What Can Braces Do to My Smile?

As we approach the end of the first week of 2023, I wish everyone a Happy New Year, one full of dreams coming true worthy of beautiful smiles!

Today we want to talk about orthodontic treatment in general, whether it be braces, Invisalign or Clear Correct and what it can do to a smile.

Well aligned teeth are the basis to any beautiful smile. By well aligned we don’t necessarily mean perfectly aligned. Well aligned means that the teeth can range in position from perfectly straight with a good stable bite, to straight enough also with a good stable bite. The common denominator here is a stable bite.

Here’s why we seek a stable bite from orthodontic treatment as opposed to just straight teeth. Without a stable bite, straight teeth or teeth that have had work done will not be functional and may also be painful. Every time we bite or try to chew, the teeth will shift in unusual positions causing strain on the muscles and joints, which leads to discomfort, pain and even permanent damage. We use braces to achieve a healthy bite first and foremost. If this coincides with a perfect alignment, then that’s the best outcome. So why wouldn’t it?

Here’s why. Sometimes there are discrepancies between tooth sizes and shapes. It could be that the ratios between teeth is not ideal, or some teeth are missing, or even that some habits have damaged teeth such as nail biting. The result in these cases after braces or orthodontic treatment is not a perfectly straight alignment. This is where your dentist should have a discussion with you about the next steps.

As long as braces have produced a good stable bite, then any work to perfect the smile such as whitening, veneers or bonding and implants should be safe to stay in place and last without damage. The fun can then begin!

After braces are off, we can plan the smile digitally or with a wax mockup. We then would know where veneers or bonding are needed to adjust tooth size or form, and even out the smile further. Sometime braces produce a beautiful smile that we do not need to touch the teeth after orthodontic treatment. Shy of a little whitening perhaps, not much is usually needed to perfect the smile following braces.