Cosmetic Dentistry

Compare Orthodontic Treatments

If you are hoping to improve your dental alignment using orthodontic treatment, it can be daunting to figure out what treatment is best for your situation. That is why our Manhattan Beach cosmetic dentists are here to help!

Keep reading to get some facts on some of the most popular orthodontic options available!

Traditional Braces

What it is: using metal brackets and wires, our dental team applies torque and pressure to your teeth in order to move them into better alignment.

What it can do: conventional braces are a tried and true dental solution for a reason. This treatment can straighten crooked teeth, close gaps in your smile, improve your bite, and widen your smile.

How long does it take: generally, it takes about 18 to 24 months for people to see full results.

Six Month Smiles

What it is: this treatment focuses on the teeth that are most visible when you smile. Our team straighten and perfects these teeth using metal brackets and wires, so that your smile looks better proportioned and aligned.

What it can do: Six Month Smiles is really designed to improve dental aesthetics and minor overbites/underbites. This treatment is not used to achieve major structural dental changes.

How long does it take: as the name suggests, the average treatment time is around 6 to 9 months.

Invisalign

What it is: rather than moving teeth with metal brackets and wires, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners to shift your teeth. During the treatment process, you will actually wear a series of aligners, switching to a new aligner every two weeks or so.

What it can do: Invisalign is appropriate for many dental patients who want to improve dental aesthetics and structure.

How long does it take: the average Invisalign treatment duration is about 18 months; your exact timeline will depend on the state of your smile and the results you want to achieve.

If you want to learn more about all of your orthodontic options, our Manhattan Beach cosmetic dentists are here to help. We look forward to speaking with you!

Dr. Erick Gutierrez

Recent Posts

How Long Will it Take for Gingivitis to Heal?

Gingivitis is among the earliest stages of gum disease, it is characterized by symptoms such…

1 month ago

Is Teeth Whitening with Cavities Safe?

Teeth whitening is one of the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatments for improving a smile,…

1 month ago

Early Cavity Detection: Why Dental Cleanings are Recommended

Cavities can sneak up on you without any obvious signs—until it becomes too late to…

2 months ago

How Does Invisalign Affect My Face Shape and Structure?

When considering Invisalign, many patients think about straighter teeth and a more attractive smile—but did…

2 months ago

Bad Breath Can Have Other Causes Beyond Hygiene

Bad breath, or halitosis, is often blamed on poor oral hygiene—and while brushing and flossing…

3 months ago

When It Comes to Oral Care, Remember to Hydrate

When you think of good oral care, brushing, flossing, and dental checkups likely come to…

3 months ago