Often patients come to the office asking to have the spaces in between their teeth closed. Many relate that they do not want to go through metal braces while others specifically ask for them. In dentistry it is helpful that we have many options for patients with different needs.
At your free consultation with Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon and Dr. Smith they will detail your options and help you figure out the best one to choose.
Below are 4 ways that we are able to close the gaps in your teeth:
Bonding
Bonding is a process in which we use a composite resin filling material that adheres to the teeth to close the space. This works well especially when the space is fairly small. Often we do not even need to numb patients for this since there is no pain whatsoever. Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon and Dr. Smith simply roughen the surfaces of the teeth to create more surface area for the adhesion of the bonding material. Time-wise, this procedure takes about an hour, depending on how many spaces need closed.
When done correctly by a cosmetic dentist, this technique looks very natural and is long-lasting. Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon and Dr. Smith have a thorough attention to detail and large knowledge of bonding materials and artistry that create expert work.
If the space is too large for bonding, Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon, and Dr. Smith will let you know. If bonding is attempted on spaces that are too large then the teeth will look fake and unnatural. If this is the case do not worry because the doctor will let you know the best alternative option to close your gap.
Veneers
Veneers are another great option to close gaps in between the teeth. Veneers are made of porcelain and last longer than bonding since they are made of a stronger material. They do not chip or stain and look very natural when done by a cosmetic dentist. Another wonderful aspect of veneers is the fact that they will not discolor as time goes on. In only two visits you can close your gap (s) with immediate, dramatic, and long-lasting veneers. Porcelain veneers are more expensive treatment than direct bonding, but in many cases, they are the better way to go.
Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon and Dr. Smith will study your smile and advise you if this is the best option. If veneers are best for you then you are in great hands in our office. Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon and Dr. Smith have completed thousands of hours of continuing education specifically geared towards porcelain veneers and creating smile makeovers. Check out our smile gallery for some of the fantastic work done here. You can schedule a free consultation by calling our office so they can evaluate your smile.
Invisalign
Another option to close spaces in between your teeth is with clear aligner therapy known as Invisalign.
These are clear plastic trays that are designed to move the teeth just like braces; however, they are a lot more cosmetic and more comfortable. Often people cannot even tell that you are wearing anything. The trays physically move the teeth so then there are no spaces in between them. Another benefit is that nothing artificial needs placed over top the teeth. One note to consider is that treatment time is longer than veneers and bonding, usually around 10 months. This however is significantly shorter than the time most patients spend in braces so the time does fly by quickly and easily for patients. If you are interested in Invisalign call to come in so Dr. Cirka, Dr. Jeon and Dr. Smith can evaluate your teeth and let you know how long treatment will take and if this is the best option for you.
Braces
Traditional braces are another option you can use to close spaces between your teeth. If you do not think that you would be compliant with the Invisalign trays then the best option for you to close your gap(s) might be braces.
Dr. Cirka, Dr. Mimi Jeon, and Dr. Stephanie Smith work with excellent orthodontists in the Philadelphia area that will be able to have an additional consultation with you to go over treatment with traditional braces.
Newer ceramic braces are more esthetic than older metal braces and there are many new techniques, such as speed ligation brackets, that can help move the treatment along more quickly.
After either Invisalign or braces it is extremely important to wear your retainers because teeth have a memory and want to go back to where they used to be positioned. If you have questions about retainer therapy or need new retainers let us know.
We look forward to seeing you for a consultation. Call us at 215.568.6222 to schedule.