Cosmetic Dentistry to Straighten Your Teeth By Danny O'Keefe D.D.S. on January 25, 2016

Evenly aligned teeth are important; not just for your appearance, but for your long-term oral health, as well. Crooked teeth are harder to clean. Food particles can easily be trapped between overlapping teeth, which will increase your risk for decay and gum disease. In addition, a misaligned bite can put uneven force on your jaw joints. In turn, you can experience facial pain and dental erosion. You may even develop temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. To prevent these problems, Dr. Danny O’Keefe offers several cosmetic dentistry options so you can enjoy the benefits of straighter teeth. In addition to straightening all of your teeth, he can also perform “instant orthodontics” to address one or two crooked teeth. To learn more about your teeth straightening treatment options, contact our Jackson, MS practice today.

Invisalign®: A Comprehensive, Effective Option

Invisalign® may be appropriate if you want to straighten most or all of your teeth. It can also be effective if you have malocclusion, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. If you choose Invisalign®, Dr. O’Keefe will take digital impressions of your upper and lower teeth. He will use these impressions and advanced computer software, to design a set of aligner trays. After the Invisalign® lab fabricates your aligners, you will begin wearing them 20 to 22 hours a day. The trays will change shape as you progress throughout the series. In this way, they will place a slight force on your teeth to gradually straighten your smile and improve your bite alignment.  

The Benefits of Invisalign®

Invisalign® can be just as effective as traditional braces, and it can address many of the same orthodontic issues. However, the state-of-the-art trays are far more discreet than bulky wires and brackets. Most people will not be able to tell you are wearing orthodontic appliances, meaning you can straighten your teeth without feeling self-conscious. Invisalign® trays are also more comfortable than braces. The smooth trays will not irritate your lips, and the aligners will place less force on your teeth. Finally, Invisalign® is designed for your convenience. Because you can remove the trays, you will not typically face any dietary restrictions, and it will be easier to brush and floss your teeth. 

Instant Orthodontics

Dr. O’Keefe also offers porcelain veneers and dental bonding to instantly enhance your smile. Keep in mind that these treatments are not appropriate if your entire bite is misaligned. On the other hand, if you have one or two crooked, rotated, or gapped teeth, you may be a candidate for instant orthodontics. Porcelain veneers are wafer-like porcelain shells that will adhere directly to the front of your teeth. Once in place, they will fully conceal blemishes, close small gaps, and reshape your teeth. With our CEREC® system, Dr. O’Keefe can supply same-day veneers.

Dental bonding can also be a good option, especially if you are concerned about your budget. Dr. O’Keefe will coat your teeth in composite resin, carefully selected to match the shade of your surrounding teeth. He will shape the material to hide misalignment, reshape your teeth, and close gaps. When he has sculpted the material and you are both happy with the effects, he will cure and polish the composite. Bonding does not last as long as veneers, but you can receive touch-up treatments, if desired. 

Schedule a Cosmetic Consultation

With so many treatment options, there is no reason to live with crooked teeth. Contact us today to book a consultation and to find out which cosmetic treatment may be appropriate for you.