have to worry about extra danger with contact sports like football. Just take out the aligners while you practice or play and pop them back in when you’re done. NewSmile® clear braces are designed to seamlessly work with your day-to-day life.
NewSmile® aligners don’t come with a pain-free guarantee. Most people will experience some level of discomfort during the first few days they wear a new aligner as their teeth start to adjust. However, you won’t have to deal with many of the discomforts of traditional braces.
Metal brackets on traditional braces can uncomfortably rub against the interior of your mouth. Wires and brackets alike can scratch and irritate your cheeks—some patients have to deal with bleeding and significant soreness, not to mention how hard it is to clean your teeth with metal brackets.
With NewSmile® clear braces, you don’t have to worry about using wax to guard your mouth against brackets or wires. You avoid the issue altogether. And you can easily clean the trays while brushing and flossing your teeth like normal.
You deserve to love the way you look. Experience the NewSmile® difference. Watch your smile transform with easy-to-use clear aligners. For more information, or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.
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Charlie Chaplin was a genius of his time, rising to fame during the silent film era and understanding the power of a simple facial expression—a smile. Through his brilliant acting, he brought countless smiles to people's faces and demonstrated the significance of smiling with a memorable song:
What was Chaplin’s message? Just smile! He knew somehow that smiling could actually make things better; it could actually lift your mood. So, how many times have you smiled today? Well, why don’t you try it, right now, go ahead and smile. How do you feel? You may feel a little silly just smiling to yourself but you may also feel surprised to realize that your mood may have lifted a little. This is because when we smile, we release a few hormones, namely endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, into our bloodstream that in turn help our body relax by bringing down our heart rate and blood pressure.
Smiling is also contagious. Have you ever had a complete stranger smile at you and you’ve automatically smiled back, without even thinking? We tend to mimic other people’s expressions unconsciously. We are social creatures and it is by mimicking that we can understand (or try to) what the other person’s feeling. It is hard not to smile when everybody around you has a grin from ear to ear!
So, how can we smile more? There are so many ways, let’s have a look at a few:
Join the Smile Challenge and get smiling! It will not only make you feel happier and put you in a better mood, but chances are that you’ll make someone else smile, too.
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If you're considering straightening your teeth at home, you'll need to take your dental impressions yourself. To begin your journey quickly and successfully, use these tips to create clear, accurate impressions of your teeth and get closer to a smile you'll love.
See if you're a fit for NewSmile® Aligners
Before taking impressions of your teeth at home, know that we'll be making 3D molds of your teeth, and making using that model to make aligners that should fit firm and snug around your teeth. Since the aligners will be moving your teeth to be straight, they'll be applying pressure to the bottom of your teeth, which will need your gum line imprint.
Your teeth should be comfortably placed in the middle of the tray, and NOT rub up against the edges of the tray which will give a bad impression. To check the fit, place the tray inside your mouth without any putty in it. The tray shouldn’t touch or pinch the outer edges of your teeth. If you need a different tray size, let us know right away. Don’t make your impressions and we'll send you better fitting trays!
We use VPS putty which hardens quickly, so mix the putty as fast and as much as possible until it's one solid colour, without any streaks of the original putty colours. If you don’t mix it thoroughly, the putty won’t capture your impressions.
Line up your teeth over the centre of the tray before you bite down. It helps to look in a mirror so you can make sure the tray handle is positioned at the centre of your smile.
Press the tray deep enough so the putty can fully capture your gum line. Once your teeth sink into the putty, press it once (only once, we don't want double bite marks) and firmly all the way through until you feel your teeth come in light contact with the bottom of the tray. You'll feel the putty coming up out of the tray, oozing over your teeth and reaching up to your gums.
If done properly, the putty comes out of the back and over the sides of the tray as you bite down. You should feel it over your gums at the back of your mouth. For your upper teeth, put your lip over the tray, and press above your gums (for the upper tray) so the putty gets an imprint of your gums. The same for your low tray where you place your lower lip over the front, and then press all the way around.
Once your tray is fully seated—you feel the putty on your gums and your teeth have come in light contact with the bottom of the tray—don’t move or adjust the tray until it’s time to remove it. If you wiggle the tray, your 3D molds will look to have squiggly teeth, etc. Remember, the impression should fit around your teeth very snug since your aligners will be snug as well.
After 2 minutes and 30 seconds have passed, remove your tray in an 'up and down' rocking motion. Apply pressure so that it loosens slowly, and it'll pop off by itself.
If you have any questions about taking impressions of your at home, go on our chat box online at www.newsmilelife.ca. We're excited to get you started!
There are two sorts of orthodontic medicines: traditional braces and clear aligners.
Traditional Braces
Supports are unquestionably the most popular orthodontic procedure. Know that supports have changed a lot lately and are presently more circumspect.
Little metal or porcelain sections are attached to the front of the teeth and interconnected by a curve wire, the snugness of which may differ, to steadily move the teeth as per a foreordained arrangement. This arrangement applies slight however consistent weight on the teeth to move them into their ideal position. The wire should be supplanted a few times with a thicker wire to keep moving the teeth until the ideal outcomes are acquired.
Supports right the situation of the teeth both independently and at the same time.
When the supports have been introduced, they must be balanced so as to keep up the right level of strain. Ordinary follow-up arrangements (each six to about two months by and large) are needed to permit the expert to screen the treatment.
Braces and dental cleanliness
Wearing supports requires astounding oral cleanliness. If you don't mind read our wellbeing tip regarding this matter.
Clear aligners
Clear aligners are an answer for patients looking for a more careful orthodontic treatment than ordinary supports, as they don't utilize sections or wires - they're actually invisible when worn.
Clear aligners are a cutting edge and close undetectable strategy for adjusting mild to moderate orthodontic issues. They adjust teeth similarly as supports do, yet utilizing a straightforward, removable clear aligner.
Much the same as with customary supports, change arrangements are commonly every six to about two months. Nonetheless, clear teeh straightening aligners are changed like clockwork by and large, in light of your dental specialist's proposals. Each aligner gradually modifies your teeth as per the arrangement settled on by your dental specialist, by applying the necessary degree of weight.
As a rule, orthodontic treatment utilizing clear aligners is quicker than with customary supports. Since persistent consistence is basic to the achievement of the treatment, patients must be restrained about wearing their aligners consistently to abstain from dragging out the treatment or trading off the outcomes.
Treatment with clear aligners includes making a virtual model of your teeth with a PC program to give all of you of the means in question, from the underlying situation of the teeth up to the last wanted outcome.
There's a lot of benefits to choose clear aligners. There's oral cleanliness since they're removable, and you can brush your teeth normally as you straighten your teeth. Invisible aligners are also more comfortable since metal and/or ceramic braces can cut the insides of your mouth and tongue. The comfort level is more or less the same since you are shifting teeth to a straighter position, and there will be mild pain/tenderness as you go through your teeth straightening treatment. The last, and most evident benefit is that nobody can tell you're wearing them after you get used to speaking with them on. For those that only want to wear aligners in the evening, there is now the option for Night Aligners, that are removed completely in the day, and only worn at home and while sleeping. As orthodontic technology progresses, new advances will continue to find more discreet, effective and convenient ways to straighten teeth.
View clear aligner pricing plans here - 75% less cost than traditional braces. Affordable clear aligners are now available to be delivered to your door.
Plaque can ruin a beautiful smile and leave your mouth a breeding ground for bacteria. Plaque is a soft filmy bacteria that, when mixed with saliva, can harden into tartar and lead to gum disease and cavities. While brushing and flossing help keep plaque down, there are some natural remedies that can help, too.
Here are four home remedies to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
This technique has been around for a long time. Coconut oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. It is also high in lauric acid. Take one tablespoon of melted coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. When you’re finished, spit the oil out (don’t gargle or swallow it) and brush your teeth like normal. It’s best to do this in the morning before you’ve eaten.
Basically, the coconut oil pulls the bad stuff (plaque, bacteria, etc…) from your mouth, which is why you should always spit it out. If coconut oil isn’t your thing, warm sesame oil will also work.
This pantry staple is surprisingly beneficial for your oral health. It’s also an inexpensive way to keep your mouth healthy and clean. Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and reduces the amount of bacteria in your mouth. It can also help naturally whiten your teeth. Just don’t use it too often. Keep it to once or twice a week so it doesn’t damage your tooth enamel.
There are several ways you can use baking soda to remove plaque from your teeth:
This prickly plant has amazing antimicrobial properties that are great for fighting bacteria. It helps kill the bacteria that causes bad breath and plaque. Take a whole aloe vera leaf and remove the pulp. Rub the pulp on your teeth and gums and allow it to remain there for about 10 minutes. Rinse with cold water. Do this twice a day for the best results.
This isn’t just for salad dressings anymore. Vinegar can help protect your enamel and fight plaque build-up in your mouth. Mix two teaspoons of vinegar and one teaspoon of salt in a half a cup of warm water. Swish the mixture in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out.
All of these methods will also work with your NewSmile® aligners as well. Using a mild cleaning solution and a soft toothbrush will ensure your aligners look great while they straighten your teeth. Removing plaque from your mouth is easy with these simple, natural ingredients!
Personal insecurity about appearance is a complicated and harsh reality. We often scrutinize ourselves in the mirror, fixating on imperfections that others likely don’t even notice. Watching movies, we see those flawless Hollywood smiles and think, “If only my smile looked like that.” During a job interview, the thought might cross your mind: “What if they notice my teeth and it affects my chances?” People will say, “It’s what’s inside that matters,” and while that’s true, some things just feel unchangeable.
Balding? Sorry, pal. Freckles? Embrace them! Birthmark? It’s part of you. But … what if there was something that bugged you that was easy to change. Something that you can do that you’d wish you’d done years earlier? Something like closing that gap in your teeth that has affected your self esteem for so long? You might see gap-toothed celebs Jack Black, or Madonna, or Woody Harrelson and it makes you obsess over your own tooth gap, wondering “how do people see me?” In France, teeth with gaps are called “lucky teeth” or “happy teeth.” But cultures differ, and for some Americans, having a gap between their teeth makes them anything but happy. In the majority of cases, taking action to close a tooth gap is well worth it, if it improves a patient’s confidence. These days, having a gap-free smile is easily, painlessly and affordably done, without any health risks. Here, we explore the pros and cons of each type of “gap-closing” alternative.
If you see your reflection and that gap between your teeth bothers you every time, placing a negative effect on your self confidence, it makes sense to assess your options for fixing it. Moving on with your life in this way may be more realistic than you think. Assessment starts with knowing what teeth gaps are, and why they form.
The formal name for a gap between two teeth is a diastema, and in humans, this term is most commonly used to describe a space between the two front incisors. Diastema can happen in children and adults, and sometimes the gap can close by itself as a child grows older. There are a few factors that can cause this gap to form, and sometimes a person’s diastema can be caused by more than one condition. Heredity does play a role too, so perhaps you can thank your parents for the gap that has drawn you to this blog post.
First, gaps may form between teeth due to the teeth being too small for the jawbone. That means the teeth have room to space out. Second, there is the tissue that borders your gum line and front teeth. This labial frenulum can overgrow between the teeth, causing a gap to form. Third, teeth gaps can happen because of habits. Thumb-sucking in children pressurizes the front teeth, pushing them outward and apart; and in children and adults, tongue-thrusting can be the cause of a gap between teeth. Tongue thrusting is associated with the swallowing reflex. Some people, when swallowing, press their tongue against the front teeth rather than the roof of the mouth. Finally, gum disease can be a cause for diastema. This is where inflammation affects the gums and tissue that support the teeth.
If your gap is caused by gum disease, the cause should most certainly should not be left untreated. Only once gum disease is remedied — bacteria eliminated and bone health addressed — should action be taken to reduce the gap between your teeth. Most often though, a tooth gap is merely a cosmetic issue that does not pose any health concerns. Your toothbrush can access the gap, food doesn’t get caught as easily, tartar buildup is reduced. It can be ok.
But there is always the question of self esteem. Everyone should feel completely confident in flashing a broad, beaming smile. If the gap between your teeth brings you down and inhibits your ability to communicate, smile, interact and feel confident — considering ways to fix your gap is advised.
Technology has come a long way. Absolutely, you can fix a gap in your teeth without using braces. Zac Efron did it. These days, there are multiple ways to fix your tooth gap. They are:
Some procedures and solutions are more invasive, painful, or expensive than others. Some are completely painless. Here is what you need to know about how each of these dental options can fix the gap between your teeth.
Braces used to be the go-to for straightening and shifting teeth, but now they are something of a last resort. Braces apply pressure over a long period of time, to draw teeth in the desired direction and align the jawbones. It’s an extremely effective method of fixing your gap but it hurts! And it’s expensive. There are better options because this is a little more than what most people with a simple diastema need.
Similarly, implants are used to fill in a single-tooth size gap. An enamel tooth is inserted into the bone or attached to surrounding teeth. An implant is the highest-cost procedure in our list of gap-fixes, and is not something most people with a small gap need to worry about.
Here we have a procedure normally reserved for repairing chipped or broken teeth. It’s effective, and affordable, but these days, not really common for fixing a gap between the front teeth. The problem with bonding is that the bonding agent is not entirely stain-proof.
A crown is a porcelain shell that serves a cosmetic purpose, as well as being a way to repair a cracked tooth. They can also be added to teeth to create an even bite, and being porcelain, it will last a lifetime. A veneer, on the other hand, is a thin shell of porcelain that is bonded to the teeth after a little bit of enamel is removed. These are expensive but popular, especially now that the veneer quality is high. Customer satisfaction is usually a given, but one issue with veneers is that it requires a professional, reputable dentist to carry out the dental work.
These are bands placed around two teeth, which draw the teeth together when worn in bed each night. And they do work, and don’t cost much once an initial check for suitability is done by the dentist. There are limitations, however. The gap cannot be too big, and your other teeth must be straight, or dental issues could happen when the bands start to take effect. Larger gaps can take up to six months to close.
Clear retainers are the best way to affordably and safely fix a gap between the teeth. There is really no downside to an Invisalign style retainer. These are a relatively new alternative to braces but their popularity is surging because the product gets great results. With a high-quality provider such as NewSmile®, an impression kit is sent to a customer’s home, and once the impression of the teeth is made, sent back to the retainer provider. NewSmile® specialists then assess whether the Invisalign product is suitable for each unique customer, and if so, plastic molds are sent and worn by the customer. The customer changes out the retainer as teeth move and the gap closes, for however long is necessary. Kids — and adults who have put up with a gapped smile for far longer than they care to think about — love clear aligners because they are invisible, removable at meal times, and work fast. Clear aligners are a low-cost fix, and in almost all cases, highly successful.
If you have been withholding your smile for years because of a gap between your teeth and are curious about what you’d look like with a gleaming, gap-free smile, there is no reason not to try Invisalign style retainers from a provider such as NewSmile®. You don’t need to wonder about how to fix a gap in your front teeth without braces. Clear aligners are affordable, effective, and no-one will even know you are wearing one — the first they’ll know of it is when you reveal a Hollywood smile you finally feel confident in wearing.
Ready to start wearing a new, happy smile you will love? Why wait? Order an Impression Kit, or see if you're a fit with our NewSmile® smile assessment now to find out if clear aligners will work for you.
Resources
https://www.healthline.com/health/diastema#diastema
https://www.ranker.com/list/celebrities-with-gap-teeth/celebrity-lists
One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is whether NewSmile® aligners are painful. While traditional metal braces can cause discomfort and pain, NewSmile® aligners are designed to be much more comfortable. Although you might experience some discomfort, it is generally much less than the pain associated with metal braces.
But that doesn’t mean that NewSmile® doesn’t hurt. When moving teeth and straightening the bite, there's bound to be some pain. How much does NewSmile® hurt? And what are some ways to relieve that pain? Here’s what you need to know about NewSmile®, the pain level, and how to alleviate any pain you might feel during your treatment:
Do NewSmile® Clear Aligners Hurt?
NewSmile® clear aligners will cause some discomfort. While everyone is different and will feel varying amounts of pain (some will feel more pain than others), they are less painful than traditional metal braces. The good news is that the pain fades once your teeth adjust to wearing the aligners. Some of the sources of pain are from the soreness that comes from the aligners pressing against the teeth, and the pain that comes with having the aligners in your mouth.
With traditional metal braces, some of the pain you feel comes from brackets rubbing against the interior of the mouth, and placement of the wire. Especially during the first few weeks of treatment, before the mouth has developed callouses to combat sensitivity, the pressing, rubbing, and scratching of the metal components against your mouth can be very uncomfortable. The same can be said for NewSmile® aligners, but on a smaller scale. The edges of the aligners, while not sharp, can be irritating to your gums and the insides of your lips as your mouth gets used to wearing them. After starting your treatment, the first couple of weeks will allow your mouth to adjust to the feeling of wearing your aligners and will develop the necessary callouses to prevent irritation. By the time you need to switch out your first set of aligners for the next stage, your mouth is likely to be fully adjusted and you won’t experience any peripheral pain.
This doesn’t mean, of course, that your NewSmile® will be completely pain free. Because the whole point of NewSmile® is to shift your teeth into a straighter, healthier smile, the aligners apply pressure on the teeth so they move into their new places. The soreness from moving your teeth may feel extreme during the first few days after putting on a new set of aligners, but the pain will decrease since your teeth have shifted accordingly, and the cycle will repeat when it’s time to put in the next set. Few NewSmile® wearers would describe this sensation as pain, per se. For most, it’s simply discomfort you get used with a few weeks of adjustment.
For pain that feel like a poking sensation from your aligners, this is pain caused by rough or sharp edges on your aligners. If you run your tongue along the edge of the aligner and you get cut, ensure you file that area by rounding any thin and sharp areas. Pain caused by improper finishing of the aligners are completely avoidable and can be easily fixed by using the nail file we provide with your aligners.
For some wearers, going through the pain for the few days each month is the best way to handle the discomfort. Again, most find they only experience minor to mild discomfort for the first few days after changing to a new set of aligners, and if the discomfort is concerning to you, we recommend speaking with your dentist or doctor. For those that have more chronic discomfort, here are some methods that may help:
Pain killers are a good place to start. Most people have their preferred pain killer and know how much to take. Depending on the type of pain, some may work better than others. For example, if pain during the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners are caused by inflammation and irritation from aligners being pressed against your teeth, a pain killer used to reduce inflammation would work best.
On the other hand, if you feel pain when tensing your jaw or grinding your teeth, a pain killer that relaxes muscles may be a better choice. Also, a little bit of pressure can help to relieve tension in your teeth, so don’t be afraid to chew on something. Cold or hot drinks may also help to soothe aches in the teeth.
Sure, your mother might have been urging you to smile throughout your life, but did you know that there are significant benefits to smiling? And these benefits aren't limited to those who see the world through rose-colored glasses.
Extensive scientific research supports the health benefits of smiling. It's quite remarkable! Studies conducted by experts in psychology, medicine, and science have consistently shown that smiling can strengthen relationships, boost your mood, and even contribute to a longer life.
If you’re still thinking the concept is too good to be true, check out our list of in-depth evidence that shows how smiling can actually improve your health.
If you experience high blood pressure, something as easy as smiling and laughing could help bring levels down. Who knew? A 2009 review shows how a few giggles will increase your heart rate and then cause a moment of muscle relaxation, which decreases heart rate and blood pressure. This reduces the risk of developing heart disease. So get to laughing!
Even if you have to fake a smile, your body will feel relief when you do so. In 2015, a psychology study showed that smiling can lower heart rate in a moment of stress. Therefore, if you smile while doing a stressful task, your body will maintain a lower heart rate and blood pressure.
The “fake it until you make it” idea really rings true here. No need to turn to expensive massages or comedy shows to improve your mood—just putting on a smile will give you an immediate boost. A study in 2010 found that smiling can increase positive thoughts and make you feel better about your situation.
The health benefits of smiling aren’t just about you—smiling can enhance relationships and therefore pass on the health benefits to those around you. In 2014, a study showed that people who smile are more likable than those who don’t smile. This helps improve relationships and increase positivity between couples.
If you’re smiling in the workplace, you’ll feel happier there too. That happiness will pay off too—studies show that happy employees are more productive, energetic, and more likely to be promoted. So if you’re looking for a raise, you just may be able to smile your way there.
Yes, the claims on this one are sound. Smiling can actually contribute to a longer life! Researchers who analyzed the smiles of Major League Baseball players from 1952 found that those who had even a partial smile in photos lived two years longer than players who didn’t smile. And those who had big smiles lived an average of seven years longer than those without smiles.
If you’re tired of popping the painkillers, give smiling a try. A 2012 study found social laughter to be powerful medicine, helping to increase pain thresholds and create a higher pain tolerance. Though the pain doesn’t technically go away, the body’s ability to feel the pain lowers. It’s like magic!
Along with the health benefit of reducing stress, smiling can send out signalling molecules to the brain that fights off illness. This means you’ll have a stronger immune system and get sick less often. So, start practicing your best smile when cold season comes around! A 2015 study even found that recent postpartum women had a stronger immune system when they participated in laughter therapy.
Whether you’re looking for love or just a friend to hang out with, try smiling to attract others. Smiling is contagious, and since it brings so many health benefits, those who see you smiling will start to smile and reap the benefits as well. Though the feelings may be subconscious, your companions will like you more when they see a smile on your face.
So now you know a variety of ways that smiling can benefit your health. But how exactly does smiling help you live longer and healthier? Assuming you’re not interested in reading the nitty gritty details of all these scientific studies, we’ll break things down for you in simpler terms.
Every time you smile, your brain receives neural messages. Neuropeptides are one of the helpful, minuscule molecules that send positive vibes to the brain. These molecules allow neurons to communicate and tell your body when the brain is feeling any emotion, from happiness to fear or excitement.
Smiling also releases neurotransmitters, including dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin. These are some of the chemicals released during exercise, sex, and breastfeeding, and they are a powerful way of bringing out positive emotions and creating human bonds.
Though forced and even fake smiles can amazingly provide similar health benefits to a real smile, studies show that authentic smiles are best. So what is a “real” smile? A true smile is scientifically known as a Duchenne smile and is constituted by a smile that causes the cheeks and eyes to raise. Smiling with just the mouth can bring benefits, but Duchenne smiles are more effective in bringing all the life-elongated benefits of smiling.
If you aren’t already a habitual smiler, it’s time to start practicing. Men are especially prone to smile less than women, and adults smile less than children. So there’s plenty of room to improve on the smiling habit, no matter who you are.
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