How can orthodontics, i.e. braces and aligners, help to alter the anatomy of my smile?

Doctor's Answer

The anatomy of the smile takes into account of the:

  • Face
  • Lips
  • Jaws
  • Size
  • Shapes
  • Colour
  • Position of teeth

But, most importantly is what the patient actually wants to see.

In the right cases and with the right conditions, braces and aligners are an excellent treatment choice, however, they can only alter the position of teeth.

Braces and aligners straighten teeth helps by shifting them to a more pleasing arrangement. The ultimate goal is to attain straight teeth. However, they cannot:

  • Move bone
  • Predict how your smile will look
  • The shape of your lips
  • Speech issues

These methods only allow for straightening of teeth and are unable to change:

  • Tooth size
  • Shape
  • Colour

In order to change your jaw or bone position, this can only be done through Orthognathic Surgery i.e. Jaw Surgery.

Teeth whitening treatments can be used to improve the colour of the teeth.

While changing the size and shape of the teeth can be done through bonding processes, such as:

  • Porcelain veneers
  • Composite veneers
  • Resin laminates

The size of teeth can also be adjusted through gum contouring or crown lengthening.

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