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How to Straighten Teeth at Home Easily Without Braces

Being blessed with naturally straight teeth is something that not all people can boast of.

More often than not, people have teeth that’s a little crooked or perhaps misaligned. And when you want your teeth straightened, the best option is always to see an orthodontist and get braces. But if you want to know how to straighten teeth at home, then we have some helpful information here.

Like many things that you can do by yourself, it is actually possible to get straight teeth without braces.​

straight teeth without braces

Straightening the teeth is possible even without undergoing any orthodontic procedure or the expertise of your dentist – just keep in mind that this is not always the safest and most effective option.

Understanding the Idea Behind Braces

First, you have to understand that the idea behind braces is the gentle applying of pressure. The braces are designed to slowly place pressure on each tooth, eventually shifting it to the position or alignment that the dentist sees fit. Knowing that this is how braces work, you could try actually using your tongue to slowly push your teeth into the direction you want. The idea is to apply the pressure daily for an extended period of time, and if you have enough patience you might eventually see results. 

Of course, applying pressure to your teeth in this way would probably only work if you really develop it as a habit. It would also depend on how many teeth you’re unhappy with. If there’s just one tooth sticking out in the wrong direction that you want to correct, then this could work.

Among other online answers to, how to straighten your teeth at home, we found suggestions to apply pressure using your fingers and in some cases even dental floss. Some people use dental floss to tie the teeth together and again apply pressure to move the teeth around.

You have to be really careful about do-it-yourself home treatments though because if you do it the wrong way, you could cause some long-term problems to the teeth and gums. You can easily apply too much pressure which can make your teeth become loose. 

However, this also does not mean that home remedies don’t work, as some have done it quite successfully. You should always remember that teeth are pretty movable and positions can shift with just the right amount of pressure, so you can really influence alignment. On the other hand, you can actually make things worse.  

Using Something Other Than Braces

Depending on how stubborn your teeth are, sometimes these simple home remedies won’t work as effectively or as fast as you need them to. Sometimes you need the help of some implements. Here are answers to how to get straight teeth without braces:

  • Clear plastic removable aligners -This is something you can buy over the counter * and unlike braces which are permanently stuck on your teeth, you can easily remove these aligners every so often. Because they’re also ‘clear’ and invisible, you don’t have to worry about aesthetics. It’s simply like a mouth guard that aligns your teeth the way you want but doesn't encumber it the way braces do. With aligners, which you can remove during meal times, you can eat what you want when you want to, unlike braces that tend to restrict you.
  • Retainers – If the condition of your misaligned teeth is too severe to be cured by just aligners, but you still don’t want braces, then you can perhaps use retainers *. Retainers work in the same way that braces and aligners do, except instead of all the complicated wiring of braces you just work with one big wire guiding the teeth for the upper jaw and another one for the lower. Retainers should be measured properly and fitted with springs for you to be able to take them home and wear them at your convenience.

Consulting Your Orthodontist

Even if you want to straighten your teeth at home, at your own convenience, and without the use of braces, you have to remember that the best person who knows how to straighten your teeth is your orthodontist. Your dentist will examine your teeth and know what the best option is for aligning it. This does not automatically mean braces, and if you insist for other options you can really ask your dentist.

Getting your orthodontist to check your teeth will also ensure that whatever treatment you choose is not detrimental to your health in the long run. It’s always a case to case basis when it comes to teeth, and this is why you need an expert to look at your situation and give you the best options available.

Even when you opt to go for aligners or retainers, you will need your dentist to check your teeth and confirm whether or not the solution is the best one for your situation. Some measurements will also need to be done, because the aligning systems have to be custom-fit for them to work properly. Of course not all dentists offer all treatments, so you would want to get a second opinion as well.

Maintenance

As part of the human body and because they are always subjected to organic matter because of the food that you eat, your teeth are actually really prone to damage. You also use your teeth to chew your food every day, so even if you already had it straightened or if the aligning methods already worked, you still have to be wary about maintenance.

The thing with our teeth is that they tend to have a ‘memory’ and each tooth will push its way back to where it was originally located. This is why when you’re wearing retainers after braces, you need to keep it on for a period of time. The same goes for other alignment methods and interventions. At the same time, you also need to be proactive about caring for your teeth because it’s not just about straightening – it’s about overall dental care.

If you liked our article, please share it and use the comment section below to tell us about your experiences or ask any questions. Thank You!

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  • Although it’s a cheaper alternative I wouldn’t recommend it. There’s a reason we have medically trained orthodontists. I think if you want amazing results for straight teeth then an orthodontist is the way to go if you are considering any form of braces.

    • Mac says:

      Yeah, but it sucks to spend thousands of dollars on an orthodontists only to wind up with straighter, yet still noticeably crooked, teeth after wearing braces for 2 years. There are a lot less competent and a lot more greedy doctors out there now then there were 10 years ago. Just do some research and pick out whatever sounds best for you.

      • Cam says:

        Are there really less competent and more greedy doctors nowadays, Mac? Where on earth did you find these facts? I’d really like to know. I’m sure your statement is totally based in fact! And yes, I’m being facetious.

      • Calling out bs says:

        Really are there fewer competent and more greedy doctors out there now? I’d love to fact check that statement. Can I see your sources? Oh, you have none? Shocker.

        • Daniel says:

          Hi,

          Please be patient to every comment here. We’re all humans and have the right to express our opinion and for a mistake. Thank you!

        • anonymous says:

          Many of us assume there are more greedy doctors out there now, and we can assume it without any basis. We dont want to pay for stuff we can do ourselves. Shocker.

  • elizabel says:

    People said that my teeth arent straight that hurt my feelings

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Elizabel!
      I’m really sorry to hear that. Do you feel the people want to hurt you without relation to your teeth? Do they say it by friendly way? Anyway the best is to visit your orthodontist (or dentist) and ask her/him this question so you’ll get the professional answer. Alternatively you can send her/him a picture of yourself smiling. I suppose the question is about your front teeth. Tell us your experinces here after these steps please. Thank you and take care!

      • John says:

        My teeth are just oh my god their just messed up real bad and my parents are always working no one could take me to the dentist, no family members could take me , nobody ! Ima go to highschool this year and I feel so uncomfortable speaking to girls and people other than my friends . I need help !!!!

        • Daniel says:

          Hey, John!

          Thank you for your question.

          Since you are still not yet in high school, you have to be very careful with what help you solicit. First, find the time to talk to your parents. As a minor, you will need them to authorize any treatment from a dentist. Try explaining to them how important this is for you. Once they authorize the treatment you will most likely be able to go to the appointments on your own. So it should not take much of their time.

          If you are having problems with your parents, whether it be cost or time, visit your school counselor. They will have information on who to talk to in order to get aid for straightening your teeth.

          Hope it helps. Wish you success in your orthodontic journey and perfect smile!

  • Amanda Wheeler says:

    I have a question I have four or five gaps in my first teeth spaces how can I get them fix ?

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Amanda!

      Thank you for your question. There are few possible solutions to that problem. It depends on sizes of your gaps and the reasons for their appearing. But in any case I recommend you to look for a board accredited cosmetic dentist in your area who has trained and passed a series of examinations on the cosmetic dentistry. She or he will determine the reasons for the spaces and may refer you to an orthodontist (specialist in treatment with braces) or periodontist (if your spaces are the result of periodontal disease). Think through what you’re willing to invest in cost and time to accomplish that. You should also be aware that since these procedures are typically cosmetic, your dental insurance probably will not pay for them.

      Sometimes if the gap was caused by a mismatch between the permanent teeth and the jaw size, the spaces can be expected to remain throughout life. I hope that’s not your case.

      If you have a big spaces because you’re missing teeth, you might need extensive dental repair. This might include dental implants, a bridge or a partial denture.

      If your gaps are medium or small, your dentist may suggest widening them using crowns, veneers (porcelain shells that actually fit over your teeth) or bonding (filling the gaps with dental material). If you want a quick simple and cheaper solution, bonding is the best. If you want perfect results, choose porcelain veneers (more expensive).

      If you thought about cheapest solutions like gap bands so in large gaps it pulls the teeth together and it may create a space on the opposite side of the tooth. It’s not likely the best solution. Those bands could also potentially cause damage to the gums if they slip down under the tissue.

      The ideal treatment is to get braces. You will probably have to wear a retainers once you complete a treatment so that gaps won’t re-open.

      Hope it helps.
      Thank you!

  • Alisha says:

    Hi i have a snaggle tooth on the left side of my mouth the tooth stivks out drastically and i hate it! I wanted braces but my dentist doesnt agree so therefore im going to have to try home remodies? What can i do which isnt expensive and will work quick?

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Alisha!

      As I understand you have misaligned tooth but not broken. It’s hard to understand your case without actually seeing the whole picture. Why doesn’t your dentist agree to braces? What is her/his explanation? You can go for braces that are almost invisible, it’s called Invisalign. But I don’t think home remedies can help here. In any case I recommend to make a complete orthodontic evaluation before starting any treatment. There are few possible solutions exist without braces, like composite resin veneers, crowns, or in the worst case scenario, have your tooth extracted in case this is an extra tooth and not your permanent canine that erupted high because of crowding. I think this article on snaggle teeth will help you understand better.

      Thank you!

  • Lexi says:

    Hey, I have a small gap between my 2 front teeth in the top row. When I was younger (7,8,9) , my gap was bigger than it is now, thanking God it has gotten smaller over the years. However, right now it’s really bothering me and I’m so self conscience of my smile because of this gap. I talked and asked my dentist/ orthodontist about braces. They said I did not need braces as well as what my family said too. I just really want my top row straight. Any help?

    • Daniel says:

      Lexi Hi,
      Braces are far from being the only solution to fixing teeth gap now days. There are several ways one can go about fixing teeth gap. If your gap is small enough then teeth gap bands may work for you. This is probably easiest solution to teeth gaps. Dental bonding is also a method sometimes used to fix gaps between teeth. More complex solution include crowns, implants , retainers and more. I actually just posted an article dealing with ways to fix gap in teeth. I hope you will find some helpful tips there : https://ebraces.org/how-to-fix-gaps-in-teeth/

  • Sophie says:

    I’m uncomfortable with my teeth but the orthadotist said they aren’t wonky enough to have braces, what can I do to straighten them?

    • Daniel says:

      Sophie Hi,
      Your teeth not being wonky enough to require braces are actually great news. That means that a less complex method can probably fix your teeth problems. It is hard to suggest a solution that will work well for you without knowing what is it about your teeth that bothers you. Gap bands may be enough to close simple gaps between teeth. Some cases may require an implant. Snaggle tooth can be often fixed with a retainer or a dental adjustment. Crowns or veneers can be good solutions for various teeth imperfections. There are lots of other dental techniques that can fix specific dental cases. Please tell me a bit more about your teeth problems, for me to be able to point you in the right direction. Thanks!

  • Duye says:

    I’m not reading this all but cool

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Duye!
      Thank you for your kind and funny comment:). I wanted to know what exactly you think is cool:)? Did you like our article topic? If we get enough positive feedbacks, we will broaden this topic more in our next articles. You can save our article to finish reading it when you have a time and subscribe to our RSS Feed to get the latest updates:). Thanks.

  • K says:

    Hi Daniel, my big front right tooth has always been slightly wonky since I was small… my dentist always said I never needed a brace but as I have got older it has straightened slightly but not enough. I would really like to get it straight as I feel very conscious about smiling with my teeth. I have booked a dentist appointment to discuss possible treatments, but any suggests as to what sort of thing I should enquire about? I’m worried they will say no and I would really like to push to get this sorted. I have done some research but still very unsure as to what I should enquire about. Any help you can give will be much appreciated. Thank you.

    • Daniel says:

      Hi,
      There are various dental options to fix a crooked tooth. Sometimes a crown or a veneer is the ultimate solution. In more complex cases, where there is no actual need to wear the standard braces with brackets, retainers can be used to achieve a good result. Other common techniques are : tooth re-contouring and tooth bonding. In tooth re-contouring your dentist will alter tooth enamel to disguise the imperfection. This method will only work for relevantly simple cases. In tooth bonding your dentist will apply a resin to your tooth and polish it with laser light. Both tooth re-contouring and bonding are procedures that can be performed and finished in one dental session. Some rare cases will require a removal of the tooth and inserting an implant instead. However this is a complex procedure . You should really consider all the other options before deciding to remove one of your teeth . It is not something you will ever get back. Hope this helps you being more prepared for your dental appointment.

  • Isiah says:

    I have a tooth that it’s shifting in wards and causing another tooth to shift out wards any remedies that you could help with?

    • Daniel says:

      Isiah Hi,
      Teeth shifting can often be a sign of having periodontal problems. Other signs of having gum problems include: bleeding and swollen gum areas. Proper dental hygiene is the key to keeping your gums healthy. That includes floss, multiple brushing during the day and rinsing your mouth after every meal. Avoid eating acidic fruits (such as lemons), as those increase the sensitivity of your gums. There are several home procedures you can try to improve your gums health:
      *Rinsing your mouth with warm water and salt is a simple yet effective home remedy.
      *Massaging black pepper and turmeric mixture into the gums is a popular ayurvedic remedy. Use equal amounts of both ingredients to prepare the mixture. Avoid drinking or eating anything for at least half an our after the mixture is applied. (You do need to rinse the mouth with water after massaging your gums)
      *Massaging salt and mustard oil mixture is also known to fight mouth bacteria.
      Hope those methods will help you out!

  • Katherine says:

    How can you be more confident for how your teeth look like?

    • Daniel says:

      Katherine Hi,
      This is an interesting question. Having a beautiful smile has a tremendous effect on ones self esteem. There are lots of reasons why we can be uncomfortable with our teeth. The teeth might be crooked, crowded, chipped, misaligned or have an unnatural tint. There are different ways to go about it. Practicing thorough dental hygiene is important. However it is not enough in many cases. Sometimes wearing braces is the only solution to getting the perfect smile. Other cases might be resolved just by wearing a tooth band for few months. It is important to visit a dentist and get his evolution for each individual condition. There are various dental cosmetic fixes that can be applied to our teeth to improve our smile and make us feel more confident.

  • Sadie says:

    I have a question.I have a tooth that is higher than it’s supposed to be,it is an the top row of my teeth.Is there anyway that I can push it down to make it even with the others?
    Thank you.

    • Daniel says:

      Sadie Hi,
      Teeth being higher than the rest is a common dental problem. It is especially common for canines to be mismatched in their length.Traditional braces and elastics might just be the best options to fixing this problem. If it is a really small mismatch then Invisalign might also do the job ( however it is not the best treatment for bringing teeth up or down). Thank your for your question.

  • Faisal says:

    Hey denial . I really appreciate you for your replies to us I wanted ask that my front three teeth are under bitted so any help about in such case but i dont want braces or any thing like that wich’ll hurt and looks awkward

    • Daniel says:

      Faisal Hi,
      Thank you for your question. Invisalign considered to be a good solution for fixing under-bite problems. Unlike traditional braces , Invisalign will not make you look awkward . Those are almost invisible. When it comes to pain, invisalign are not nearly as painful as traditional braces. This is a removable solution, so you can remove them when you eat or play sports. You can read a bit more about this here.

  • Cintya says:

    Hi.. I have a question… My teeth are not perfect and I have these white stains in them.. I don’t want to use braces.. Is there any other option for me to straighten my teeth..

    • Daniel says:

      Cintya Hi,
      There are various options for teeth straightening. Braces are far from being the only solution for all the dental problems. It all really depends on what kind of teeth imperfection you are talking about. Some dental problems , like dental gaps for example , can sometimes be fixed we teeth gaps alone. Other cases will require crowns or veneers. Sometimes a dental implant is the best solution. There are various dental methods for fixing different dental problems.
      Please be more specific about how imperfect your teeth are , so I can give you a better answer.
      White spots on your teeth are most likely a sign of a damaged tooth enamel. Calcium phosphate pastes considered to be one of the treatments for this problem. Fluoride can also help with remineralization of the teeth. Mi-Paste is one of the available products that is used for removing white spots on teeth. Baking soda is one of the popular home remedies that might be applied in this case. Dentists may fix white spots with micro-abrasion, bleaching and sometimes with veneers ( that is a more aggressive treatment that is not required in most cases) . It is best to visit a dentists and check if those spots are not tooth decay related before applying any of the techniques above. Hope it helps.

  • Alexis says:

    Hi Daniel. About a year ago a tooth came out, but a fragment is still in there. The other tooth grew in, so the fragment is stuck and hurts really bad. I tried pulling and pushing it but its stuck. I need braces once my parents can afford it, so I need it out. What should I do? Any home remedies?

    • Daniel says:

      Alexis Hi,
      Since you are in pain because of this fragment I would recommend you to see a dentist ASAP. In cases that the fragment does not bother the patient, some dentist advice to give it time and it may fall on its own. However that is not the case you are describing. If the fragment is causing you pain it needs to be treated by a professional. It does not mean however that this will require you to get braces right away. Your dentist will help you eliminate the source of pain. Then you and your parents can decide when it is the right time for you to get braces if those are needed.
      To treat the pain while you are waiting for you dentist appointment : apply cold compresses to your mouth or rinse your mouth with warm salted water.
      Hope you feel better soon.

  • falicia says:

    My top teeth row teeth is really bothering me but I don’t have the money for braces. What should I do

    • Daniel says:

      Falicia Hi,
      Braces are far from being the only option for fixing all dental problems. There are many cases in which other , cheaper, dental procedures can be a solution. If you may, please be more specific about what it is exactly that is bothering you about your top teeth, so I can offer some practical advice to your situation. For example if you have teeth gaps then you might just try teeth gap bands, dental bonding or veneers. All of which are much cheaper and less complicated than braces. Severe upper-bite on the other hand will probably require braces. Thank you for your question!

  • jay says:

    I have overbite teeth.
    People make fun of me wherever i go or speak.
    I cannot develop my personality or talk finely.
    Help 🙁

    • Daniel says:

      Jay Hi,
      Overbite is a very common dental problem. It is important to understand what is causing the overbite : the teeth or the jaw. That will affect the treatment you will need.
      One of the methods to fix this dental condition is Invisalign. Together with elastics it can effectively treat many overbite problems.
      More complex overbite problems will often require traditional braces, which together with rubber bands and coils will re-position your jaw and fix the overbite.
      Some cases with very severe overbite problems might require surgery. It is best to treat this problem as early as possible.

    • Knija says:

      I saw something interesting a while back. If money is hard to come by and you have an overbite that’s hard to accomodate with you can help straighten them naturally and at home in a certain way. The trick is when every morning, when you wake up, using the space (that flab of skin) between your thumb and pointer finger as a “mold” or a “guide” you can add a small amount pressure to your teeth for about fifteen to twenty seconds. The reason this may work is that while we sleep, our muscles relax. Considering our gums are muscles, they relax too. Ever wake up in the morning and your teeth feel a little loose? That’s why. Now if you train your teeth while they are this way, over time you might see the results you are looking for. Though you shouldn’t take my word for it, I heard that it worked for some people, so I’d rather have a professional say if this method works and what to look out for if you do decide to try it.

      • Susan says:

        Hey Knija!

        We’ve heard this before too and consulting with professionals shows that this is a poor way to realign teeth and potentially dangerous.

        Untrained people are not able to adequately place pressure on the mouth to realign the teeth or any mouth structure. It could cause your teeth to become misaligned because your teeth strength are not equal to your jaw strength.

        Fifteen to twenty seconds is not enough time to change any structure in the body, muscular or bone. This is just wishful thinking.

        Finally, overbites are not generally a muscular issue but a structural issue. This is why it takes years of constant pressure to reshape the bone and tendons to a proper bite. You can’t use the fingers to change the jaw. The tiny bones and muscles of the hand are insignificant to the massive bones and muscles of the jaw. It takes 800 pounds of pressure to break a human jaw.

        Each tooth can take approximately 250 pounds of force each.

        However, the gums can only take 0.5 to 4 pounds of pressure. That’s why we can bite down easily and break seeds and nuts without issue –the pressure goes to bone, but a weak hit to the side of the tooth can dislocate and dislodge teeth – the pressure is on the gum.

        Pushing on your teeth with your hands could produce pressures that exceed your gum’s ability to successfully hold your teeth in your mouth.

        Basically, following your advice could cause people to lose their teeth and still won’t correct an overbite.

        And to correct wrong data, gums are not muscles. They are several thin layers of mucosal tissues that are tightly adhered to the bone underneath. There are no muscles within the palette or gum areas.

        If your teeth are loose, this is a sign of dental problems. At no time should your teeth loosen or tighten, even in sleep. More advanced gingivitis can cause this problem. If you have it, you need to see your dentist right away because losing your teeth comes shortly after.

  • Tammy-lee says:

    Hi,I’ve had braces for about 12 months now.The doctor said I only need 14 months.The gaps are not closing & with my two front teeth,the one tooth is kinda still on the other.I don’t know what to do.I told him about it but he seem to not see anothing wrong & says they are the same length..He also says that a chip is confusing my eyes but everyone see’s it.How can I make it correct infront?

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Tammy-lee!

      If you feel something wrong and your orthodontist doesn’t see it or “doesn’t want to see it”, you can get a second opinion for sure. You have all the rights to get a second opinion from other professional orthodontist if something bothers you. It’s little hard to me to advice you here, especially when you on that progressive stage of treatment. But you can make an appointment to an other orthodontist to show your teeth.

      Thank you!

  • Kyle says:

    Do I really have to get braces like my mom says I have to get braces and is straight teeth really important. does it hurt getting the braces on and off?

    • Daniel says:

      Kyle Hi,
      There are lots of benefits to having straight teeth. The first one is it raises your confidence. Other people are more drawn to people that are confident. So it is easier to make a good first impression when you have a beautiful smile.
      Straight teeth are usually healthier. It is easier to clean them properly. You are less likely to have cavities or develop a gum disease with straight teeth. By straightening your teeth now you may avoid expensive and unpleasant dental procedures later in life.
      There are few types of braces you can get:
      1. The traditional metal braces with brackets. Those are recently become trendy and can come in variety of colors.
      2.There are ceramic braces that are almost unnoticeable.
      3. There are lingual braces that go behind your teeth.
      4. There are Invisialgn braces that are removable and almost invisible.
      Getting standard metal braces can cause some discomfort. Those usually cause soreness that lasts few days up to two weeks after getting them. You will probably experience some kind of discomfort after adjustment appointments as well. There are ways to deal with the discomfort caused by braces: rinsing your mouth with salt water, taking pain killers, eating cold treats and more .Other ways to relief pain are described here.
      Invisilign braces are less painful . Those might not work for any dental condition though.
      Getting braces off is not painful. It might be a bit weird but you will get used to it very quickly.
      You do need to get your teeth examined by an orthodontic before making a decision about braces. Not every dental condition requires braces.
      Thank you for your question. Hope I helped answer some of your concerns.

  • Monica says:

    My front teeth is one longer and another shorter ..and I don’t like to cut it also..what can I do????

    • Daniel says:

      Monica Hi,
      Thank you for your question. There are few procedures than can be applied to even the lengths of your teeth. If you are not interested in adjusting the length of the longer one then you need to explore methods that can make the shorter tooth longer. ( However it is recommended to evaluate your other teeth to decide which is the right way to go. Both of those teeth should be approximately the length of your canine teeth. ) Putting a veneer on the shorter tooth might be a good solution for making it longer. Bonding is a dental procedure that can also work well in some cases. Both veneers and bonding are cosmetic procedures. In bonding your dentist will apply a resin to your shorter teeth and shape it to match the other one. If you choose to go with a veneer then you will have a porcelain shell placed over your shorter tooth. Bonding is faster and less expensive than a veneer. Veneers however tend to look more natural and last longer.

  • mamona says:

    I have blueish purple tooth with bleeding.I have root canal which still pains how to prevent my teeth from cavities and gums prob

    • Daniel says:

      Mamona Hi,
      I am sorry to hear you have those painful teeth problems. Root canal treatment can fail sometimes. If the tooth that went through root canal treatment keeps showing painful symptoms it must be re-examined by your dentist.
      Things you can do to avoid cavities and gum problems in the future:
      1. Brushing your teeth after every meal with fluoride toothpaste. Rinsing your mouth with mouth rinse that contains fluoride is also beneficial.
      2. Flossing on daily basis.
      3. Lessening the amount of candies and snacks during the day.
      4. Eating lots of fresh fruits and veggies.
      5. Using a straw when drinking sugary drinks that are not so good for the teeth. (Lessen the amount of those).
      6. Visiting the dentists regularly for checkups.
      7. Dental sealants can be helpful. Those are protective layers that get attached to the chewing areas of the teeth and help prevent tooth decay.
      Hope you will feel better soon and that some of the tips above will help you avoid dental problems in the future.

      • Holly P says:

        my daughter had this problem of tooth pain on a “root canaled tooth”.
        The dentist could not figure out why she had this pain so eventually after months of continuing pain he removed the tooth. He was really surprised to discover that she had a 3rd root in her tooth. He didn’t spot it during the original root canal. Have your dentist do an exam on the tooth to find if you have a “hidden” 3rd root. Hopefully you can save the tooth.

        • Susan says:

          Hi Holly!

          Thanks for sharing this information!

          Many people don’t realize that some teeth will develop a third, and even fourth, root. Sometimes it just happens, sometimes it is in response to injury.

          A dentist should do a full x-ray on the teeth to know what is happening before anything like a root canal. A full x-ray should be done with pain that doesn’t have a source.

  • Rajat Pratap Singh Tomar says:

    Sir,
    my canines are the problem they are not straight as compared to all of my teeths, it looks like vampire type and I hate them :(…
    Will you plz help me to tell me what should I do…???

    • Daniel says:

      Hi,
      Canine teeth are always slightly pointy to serve their purpose. If your canine teeth are too sharp, you can often solve it with cosmetic dentistry. Tooth re-contouring is one of the cosmetic dental procedures that can help in those kind of situations. In this procedure tooth enamel is being slightly adjusted to give it the desired look. Sometimes re contouring on its own is not enough to give the tooth the desired shape. Then this procedure can be combined with tooth bonding. In bonding tooth colored material is applied to the adjusted tooth to easily reshape it. In some cases a veneer would work better than a simple bonding.

  • Brit Rhodes says:

    I had braces for a year and a half then took them off because my teeth straightened perfectly. I never wore my retainer and my teeth didn’t move. I had to get braces in 8th grade again because one of my teeth came in weird and I got them off in February, in 9th grade. I wore my retainer then I didn’t wear it for 2 days and my four bottom teeth went completely crooked!! I don’t want braces from the orthodontist I went too again because he was horrible (I’m overseas now)

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Brit,
      Sorry to hear you are experiencing crooked teeth again. A retainer makes sure that the aligned teeth stay in their new location. Unfortunately not wearing it drastically reduces the chances of the teeth staying that way.
      I would suggest you to keep wearing your retainer as it may fix the situation. There are different types of retainers: Hawley retainers, clear plastic retainers, fixed retainers. Changing the type of a retainer you wear might make it easier for you to wear it more often. If it bothers you that your retainer is noticeable then going with a clear plastic one might be a good idea. I would however consult an orthodontist before making any changes.
      If you are not happy with your orthodontist I would strongly suggest you try and visit another one. Having a good orthodontist does affect the results you end up with.
      Thank you for your question. Hope you will have a straightened teeth once again soon.

  • kibru getachew says:

    two of my teeths next to two front teeths one at the left and one at the rignt are demorfed to inside that was a mistake at the childhood i dont push up these tooth when they grow what shall i do now?

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Kibru Getachew!

      I don’t think there is some quick home remedy solution exists for you. The best is to make an appointment to an orthodontist to show him/her your case.
      Thank you!

  • D says:

    Hi,
    I have this gap between my two front teeth on the top and I would like to know how to fix it…
    Thank you

    • Daniel says:

      Hi D,
      There are few different ways to treat teeth gaps. In some simple cases teeth gap bands may be enough . This is the most inexpensive method . However it will only work for small gaps. The really complex cases may require braces or retainers. Veneers, Crowns, Dental Bonding and Dentures are also used to fix teeth gaps. I actually have an article that discusses ways to treat teeth gaps in lots of details. You can read it here. I believe you will find all the required info about fixing your front teeth there. Thank you for your question . Hope I could help.

  • Jessica says:

    As a dental professional I can truly say that this is an awful recommendation. Dentists go to school for 4 years after college and a board certified orthodontist is another 2ish years after that! There’s a reason braces are expensive. Dentists do not go to school for 8-11 years for free!!!

    • Daniel says:

      Jessica Hi,
      I am sorry you got the feeling I am trying to underestimate the importance of dentist’s profession. That is not what I was trying to do at all. As I state in the post “the best person who knows how to straighten your teeth is your orthodontist” . I do recommend everyone getting dentist’s evaluation about the best method for straightening their teeth. However too many people mistakenly believe that braces are the only way to fix any teeth misalignment. There are lots of reasons why one may not want or need to wear the standard metal braces. Price is only one of those possible reasons. I believe it is important for everyone to understand how braces work, what to expect when wearing them and know what other options are there for straightening their teeth.

  • Suriya Prabha says:

    Hi,
    1)I have my front four teeth extended out compared to other teeth. But, I can close my mouth.So, my family members advising me not to wear brace. Is it necessary for me to wear brace?
    2) my front four teeth have gap and I am not comfortable with that. I am too conscious while I smile.
    3) I have some white layer devolped on my teeth. Why it so? Is it due to any deficiency?
    4) Right hand, lower jaw premolars and molars are up than upper jaw. Can it be altered with braces?

    My mom says, if u apply some gentle pressure on your teeth after u get up, ur teeth goes down. Is it true or myth?

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Suriya Prabha!

      Thank you for your comment. I will try to answer your questions:

      1. This situation, in which you can close your mouth with teeth extended out is not a reason not to get braces:). Orthodontists recommend braces mostly to improve oro-facial appearance of the patient. If that situation doesn’t bother you, you can stay without braces. But without proper orthodontic care you might develop some other teeth problems. For example periodontal, or gum disease, when your gums don’t fit securely around your teeth, leaving more room for bacteria to grow; increasing the risk of tooth decay, cavities and gingivitis because of difficulties to clean your teeth right.

      2. Okay, so you have also a gap in between these four extended teeth. There are a lot of options to fix that. Simple gaps can be fixed with simple teeth bands while bigger gaps might require crowns, teeth bonding or other more serious dental procedures. We have a great article on How To Fix Gaps In Teeth. You can read about all the different gap fixind methods there.

      3. White layer on the teeth can be a result of plaque or debris that is gathered around the gum line. When plaque remains on your teeth, it hardens into tartar. Initially white tartar layer can quicly become stained by food or smoking. A professional cleaning by your dentist will take care of this problem. White spots on teeth can also be a result of damaged tooth enamel. Calacium phosphate pastes, fluoride re-mineralization and baking soda are some of the possible methods to deal with this problem. So I still advice you to see your dentist to determine an exact cause. Sometimes it may be because of the other reasons like illness during tooth development,or the effects of fluoride.

      4. This question is a complex one. It really depends on your exact case. In some cases the height difference is caused by teeth not being in the right position. Then braces can be a solution, other cases will require a different dental approach. That is also something I would recommend you to see a dentist with. Getting a professional evaluation will help you decide if braces is something you need to consider.What your mom said about applying gentle pressure on your teeth to affect their movement is right. That is mainly how braces work, You however have to be careful and very consistent to actually see results from this kind of pressure. This can only work for very simple cases.

      Hope it helps.

  • Iris says:

    I have a question… my teeth are all out of place, they all have different positiona , I mean there’s no gaps the just go up and down in different ways and front and back wards. It really bothers me personally because I’m in modeling classes and that’s where i’m leaning for my future. it would help if I could have much straighter teeth and not many people pay attention to it but I do. I don’t want braces for both reasons, I don’t got any money, and it would bother me for the time that I would have it on. So what can I do? It would really help Daniel

    • Daniel says:

      Iris Hi,
      If we are talking about lots of teeth that are misplaced then orthodontics would probably be the only option. Home remedy methods mentioned in the article can only work for slight re-positioning. Very noticeable metal braces that are bonded to your teeth is really not the only thing orthodontists can offer you now days. There are removable transparent braces , called Invisalign, which you just wear on top of your teeth. Those are almost unnoticeable and can be removed for eating and brushing purposes. There are also ceramic braces. Those are bonded to the teeth just like metal braces but have tooth colored brackets that make them much less noticeable. Another discrete option for braces are lingual braces. Those are metal braces which are placed on the back of your teeth. All of the options are not very cheap. However many orthodontics offer convenient payment plans that allow you to spread payments over several years. Another more affordable solution is dentist schools. You can find schools that offer orthodontic treatment that is much less expensive than the treatment offered by experienced orthodontists. In those schools you are being treated by students, but they are under professional supervision. Thank you for you question. Hope this answer was any help.

  • Johana says:

    I have three teeth on the bottom that are cricket and everybody keeps talking about them. Also two teeth on top.. how an I get them fixed?

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Johana!

      Thank you for your question. Getting braces is always the option to straighten your crooked teeth. There are a lot of different types of braces. You can read our quick guide to getting braces for more information on braces. I think that the best route in your case is to show your teeth to your orthodontist even if you don’t want to get braces. Orthodontist can also guide you to other methods on how to straighten your teeth without braces like clear plastic removable aligners, retainers or dental veneers, if that is applicable in your situation. As you have a few crooked teeth, I think that simple home remedies like dental floss won’t work as effectively or as fast as you would want them to. Recently I found a home remedy idea in . This video is about using moldable plastic from InstaMorph, but I’m not sure if it’s safe to place this kind of plastic in your mouth. I contacted support to find out more about it. I will let you know once I get an answer. Hope it helps.

  • Princess says:

    Hi! My first question from u is that How to stop pain when braces are applied to teeth and rubber bands are hanged….My second question is that for how many years or months Aligners are used?

    • Daniel says:

      Princess Hi,
      There are different methods that can help reduce the pain experienced once you get braces. The most obvious one is taking pain relief medication. There are however home remedy techniques that can also help. Rinsing your mouth with salt water, eating frozen treats, holding something warm against your jaw or massaging your gums are just few of the methods that can help with reducing pain. I have a post that deals with methods for braces pain releif, you can read it here and get some other ideas.
      As for your second question , it is hard to give an exact answer. Treatment time really depends on how severe is the case. The more the teeth have to move to get into straight position the longer the treatment will take. With aligners it is ussually somewhere around 10 month to 2 years. It is best to get an evoluation apointment with an orthodontist to get a more exact answer.
      Thank you for your questions.Hope I could help.

  • Khushi says:

    My teeth is not straight and my friend tease me so plz tell me what can I do

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Khushi!

      If you feel something wrong with your teeth, first of all, make an appointment with your orthodontist. The orthodontist will guide you through different options you have, with and without braces and offer you a treatment plan. You don’t have to start straight from this plan, you only need to know a qualified review of your teeth. You can also get a second opinion from other orthodontist and compare the prices. You can try methods without braces that include: clear plastic removable aligners, retainers, dental veneers, palatal expanders, Invisalign. You can research every option to see if it’s a good fit for you. You can also try home remedies, but please note that they won’t work as effectively or as fast as you need them to.

      Hope it helps. Thank you!

  • shankar chavda says:

    I am 19 year old boy my teeth position is not regular not straight plz suggests me how can my teeth is straight cheaper way

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Shankar Chavda!

      You have a few options to straighten your teeth without braces if you want to go by that inexpensive way. But the best way is to show your teeth to orthodontist first and to find out all your treatment options, even an expensive ones. The orthodontist may also guide you to the methods without braces. In case the methods without braces won’t help, you can always get a few offers for your treatment plan, compare them and find the best price. The treatment options without braces include: dental veneers, clear plastic removable aligners, Invisalign, retainers, palatal expanders. You can research each option to see if they’re good for you. Recently I found a home remedy idea in this video about using moldable plastic from InstaMorph, but I’m not sure if it’s safe enough to place this plastic into your mouth. I already contacted the company support and asked them about it. Will update you soon.

      Hope it helps.

      Update:

      I’ve got this answer from Brian (The InstaMorph Team):

      Thanks for your question. InstaMorph is a non-toxic material, so to the best of our knowledge, there isn’t anything harmful in it. That being said, we aren’t certified food contact safe and we created InstaMorph as a hobby material, not for dental applications. Any usage of InstaMorph for this kind of application or any other use, the risk is assumed by the customer.

  • nishant says:

    My teeth are getting front with gums and its looking horrible do I have any remedy..

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Nishant,

      Applying slight pressure on the teeth you want to re-position is the main idea behind orthodontics. That is how braces work. Home remedies for straightening teeth are based on the same thing. You can use your tongue to push the teeth in the desired direction. If you keep doing it regularly you might experience an improvement. The result will only be noticeable for very simple cases of misaligned teeth. If you have lots of misplaced teeth home remedies are unlikely to work for you. Then you might consider getting braces , retainers or removable aligners as I discussed in the above article. Hope it helps.

  • Arishah says:

    Hi,
    I am 16 years old .People say to me that my teeth are absolutely straighten but when i see my pictures they look like oblong and gives my face an oval shape, doctor can I straighten my teeth without braces with put some pressure on it daily ,,,kindly reply me

    • Daniel says:

      Arishah Hi,

      Thank you for your question. It is possible to slightly affect teeth positioning just by applying gentle pressure in the right direction. You will need to be patient and consistent to get actual results. The pressure can be applied just by your tongue. Some people use their fingers or dental floss. You have to be careful though not to push too hard. This method works only for simple cases. Since others don’t notice any problem with your teeth , it might actually work for you. Hope it helps.

  • Sara says:

    I dont have straight incisors in both my jaws. My dentist removed my right incisor from upper jaw which was very above in my gum. Now there is a gap between teeth. Please tell me how to solve this problem. And in my lower jaw all four incisors are not straight. Please tell about this too. I cant afford braces. I’d be very kind of you! 🙂

    • Daniel says:

      Sara Hi,

      Thank you for your question. I believe that there are few ways for closing the gap between your teeth. Since it is a tooth size gap simple procedures, such as gap bands and dental bonding probably won’t work. I believe that this situation will require one of the following dental treatments: Implants , Crowns or Dentures. The last one is used mostly for cases with a gap that resulted from a missing tooth. You can read more about each of the treatments in my post about way to fix teeth gaps.

      As for your question about the lower incisors: home remedy solution might only work for very simple cases. If the teeth need just a slight re-positioning then you might try and apply slight pressure on them in the desired direction. That will only work if done consistently. If you chose to go that path make sure you are not applying any actual force as that can cause serious damage.

      Wearing a retainer might work. It is a cheaper alternative, but only works for certain cases. It is important to check with your dentist to see that the solution is suitable for your exact case. Sometimes getting crowns on the crooked teeth may present a good enough aesthetic solution. There are also different appliances ( such as herbst, head-gear, ortho-t and others) offered in some of the dental clinics that may offer teeth straightening solutions. It is, however, best to consult with your dentist about your particular case. Hope I have been of some help.

  • Mishal says:

    Hi Daniel! Im 40 years old and my uper and lower jaw incisors are outwards. Although they are straight! My Dentist said i cant have braces. Can you tell a way to push them back and look good? Because they make me less confident. Thankyou.

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Mishal!

      I’m glad you contacted us!

      This is a hard issue. If your dentist has told you braces won’t work, have you talked about retainers or any other less invasive remedy? Braces can be used for any issue as long as the structure of the mouth can support the braces.

      If the teeth and mouth can’t handle braces, there are other issues happening. Gentle hand pressure used often throughout the day may slowly start to put them in place. I had a gap I closed and that worked well for. It takes a long time to see results and you have to be diligent.

      Things like the tooth bands and home retainers may make the problem worse. I would need to know more about the specific issue before giving you options. I really suggest that you revisit your dentist and question them on the options. In this article, we give out several.

      If your dentist isn’t willing to answer your questions, I recommend finding a new dentist. There are many that will answer your questions and point you to a better smile.

  • tipsik says:

    Hi,I have a problem with my 4 outside buck like teeth I am appliying force since 6 years because of my teeth I have upper lips too….

  • Närumiî Chân says:

    hi I Want help I want straight teeth . my front teeth is larger than the rest plz answer ??

    • Daniel says:

      Hi,
      Thank you for your question. Cosmetic dentistry offers several options to fix your situation with larger front teeth. It is important to visit a dentist to understand whether the front teeth are actually too big or is it that the rest of the teeth are too small. For larger front teeth tooth recontouring is one of the options. In this procedure, the length of the longer teeth is readjusted to match the length of the other teeth. This procedure is only safe if the length that needs to be readjusted is smaller than 1mm. Some doctors even limit it to 1/2mm length. If the length is greater than that, this procedure may cause tooth sensitivity. Composite bonding, veneers and crowns are something to consider when a slight tooth reshaping is not enough to fix the problem. A more conservative approach would be to use braces or Invisalign to affect the positioning of the teeth.

  • Mellissa says:

    My 8 year old has extremely crooked gapped teeth. Is there a way I can help her between now and when she is old enough for braces? She is being teased.

    • Daniel says:

      Mellisa Hi,

      Thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear your kid is being teased. The good news is that most kids will soon have braces too, so it will not be considered weird. It is actually considered a wise choice to get a child to visit an orthodontist in an early age. The recommendation is for a child of 7 years old to already have an orthodontist appointment. The reason for this is that it is often easier to reshape the still growing jaw and the upcoming teeth. Sometimes just pulling out a baby tooth early enough can influence the way the new teeth will grow. Many orthodontists recommend using dental appliances in an early age, saying that that will positively affect the condition of teeth later on and will make the period of wearing the actual braces shorter.

  • Amanda says:

    well i am 13 years old and my family doesn’t have a car and my mom isn’t willing to by me braces and i have one tooth that is really weird shaped and I’ve tried pushing it into the right direction but it seems to be stuck behind my other tooth they are my two front teeth so you can imagine i look like an idiot and with me being 13 i want to start dating but how can i do that if when ever i smile guys just run away? please help!

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Amanda!

      I’m glad you asked!

      My wife still has crooked teeth. I didn’t even noticed that until she herself brought it up. For me, her teeth are a part of her and I love her the way she is. As cliché as it is, you too will find a mature boy that will accept your teeth and love you for you. Just be patient.

      But, since you’ve heard all that before, let’s talk about your options. First, fixing your teeth isn’t fast. It will take years to move them back into place. Are your teeth that bad that having braces until you are 16 will be better? You may have braces for 2 to 4 years or your entire high school life.

      If there are financial constraints, your guidance counselor will be able to present options for your local area that provide transportation, low cost dental, and/or reimbursement. There are also many dentists around the country that will work for free if you have the right connections and meet certain criteria.

      With your one tooth being stuck behind another, you won’t be able to move them on your own. Doing so would create more problems. This is truly a decision you and your family should make with your dentist.

  • Muyeez says:

    Can i push my teeths often plz suggest me

    • Daniel says:

      Muyeez Hi,

      Thank you for your question. Applying constant gentle pressure on teeth to affect their positioning is the idea behind braces. Some people use it without braces for a long time period and sometimes achieve slight teeth movement without getting braces. That can only work for very simple cases with tiny single tooth displacement. It is very important to not overdo with the pressure and only apply it in the right direction.

  • Malaasa says:

    I have short teeth and my canine teeth is not equal to my other teeths, it’s too forward and it’s quite embarrassing for me to smile as I don’t have a perfect smile (teeth)

    • Susan says:

      Hi Malaasa!

      I’m happy to help you. My teeth are different lengths, too. I have chosen to accept my teeth as is. There are no structural issues, and the work that would need to be done is extensive.

      Now, if your teeth are at odd angles, this is something your dentist can talk to you about. They will recommend different options to realign your teeth. Bands to use at home for straightening are not designed for this kind of issue.

      For the lengths, this is much more extensive. Tooth recontouring is only safe for tiny length adjustments. If the length difference is big enough to notice, then your dentist will not file down your canines. This is a dangerous and potentially destructive technique. Those who have done this for cosmetic reasons have found the integrity of the tooth is greatly diminished and they lose their teeth quickly.

      The options presented will be caps, bridges, and implants. All of these need to be done by a dentist or orthodontist. They will create a false tooth or piece of tooth and attach it to the real tooth. (The techniques are explained in more detail in this article.) If the tooth is not in good shape, they may remove the real tooth and implant a whole fake tooth.

  • jazz killen says:

    I m having gap between. My teeth. I don’t like to apply bracez .it pains me alot.so wil u give me a home redeems to put my teeth in proper order.

    • Daniel says:

      Hi,
      Thank you for your question. Braces are not the only treatment available for gapped teeth. Gapped teeth can be fixed with gap bands, dental bonding, crowns, veneers, dentures and other dental procedures. Gap bands are the easiest and most affordable method. But it works only for simple cases when the gap is not too big. It can be considered a home remedy solution for a gap in teeth. However, I would advise you to get dentist supervision when using them to avoid damaging your teeth. For a bit larger gaps, dental bonding might be a good option. It is a relatively simple cosmetic procedure that can transform gapped teeth into beautiful looking teeth in a matter of just a few hours. I have a post that deals with different approaches to fixing a gap in teeth, you can read it here. Hope this will help you find a solution for fixing your teeth gap.

  • akshay says:

    hiiii doctor
    my upper jaws one front teeth is slightly front can I solve this problem it always give me one shy feeling in my smile
    plzzz help

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Akshay!

      I’m glad you asked that question (even if we aren’t doctors here).

      In the case of a tooth that isn’t aligned, a dentist can tell you what is happening. It may require something as extreme as braces. Or there may be lots of other options.

      If the tooth is just slightly out of place and not causing eating or talking issues, we recommend accepting your smile as it is. No smile is perfect. Manipulating your teeth can have life-long negative reactions. If you try a home technique and it doesn’t work, the cost of repair goes exponentially higher.

      There are some home remedies. Tooth bands work when there are only slight problems. The gently help maneuver your tooth back into place by using the correct teeth as a brace. There are more in this article.

      Retainers are another way to go. These require a dentist to create. We recommend you use a dentist regardless of your choices in treatment. They will be able to tell you if the tooth band will work and what the risks are. They may also find other structural problems that need to be addressed.

  • beatrice says:

    Hi. My two upper teeth grew inside that when I smile or chewing they go inside my lower teeth. Is there way I can make them come outside my lower teeth? Thanks

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Beatrice!

      Thank you for your question. That sounds like an underbite. It’s a structural issue where your jaw is either misaligned or your teeth are misaligned.

      There are ways to correct this, and all of them include working with a doctor. Depending on the severity of the misalignment, everything from simple exercises to serious surgery may be required.

      The good news is that it is correctable. Visit a local doctor to be properly diagnosed and discuss treatment. I would also recommend visiting a chiropractor and/or holistic dentist. The chiropractor will look at your neck and jaw to see if the problem could be fixed with adjustments. This is fast becoming a popular treatment. It is lower in cost and less invasive.

      A holistic dentist would also start with exercises and routines that adjust the way the muscles work and aim to remedy the alignment problem without being invasive.

  • miranda fullk says:

    hi iam 13 years old i have a lot of messed up teeth my family does not have a car and i don’t think we will ever be able to afford braces let a lone a car. As you know I will start to want start dating i cant do that if i have un- straight teeth so how can i straight my teeth in an easy way PLEASE HELP thank you!

    • Susan says:

      Hello Miranda!

      This is a common concern of teenagers.

      First, you will be fine if you have un-straight teeth. Dating may seem like a big deal now, but when you are 20 you will laugh at yourself. Perfect teeth are nothing when compared to a strong spirit and confident personality. Trust me when I say the people who matter (not boys) won’t care anything about your teeth, only about your potential and how to help you reach it.

      We recommend looking at pictures of celebrities, especially Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus (at 13, not now), Jewel, Avril Lavigne, Keira Knightly, Daniel Radcliffe, and Johnny Depp. These people are famous and loved with bad teeth. They made their careers by being good people, not because of their teeth.

      Remember, most models and actors/actresses have their teeth photoshopped in pictures. Whitening teeth is a standard for this industry.

      If you are concerned your teeth are causing pain or disrupting your ability to eat or talk, visit a dentist. While they will require a parent or guardian to be with you at 13, they will be able to work with you to find out what options are available to you.

      If money issues are truly desperate, visit your school counselor. They will be able to set you up with a government agency to get you basic dental services. But don’t expect them to pay for straitening your teeth just because you want them to. They will only do it if it is causing problems.

      If you do need your teeth straightened, it is not a quick process. You are going to face 3 years of having your teeth in braces, which can be more unsightly than crooked teeth. You will be stopped from being able to do many things because of the metal on your teeth. Then, you will be faced with several more months to years of retainers. This will take you to the end of your high school life.

      We recommend you visit a dentist to know what is really going on in your mouth. If you need braces, this will be discussed. If you don’t, then your teeth look good the way they are.

      Unfortunately, there are few options available otherwise. All other home remedies won’t work for kids and will make things worse. Do not try them as your teeth and jaw are not grown enough to be able to handle them.

  • Sam says:

    hi there my teeth is misalign please tell me how can i make my teeth straight i am so sad because of my teeths….

    • Daniel says:

      Sam Hi,

      Thank you for your comment. There are different approaches to teeth straightening. It really depends on how severe your misalignment is and how exactly are your teeth misaligned. Teeth gaps, for example, is something that can be fixed with various methods including very simple ones like gap bands. On the other hand, there are severe bite problems that can only be fixed with traditional braces. Invisalign, for example, is a modern orthodontic solution that can work for a wide range of, misalignment problems with moderate severity. You really need to get an evaluation appointment with an orthodontist to know what are the options that can work for your specific case. I hope that the posts on this website can give you an overview of solutions you might expect. Sorry for not being able to give you a more straight forward answer.

  • Diana says:

    Hi, I have had lingual braces for about 8 months already. Two months ago my orthodontist polished the upper front teeth and since then a horrible medium size gap has opened between the upper front teeth and it seems to get bigger every day. I asked my orthodontist why that gap appeared and he says because he is fixing the bite.
    I want a second opinion on whether or not the treatment is on the right track or I should change to another orthodontist. I appreciate any guidance or what is going on 🙁

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Diana!

      I’m glad you asked. I recommend you keep asking questions. If your dentist believes the gap is normal, ask why. Have him explain it to you. If this is truly the case, he will take the time to explain it and how it will be fixed.

      If you feel your treatment is making things worse or have concerns your dentist will not address, I recommend finding another orthodontist and getting a second opinion. Be sure to tell him what your concerns are, the current treatment protocols, and what the other dentist had to say. It is your right. Just be nice. All dentists in an area talk to each other and most of them are friends.

      At the 8 month mark, you aren’t that far into the treatment. There have been cases where creating a gap has been beneficial and corrected later in the treatment. Like I said, be sure to ask lots of questions until you are satisfied with the answer.

      I wish I could tell you why the gap appeared or if it is normal. Without seeing your mouth, that’s really hard. Let your local professionals help you and remember: Keep asking questions!

  • Bablu Bablu says:

    My left front incessor is cross which of on the upper of canine can’t we make it straight with out removing premolars

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Bablu Bablu!

      I’m glad you asked. If your dentist recommended it, you can get a second opinion (from a dentist in person), follow their advice, or ignore it completely. In any case, make sure you know why they want to pull it. If you don’t have enough room in your mouth, pulling may be the only option.

      Otherwise, look at the options for invisible braces, damon braces or regular braces. In cases of extreme crossing or misalignment, these are your only options. Both of these need to be done by an orthodontist.

      If the misalignment is not bad, you can choose some home trials, such as tooth bands. These gently pull teeth together and work well for gaps.

      Other options are implants, bridges, and bonding. You can read more about them in this article. These options need to be done with a dentist or orthodontist.

      I don’t recommend using home remedies that promise quick fixes. If you try to move the tooth too far or too fast, you could end up harming the root and having the tooth fall out, or worse, become impacted.

  • Cait says:

    I have a big gap on my front teeth I was born with I’m tired of getting picked on how do I fix it?

    • Daniel says:

      Cait Hi,

      Thank you for your question. There are different ways to fix teeth gaps. Sometimes a simple solution like gap bands or dental bonding can be enough of a solution. In some cases, a veneer or a crown is needed. There are also more severe situations that require invasive procedures like implants or braces. You say you have a big gap. How big is it? Each procedure has its own limitation. Teeth gap bands, for example, will only work for gaps that are smaller than 3.5 mm. I actually have a post that is dedicated to this topic. It deals with various ways to fix teeth gaps. You can read it here.
      Hope it helps.

  • pradnya says:

    Hey…actually I have a 3 front tooth are comes up on my lips I want to straightened them back but I don’t want braces I need home made solution I don’t want braces what to do

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Pradnya!

      I’m glad you asked this question because I’m sure many people are interested in something like this. There are several home options available to you, but I want to impress upon you the value of consulting an orthodontist or dentist. By talking to them first, you’ll know if there are any bigger issues you need to deal with than just teeth out of alignment.

      Several home options are available for a variety of prices. When I was younger, my dentist told me the gap between my front teeth could use braces, or if I was really persistent, I could gently push my teeth together. It took years and lots of dedication, but it did work. Just remember, it’s gentle pressure. Too much and you could cause your tooth to fall out. A misalign tooth is still nicer than none at all.

      There are also dental bands to help place gentle pressure on teeth to move them back. I talked about them in this article.

      Invisalign is also a really good option to avoid braces. It’s usually a clear plastic retainer that you use to move your teeth back into place. It’s very similar to braces, but it doesn’t pull on your teeth like that and is way less noticeable than traditional braces. You can read more about Invisalign here. Of course, you need to work with your orthodontist, because they are only available through them and have to be changed every 2 weeks or so.

      There are arches, bridges, and implants that can also help, and these all need to be done under an orthodontist’s supervision.

      While I did look at several other home remedies, I felt that too many of them were unsafe and/or damaging to your teeth. That’s why I want you to talk to your dentist. They may have other options.

  • gena says:

    Season greetings, I have a problem that occur that I have big front teeth because I use to suck my finger I try to fix them, how to solve this problem !and the other problem to whiten my teeth I used baking soda and lemon and also toothpaste I brush them I am not really sure what tooth color level I am but am hoping you could help

    • Susan says:

      Hi Gena!

      I’m glad you asked this question. Many people have experienced the same issues. The flaring of your front teeth is common because of a series of years where allowing children to thumb suck was in vogue. You aren’t alone.

      One of the things your dentist will tell you is that the size of your front teeth is built into your bones, not because you sucked your thumb. Most dentists will refuse to alter the size of your teeth unless it is causing additional dental problem. The reason for this is because as we age, we naturally wear away our teeth. Having more tooth to wear away allows the tooth to remain healthy longer.

      As for it sticking out, this is a decision you and your dentist needs to make. If your teeth are causing problems, your dentist will recommend braces or retainer to move the teeth back into place. But, if no problems are being caused, your dentist may recommend not doing anything.

      More and more dentists are allowing tooth misalignments to remain if they aren’t causing problems with other teeth, eating, drinking, or talking. Talk to your dentist. For a really simple fix, they may recommend using just simple tooth bands to bring your teeth back into alignment.

      Here’s the tough one: tooth whitening. As we age, the natural tendency for our teeth to discolor is just that, completely natural.

      Many food and drink items cause discoloring: Juices, coffee, tea, alcohol, red and orange foods, processed foods with preservatives, and anything artificially colored (like candy, cookies, or boxed foods). Avoiding these foods lessens the discoloring. Although, you should eat red and orange vegetables because they are healthy.

      There are many types of teeth whitening available. Most are home kits, and some are professional programs done by your dentist. In any event, you should talk to your dentist before trying an at-home remedy. This way, your dentist knows ahead of time what you are doing. If there are any complications, they can take this into account.

      Also, follow their recommendation for whitening. If your teeth are cracked and vulnerable (like mine), at home whitening could make the problems worse. In this case, only professional whitening will work. Your dentist will know and be able to advise you. If they push for an expensive process and you are unable to afford it, state that reason. Most will provide you will cost effective measures. If they don’t, visit another dentist.

  • Chahat Khattar says:

    Hi I had put braces ten years back, but again I think they are coming out, What is the alternate to braces

    • Susan says:

      Hi, Chahat!

      I’m glad you asked.

      Now, I assume you mean that the changes made by the braces are coming out. In nearly all cases, braces are only used for 2-3 years.

      Your teeth will move and change all your life. In order to keep them in the proper place, your jaw and muscles must also be in the proper place. You really can’t tell on your own if the jaw or muscles are out of place, a dentist is required for that. If they aren’t in place, any changes made by braces will become undone as you are noticing.

      At this point, you should consult with your previous dentist or orthodontist about options. They will know what the previous problems were and what the possibilities are for the future.

      In minor cases of an alignment problem, a retainer may be used. They are often used to keep teeth in place. Many people who had braces use a nightly retainer to keep their teeth in place. Of course, if the problem is serious, you may need braces again. Just talk with your dentist and see what your options are.

  • Nay says:

    my teeth seem fine except for the fact that the top teeth do not meet with the bottom teeth. my bottom teeth are perfectly straight but i only have a problem with the upper four teeth. this makes it difficult for me to sometimes bite my food. there is only a slight gap in between the top and the bottom teeth so is it possible for me to have this fixed with retainers only?

    • Susan says:

      Hi, Nay!

      I’m glad you asked this question.

      It sounds like there is some sort of twisting or displacement. Usually, this happens with the lower teeth, since the lower jaw is so flexible, especially while growing. Your issue is with the top teeth and that makes it a bit more challenging to deal with.

      When your teeth don’t meet and cause an issue with biting or chewing, this is considered a serious problem. This is something we definitely recommend you visit your dentist for. They will be able to tell you about the specific bone and/or gum issues that are causing your teeth to have the gap. In some cases, a chiropractor may be able to help realign your jaw so your teeth meet. At this point, the chiropractor and dentist work together to make sure the problem gets fixed.

      Most of the time, it calls for braces. That’s because there are serious issues that need to be addressed with tooth placement. When your dentist starts to pull your teeth back into alignment, you need to make sure that other teeth aren’t displaced. Braces offer a fixed and solid support for your teeth and help your mouth align properly.

      A retainer may possibly be used if the issue isn’t serious. The Invisalign brand is on that really helps, and that requires bi-monthly trips to the dentist. But, you will need to talk to your dentist to find out what solution will work for you.

  • Mohit says:

    My front teeth are coming out but I don’t want brassies 1-should I use aligner
    2-what should I do

    • Daniel says:

      Hello Mohit!

      Thank you for your question.

      I assume you mean that your teeth are pointing out, not falling out of your mouth. If they are falling out of your mouth, you need to get to your dentist as soon as possible to avoid losing your teeth altogether.

      Why are your teeth pointing out? This is a question you and your dentist will cover. Once you know the reasons for your teeth misalignment, you’ll be able to know what to do to fix it. Using an at-home remedy without understanding the cause of the problem could make things worse in the long run.

      Braces aren’t the only options for minor work. Retainers, bands, and implants all have their places to help put teeth back into place. An aligner/retainer is made by your dentist, so you will need to visit one to get this help.

      As for what you should do: visit your dentist. Know what the problem is and what the ways to fix it are. There are other options rather than braces, you just need to ask.

  • shaziya says:

    Hi my front tooth has overlapped with another tooth so I can’t even close my mouth properly. How can I fix this without using braces.

    • Daniel says:

      Hello Shaziya!

      Thank you for your question.

      This is a tough problem.

      Usually, when one tooth overlaps another, there is a bigger problem going on. This is a case for a dentist. A dentist will be able to tell you what is going on in your mouth and why your teeth are overlapping.

      If you are truly having issues with closing your mouth, your dentist may recommend removing the offending tooth. Your ability to close your mouth, eat and talk properly, and avoid mouth and throat problem later in life is considered more important than a single tooth. In this case, your dentist may recommend braces for the rest of your teeth and an implant to remove the gap.

      Your dentist will be able to tell you if you have the time and ability to move both teeth back into place. It’s not an easy process, and it could take quite some time.
      Unfortunately, when dealing with a problem that causes such severe reactions as not being able to close your mouth properly, there aren’t other options. Your dentist would know if retainers would work or any other option.

      This is a complex case where at-home remedies could cause more severe problems later in life.

      Hope this helps.

  • Sara says:

    It worked for me when I was around the ages of 16 to 20. My front teeth were becoming crowded as my wisdom teeth grew in. I eventually had my wisdom teeth removed, but during the time they were growing in and I could feel my front teeth pushing forward, I got in the habit of pressing back on my top front teeth. My top teeth look great. My bottom teeth are crooked, but you can’t see them when I smile anyway, so I’m happy.

    • Daniel says:

      Sara Hi,

      Thank you so much for sharing your story. It is great to hear that this technique has worked for you and you now have beautiful front top teeth. The most important thing is that you are now feeling confident and happy about your smile.

      Once again Thank You for taking the time to share your experience. I am sure reading about it will help many of our readers.

  • Ramin says:

    hello there,
    when i was a kid i broke one of my front tooth and it was fixed….now i am an adult and that tooth is coming forward…the day passes the more it comes forward what should i do…do i need braces? its costly.. what other options do i have?
    Thank you

    • Susan says:

      Hello Ramin.

      Thank you for your question.

      Many kids have broken their teeth as kids. It causes many issues later in life. Oh, if the kids would only take it easy!

      First, did your dentist say braces were the only option? If that’s so, you can apply to several government agencies that help with unexpected medical expenses. Dental schools are also another option. They offer lower cost treatments in order to help their students learn.
      Also, talk to your dentist about payment option. Many will work with you in order to reduce costs.

      If you haven’t visited your dentist to know for certain what is happening, you should do so. Then, you will have information and options.

      There are other options for moving teeth: retainers, implants, partial braces, bands and more. Each of these has different requirements and expenses. Without better information, we really can’t give you more on these options.

  • Rebisha says:

    Hi.,

    My Upper front two teeth are big and nowadays its moving front. I put braces two years back, but again I think they are coming out. Is there any possible to cure this.

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Rebisha.
      I’m glad you asked.

      Many people have seen their teeth move after braces are removed.

      It’s typical for your teeth to move slightly in your mouth all your life. Braces take that natural moving process and direct it to make a prettier smile.

      Once the braces are removed, your teeth begin their natural movement. For you, it sounds like your teeth want to flair forwards.

      There are various ways to handle this. One, braces again. Your dentist will let you know if this is required. Generally for smaller issues, dentists are moving to other options, since braces are such a drastic option.

      Second, is a retainer. This one has great success because it helps stop the movement of your teeth. Several types of retainers can be used from a simple nightly retainer to one of the clear retainers that you wear all the time.

      This is a decision you need to make with your dentist.

      The movement could be a phase or something you will need to deal with your whole life. What I do know is that if the braces didn’t fix the problem, you need to revisit your dentist and make him or her finish the job.

      Hope this helps.

  • Samantha baldwin says:

    hi I can’t afford braces what can I do to make them straight ?

    • Susan says:

      Hi Smamantha.

      In today’s economy, this is a very common question.

      First, you need to talk with your dentist about all your options. Are braces truly the only way to fix your problems? What exactly is the issue in your mouth?

      There are many options once you know what you are dealing with. Your dentist will be able to go over many of them.

      For simple fixes, using your fingers or tooth bands can work. However, if there is any problems other than a small gap, this won’t work or could cause bigger problems.

      Various types of retainers are becoming popular. They come in various different price ranges and do many different things. Some of the better retainers actually do the work of braces without the pain or the high cost.

      There are still some things only braces can do. Still, you have options.

      We recommend talking to your dentist about payment options and programs they have access to help defer costs. If there is a medical issue, your medical insurance may be able to pay for your braces.

      There are government programs available for people who require services, so we recommend talking to your local, state, and federal offices to see what can be done.

      There are some dental discount programs, like we describe in this article.

      Finally, you can check out some dental schools. Many of them have clinics for the dentists to practice under the supervision of professional dental teachers. These clinics offer lower cost procedures and equipment.

      Thank you for your question. Hope this helps.

  • roshni says:

    putting pressure on teeth will put teeth inside permanently..

    • Susan says:

      Hi Roshni.

      I’m not quite sure what you are asking here. Yes, putting pressure on any tooth will change the position. However, it’s not permanent.

      Even braces done the best, most correct way will not keep your teeth in one location for the rest of your life. As you grow and age, your teeth grow and move. That’s why adults can have braces and fix their smiles.

      We don’t recommend placing undue pressure on teeth without a dentist’s approval. It could cause further problems, including having your teeth fall out. You should always visit a dentist and talk about safe options before attempting any adjustments of your teeth.

      Thank you for the question and hope this helped you in some way.

  • Tim says:

    I have unstraight teeth now, and I am 14 is it possible my teeth with straighten out on their own, this happened to my brothers, am I’m hoping it will work for me. Thank you for your help

    • Susan says:

      Hi Tim!

      I’m glad you asked.

      It is completely possible that your teeth will straighten out as you mature. At 14, you still have another 8 years to physically mature.

      We do recommend you talk with your dentist about your teeth. While it’s one thing to know your brothers’ teeth straightened out as they matured, knowing yours will is another.

      Even if your dentist recommends braces, you don’t need to have them. You could wait or choose to heed their recommendation.

      There are also retainers that are being used to great success to help straighten teeth. They are usually lower cost and much less visible.

      First, though, you need to know why your teeth are not straight, then find out what your options are. If your dentist recommends having your teeth straightened now, we recommend you follow that advice. It will be much easier and cost effective now. If you wait, it could take years and a much higher cost.

      Also, talk to your parents about why they don’t want you to have braces. Then, you can talk to your dentist about options to help alleviate their concerns.

      Hope this is somewhat helpful.

  • Tim says:

    My parents do not want me to have braces of any sort

  • Marvellous says:

    Hi, my four upper frontal teeth are protruded since I was 6, now 30, I want to correct it most possibly without braces cos I am a teacher. Is it possible for it to be corrected, and what are d likely ways of correcting it. I want inexpensive, pain-free and fast procedure. Kindly email me ur reply. Thanks

    • Susan says:

      Hi Marvellous!

      I’m glad you asked.

      Although you requested an email, we feel replying here will help more people out.

      When it comes to correcting your teeth, fast is relative. It won’t be days or weeks to move your teeth, it may be many months to years. Especially in adults, moving your teeth is a long process. Sorry to say that whatever you choose, it won’t be fast. (Unless you completely remove your teeth and use fakes. It is an option)

      You would need to check with your dentist to be sure, but we are going to say that your teeth can be corrected. In today’s dental world, nearly all problems can be fixed or made to look good.

      Most dental procedures have some level of discomfort. However, there shouldn’t be pain. You would need to talk to your dentist if you are overly sensitive to pain and may need painkillers. Your dentist would also prepare you for the level of discomfort and what different pain signals mean for your mouth.

      Now inexpensive is different. As adults, our bodies are pretty much set in their ways. Our teeth do move, but very slowly. Adult braces are for years because the level of change is so slow. Therefore, the doctors’ visits, equipment, and adjustments all add up.

      Braces are the most expensive option. A retainer may also be an option for you. Both will require years and many adjustments. Don’t despair, however. Talk to your dentist about your options. There may be a less expensive option depending on your situation.

      Also, check out some dental schools. They offer lower cost procedures in order to allow the students to practice. This can save you some money.

  • Isabelle says:

    okay, so I have a gap right in between my 2 front teeth that is really really small but annoys the crap out of me. Could the teeth aligners from the stores fix that over night?

    • Susan says:

      Hi Isabelle!

      Many people have gaps between their front teeth. I did! We’re going to assume since it’s only annoying that the gap isn’t causing any problems that your dentist is not recommending braces or the gap isn’t causing issues for you. You are seeing a dentist, right?

      We actually suggest you adjust your thinking to accept this natural part of you. Trying to adjust your teeth to fit your whims could cause bigger problems later on. We don’t want problems for what could easily be lived with.

      If the gap is less than 2 millimeters and your teeth are in perfect alignment otherwise, then store-bought bands may be able to close the gap over several months. The biggest key here is that your teeth must be perfect other than the gap. Otherwise you risk causing further damage.

      We have a post about ways to fix teeth gaps that might be helpful to you as well , you can read it here.

  • Isaac Pest says:

    hello
    when i was skating i had a strong fall which removed my front right tooth and i ran very fast to the dentist who put it back well in the gum but after a few months, I had my gum receding of that very part of the tooth which was put back in the gum and then after it came out from the gum slow and now its longer than the other!! do i need braces to put it back in the gums or their is any way it can be fixed!? help me pliz

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Isaac!

      That is a tough question.

      When a tooth comes out of your mouth, that’s a serious issue. You did very well by getting to the dentist right away and keeping up with the dentist over time. Keep seeing your dentist.

      If the gum is receding, there is a problem and you need your dentist.

      Whether this could be fixed with braces is not something we can answer here. We just don’t know why this is happening to you. Without knowing, we can’t offer suggestions.
      We do know braces are often used because they are secure and easily changed. Other methods, such as retainers and invisible braces, may be used. Your dentist will know.

      Thank you for your question and I am sorry I couldn’t provide a more helpful answer.

  • Treeza Lystra says:

    I have completed the course of braces but then also my teeth are not straighten.
    One teeth is stucked out.

    • Susan says:

      Hi Treeza!

      Did the course of braces completely finish? Did the dentist declare that was all your teeth could move? Did your tooth move after the braces?

      These are some of the questions we need answered before we could give you a better answer.

      Here’s what we can offer.

      Sometimes, your teeth will move after braces. This is natural movement of your teeth as you grow. It could mean that you require braces longer or that a retainer is required just to keep them in place.

      Severe motion is not normal and you should contact your dentist if this is the case.

      If your smile was not to your liking, go back to the dentist and find out why. Did your dentist explain that was the best that could happen? Sometimes there just isn’t enough room in a person’s mouth to have all of the teeth perfectly straight without pulling some. Your dentist will know if this is the case.

      Otherwise, you need to talk to your dentist and find out what is happening. If this is natural motion, your dentist will give you the options for keeping your teeth in place. If it is a problem with the course of braces not completing their job, your dentist will explain why.

      Thank you for your question I hope this helps.

  • Kiran says:

    Hi Daniel!
    I’ve long sharp canine and my lateral incisor is slightly backward aligned.I want to fix this asap without braces treatment. What do you suggest to bring it (incisor) upfront or equal to my front teeth. Procelain veneers? and do tell how much time is req to fix this prob
    Thanks 🙂

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Kiran!

      This is definitely a question you need to ask your dentist.

      Your issues are not uncommon and there are several options to have them corrected. But, without more detailed information, we don’t know which would be best for you.

      An overly sharp canine may just require a filing or a cap. Slightly misaligned teeth are often left go and monitored to make sure further movement doesn’t take place. But, if it is causing eating or bite issues, it will need to be corrected.

      As for the time factor, moving a tooth could take months to years. This is not a quick fix. Only your dentist could give you a timeline on how long it will take and what method they recommend for doing it.

      On the other side, fixing the overly sharp tooth could take just a few minutes.

      Again, listen to your dentist. Do not attempt to file your teeth by yourself. Serious damage could take place.

      Thank you for your question. Hope this is of some help.

  • Khushi says:

    My upper teeth are quite front, will retainers be helpful to push them towards inside or is it that I WILL have to put braces ??!!

    • Susan says:

      Hi Khushi!

      I’m glad you asked this.

      Only your dentist can truly determine if you require braces or just a retainer.

      It all depends on the level of displacement and what else is happening in your mouth. If the changes are just minor and you are younger, a retainer is more likely. If there are several teeth that need to be moved, other issues are present, or you are a bit older, braces could be more likely.

      As we age, our ability to move our teeth decreases. We need stronger forms of correction.

      So, really, it depends on what your dentist finds out about the rest of your mouth. If you don’t like what your dentist recommends, get a second opinion. You can also visit a dental school for other options.

  • Sibom chetry says:

    My front teeth is coming out ..like it is in diagonal position instead of straight…qhatcould I do to fix it

    • Susan says:

      Hi Sibom.

      This is a common issue.

      This is definitely an issue you want your dentist to look at. When your teeth are growing, it’s the prime time to do something about them. When you wait, it will take longer to fix.

      We don’t know why your teeth would be coming out at an odd angle. Some of the common reasons are growing over other teeth, bone malformation, pressure against your teeth (from your tongue), and injury. All of these would need to be addressed by your dentist.

      For this, there are no simple home fixes. Simply pushing your teeth back could cause them to become dislodged or loose. If there are other problems, it could make the problems worse. So, please, contact your dentist and see what is happening.

  • Emily says:

    I have a tooth on my top row that comes over another on my top row. Is there any way I can fix this that wouldn’t be costly?

    • Susan says:

      Hey Emily!

      I was in your exact situation.

      There are options with this, but we really recommend you talk to a dentist to see what they say.

      A lot depends on which tooth, how it is growing over, and what’s happening with the other tooth.

      For me, the dentist was required to pull the tooth that was being grown over. This left a noticeable gap and the tooth that was left was a bit out of place. We decided, in the interest of time and money, to leave it go and see what happened. Fortunately, my tooth began to move back into place on its own.

      If my tooth didn’t move, I was looking at braces. They would have been required for the tooth to move back into place.

      Of course, there are other options. Retainers, bands, and crowns could be used in certain situations. You need to talk with your dentist to see what they recommend.

      Whatever your solution, it won’t be quick. Moving your teeth takes many months to years. Just remember, a healthy smile is worth seeing the dentist.

  • Taruna sharma says:

    Hii sir ..my front four tooth looks outward so I can’t even able to close my mouth properly n also I want to know if we take braces treatment then can we remove them for a day or two days

    • Susan says:

      Hi Taruna!

      I’m glad you asked and so polite!

      Braces will probably be the best option for such a severe misalignment. You will need to work with your dentist to have the proper braces and techniques applied to make sure it is done right.
      As for removing the braces, that usually isn’t done. Once a braces treatment is started, it is continued non-stop until the misalignment is fixed. This could be months to years.

      Braces are removed early only during severe pain, medical treatments, or accidents. They are not removed for a comfort day. However, you would need to talk to your dentist to see if this is an option, even if we doubt that will be the case.

      When dentist removes braces, there is a high likelihood that the teeth will move back. Too much back and forth motion will cause damage to the gums and could create loose teeth. This is why dentists avoid the change.

      There are however removable braces called Invisalign . (You can read more about them here.) Invisalign aligners can be removed by the patient during the day for eating, playing sports and brushing. You are still required to wear them most of the time for the treatment to be effective. Those aligners work for very specific cases. Your dentist will be able to conclude if this option can work for you or not.

      Hope this helps.

  • haqsae says:

    My front two teeths are not straight …i don’t want to use braces…is there any other alternative to push those teeths slightly inward..
    THANK YOU

    • Susan says:

      Hi Haqsae!

      I’m glad you asked this.

      There are other alternatives, as long as you meet certain criteria.

      First, you need to talk to your dentist. You need to know why your teeth are not perfectly straight. For many people, a slight turning of teeth or a small misalignment causes no problems and should not be changed. Forcing your teeth to move when they are set could cause further problems. This is where your dentist will help you decide if a true problem exists or if you should leave it alone.

      When you talk to your dentist, ask for options. There are small bands you can use to adjust your teeth that are cheap and easy to use. They are not fast, however. They work for tiny adjustments when the rest of your teeth are perfectly fine.

      Crowns and bridges are also being used to help straighten out small misalignments in teeth.

      Retainers are a more expensive, but more commonly used, alternative. You will need your dentist for this, since each retainer is made specifically for the change you are looking for. There are several levels of retainers from simple ones used overnight, to custom made, invisible retainers you wear all day.

      Finally, if there are structural problems, you may just need braces. Usually with small adjustments, braces aren’t used, but a small misalignment could signal bigger problems.

      Only your dentist will be able to give you all of your options. We highly recommend talking to your dentist before trying any of the alternatives. This way, you can make sure your smile remains healthy.

  • Chelsea Singgar says:

    Hi! Can I please know how to push one of my teeth forward? I have a tooth next to my right incisor tooth that is pushed backwards on one side, and my tooth next to it is sort of blocking the way lol. I don’t wanna get braces, they’re too costly. Besides, I don’t know whether braces that push teeth forward are made. And also, I grown a weirs tooth. Its like growing on my upper gum, above my upper teeth. Idk how to explain sorry but I hope you would know what I’m talking about. I really wanna have perfect teeth. Thanks in advance!

    • Susan says:

      Hi Chelsea! I’m glad you asked.

      Most dentists are now agreeing that a tooth that is only slightly out of place or twisted is better off left alone. If it is not causing any issues with the growth or position of other teeth, talking, eating, or breathing, dentists are reluctant to change the position because it can cause more problems than it solves. Currently, there are no home treatments for a twisted tooth. We recommend you talk to your dentist about options.

      As for the other tooth that seems to be growing in an odd place, that is something you really will need your dentist for. A tooth that is that far out of position requires extensive adjustment to be put back in place. We can’t even begin to speculate what happened in your case, so we are recommending visiting a dentist to figure out what is happening.

  • Chelsea Singgar says:

    Sorry, I meant *weird

  • Coleen Winton says:

    I see a lot of comments here asking how do you fix a teeth gap. I’m suggesting Orthofill Bands, this is the one that helped me and I have no single regret in using it.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Coleen! Thanks for the recommendation.

      Tooth bands work for some people. You just have to make sure your teeth are perfectly normal prior to using them to close the gap. Plus, the gap needs to be smaller than about 3mm.

      You should also talk to your dentist prior to using the bands. There could be other problems happening in your mouth that would cause the bands to damage your teeth. Some of the risk include creating new gaps, pulling one tooth forward or backwards, or even losing the tooth altogether.

  • Mafas says:

    Hello I have to ask question.
    I don’t know much English but I am trying to explain my briblem.
    My upper jaw teeth are bigger then the lower jaw and mostly I am not using my upper teeth.because my upper jaw has become front then the lower. If say simply ‘like monkey’. What to do I don’t know.
    Pleas give me some suggestion to solve this problem pleas.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Mafas! Thank you for your question.

      When your upper teeth are far in front of your bottom teeth, that’s an overbite. This is an issue that needs to be resolved by a trained dentist/orthodontist. If it is causing problems with chewing and/or speaking, they will recommend braces to fix the problem.

      We would love to help, but with issues this big, you really do need a professional.

  • Damen says:

    Hey I need help with mt two front teeth i i feel like i was about 7 when they were pulled and they were pulled on the same day…and when they grew back they…sorta grew back like this \/ and there’s a piece of my gum in the middle…what do i do? If i rub my bottom teeth on it it stings alitttle….i noticed it yesterday….help..plz I’m 15 now. I also have a overbite or something like that my top teeth rest on my bottom ones please help.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Damen, these are an interesting pairing of problems.

      First, you really need to see a dentist to find out what’s wrong. A dentist will be able to diagnose what the problem is and provide potential solutions.

      Pain is always a sign something is wrong. Your gum should surround the upper part of your teeth, but not come down between them. This overgrowth could be a sign of a bigger problem, or it might just be extra gum tissue. Either way, it shouldn’t be causing pain, so you need to have that checked out.

      As for the overbite/underbite, that needs to be seen by a dentist. Some minor ones may not need any treatment at all. Regular exercises could fix the issue. Others are more severe and require fixing. You will need your dentist to determine the problem.

  • Knija says:

    When I was little I had one of my canines refusing to come out on its own, so it was pulled out of my family’s concern. But that tooth, I don’t think, should have been removed. Because now that I’m older (I’m 15yrs.) my new canine has grown in late, causing it to overlap the one that took its place. And now it’s hurting a bit, but to add to that the tooth beneath the canine is slightly twisted. My issue is with overcrowding. And it sucks, because I can’t afford braces, but my question is: is it possible to apply pressure to your teeth manually? Like something similar to spacers, if I put something small between those two teeth, and slowly give the tooth space to grow back down, and maybe even fix my gigline, would that be a smart idea? (I mean, I would really like to not have any of my teeth falling out because of this canine of mine.) I feel like this is a pretty stupid question but it’s worth a shot asking.
    ~ Thank you

    • Susan says:

      Hey Knija! I’m so glad you asked your question the way you did. It shows a lot of thoughtfulness to a tough problem.

      First, you mentioned pain from your one tooth. This is a serious dental issue and you need to talk to your dentist about why the pain is there. The extraction of your previous tooth could be at fault, if it left a bit of root or a piece of the tooth behind. It really needs to be checked out to rule out serious issues.

      I actually had a very similar issue. My adult canine on my right upper side came in when the baby canine was still in place. It took an extraction to remove the baby canine. Well, because of that, my canine sticks out a bit and it twisted one of the surrounding teeth. My dentist told me I could straighten it out with braces, or learn to live with it because it wasn’t causing any eating or speaking issue. Over time, each of the teeth straightened out on their own, because I was not going to do braces if I didn’t absolutely need them.

      Of course, I didn’t have pain. That’s a whole other issue. But, my story shows that you may not need braces.

      It is possible to apply pressure manually, but very difficult to provide it evenly and consistently. Spacers are used when the rest of the teeth are in perfect position. Otherwise, the spacers could cause your teeth to twist farther out. Plus, if you do it too hard, you could cause your teeth to loosen in their sockets. You wouldn’t lose your teeth now, but in your 20s and 30s you could.

      As for the price issue, many towns have community dental clinics that are low cost to no cost. You could be evaluated there to see what your options are. Also, check out dental schools to see about low-cost procedures to increase the options you have.

      Don’t take chances with your smile. Crooked teeth are not going break a deal, but losing your teeth over idealized beauty is a life-long pain.

  • Devin cokley says:

    i have two teeth behind the teeth it is sopposed to be beside. what do i need to do to fix it.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Devin!

      This is a complicated question.

      First, have you been to your dentist? They will be able to tell you without any question what to do.

      There are many factors that go into why teeth are misaligned. In some cases, the baby teeth did not fall out and the adult teeth are either in front or behind them.

      There may not be enough room in your mouth to allow all of your teeth to be properly aligned. This means the dentist will need to decide which teeth are the ones most likely to be stable and helpful to you and remove the others. This is quite common when it comes to wisdom teeth.

      There may be a jaw problem that forced your teeth to grow in unnatural positions. This is a much more complex topic that your dentist needs to address.

      As you age, your teeth naturally move. Any fix will need to adapt to that change. This is something your dentist will be able to tell you.

      Injury could play a part in why your teeth are in the incorrect place.

      The simplest answer is to remove the offending teeth. But, we don’t think you want that answer.

      We really can’t help you with specifics because we don’t know enough about you to be able to help. Your dentist will be able to tell you why your teeth are not in the correct position and what to do to fix the problem.

      Please don’t try home remedies without consulting a dentist.

      Trying things at home could make any serious problem worse and much more expensive.

  • Vanessa says:

    Hi Daniel,
    I had braces and my bottom jaw is shifting. I have one tooth that is especially shifting crooked. You mentioned we could “straighten our teeth” but how could I use an over the counter plastic aligner to gradually align it back without seeing the dentist? If I get aligners or retainers, wouldn’t they just keep my tooth/teeth from shifting further and retaining their current form? My goal is to try to shift my one crooked tooth back in line with the rest. Thanks in adavance

    • Daniel says:

      Hi Vanessa!

      You brought up something people need to address.

      When you are dealing with moving your teeth and shifting alignment, you need a dentist.

      There are too many things that can go wrong if you try to do the shifting yourself. Other problems could become worse.

      Yes, it is possible to use bands or retainers that you purchase without a dentist, once you know what you actually need. Your dentist will be able to tell you what you need.

      We recommend visiting a dental school to get an opinion. There, they have lower cost procedures and they are much more open to people using home remedies.

      If you do discover you need more extensive work, please follow the advice of the dentist. Your mouth is too important to risk home remedies when a professional fix is needed.

  • Wow, your thought is excellent, but if you are trying to straighten your teeth yourself, it can be very dangerous for your teeth. In my opinion Fast braces are the best for you, but before doing anything you can call any professional.

    • Daniel says:

      Hi, Andrew!

      Yes, agree with you! I always recommend to people first to get advice and consultation from their dentist or orthodontist, even a few professional opinions. Although there are few methods to straighten the teeth at home exist, it may be dangerous to implement them and the damage that may be caused in case something goes wrong is not worth it.

      Thank you!

  • Deepak says:

    Can i used rubber band as a teeth band??

    • Daniel says:

      Hey, Deepak!

      We don’t recommend using rubber bands to adjust your teeth. The tooth bands are made for the mouth and are calibrated to put precise amounts of pressure on your teeth.

      Rubber bands contain chemicals that could make you sick. Some of them may contain chemicals that stain your teeth. They are highly irregular when it comes to pressure applied. Most are also too big for your teeth. You could cause more damage.

      Hope it helps.

  • Mike Kilbert says:

    I have my one teeth with false alignment and I used my tongue to push but still now It not align with my correct teeth. Any solutions apart from this?

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Mike!

      Thank you for your question.

      Did your tooth align with the rest of your teeth at any time? Have you seen a dentist? How long have you been pushing on your tooth?

      If the tooth is not moving, then you need a dentist to do more than just what your tongue can do. Braces will provide consistent, exacting pressure on your teeth to move them into a specific position. Your tongue is convenient, but it provides neither the consistent pressure nor the ability to be precise.

      If the tooth moved through the correct position and is now in misalignment in the other direction, you’ll definitely need a dentist. This could mean the connection between the tooth and the bone is compromised and needs tending. This is one of the biggest problems with trying to do it yourself.

      Either way, you should see a dentist to know why your tooth is not in proper alignment. This way, you’ll also find out the way to fix the problem permanently.

  • neeraj says:

    mere teeth tedhe medhe enhe fix krane ka shi treatment kya h

    (translation: My teeth are deformed. What’s the correct treatment to fix them?)

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Neeraj!

      Let’s see if we can help you.

      There are dozens of treatments for deformed teeth. The treatment depends on of the deformation.

      Braces are often used to move teeth to new positions. Retainers can help reshape a tooth. Surgery is often used for deep bone deformations. Some problems are left alone to fix themselves as we age.

      We would need to know more about your exact problems in order to give a recommendation.

      What we do know want to recommend is visiting a dentist to get an expert opinion on what is happening to your teeth and what the course of treatment is. You have the right to visit several dentists to get the best answer that works for you.

  • Sanga says:

    My lower teeth grows outwards than my upper teeth which changes my face shape.What would I do?

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Sanga! I’m not quite sure what you described.

      If your teeth are growing at an odd angle, then you’ll need to talk to your dentist about options. This is a serious issue and you cannot treat it at home.

      If your facial structure has changed because of it, there we suspect there are several underlying problems that will need to be addressed to know why. Trust your dentist to be able to identify the problem and offer good solutions.

      And if you don’t like that dentist’s solutions, find another dentist.

  • Sunday says:

    Hi,my name is Sunday. I have a gap in front of my teeth and all my bottom are space out. Also, my a) my other teeth next to my big front ones are spaced out,too. I went to an orthodontics to get braces but my insurance didn’t approve of It because they said it is medically not crucial. They said If I had the desire; I had to pay for it but I can’t afford it. It really saddens me to be stuck with my crooked teeth. It just breaks my heart. I don’t know what to do. Please give me some other alternatives to how I can attempt to align my teeth. Thank so much!

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Sunday! Thanks for stopping by.

      We’re sorry to hear an insurance company denied your treatment. We have a couple of recommendations for you.

      First, talk to your dentist. There may be some other therapies that could work. Also, find out whether your dentist thinks this is medically necessary or not.

      Talk to your insurance. It the US, it is illegal and a violation of HIPPA for any person to make a medical decision other than you or your doctor. If your insurance denied you on medical viability, then request to know who that person was and then speak to the HIPPA control officer. Demand to know why your medical file is being reviewed by entities you don’t know of or approve. Sometimes, this will get them to reverse the decision. Sometimes, you’ll need to take it to a higher level of government to respond to the HIPPA violation.

      Don’t try home remedies. If you need braces, home remedies will only make things worse. It could invalidate any insurance payments.

  • Kevin Chan says:

    Hi, I’m 15 and in highschool. I’ve had a tooth that has been pushed pack a bit for a while and I’m looking into alternatives rather than braces. Would another option work or is it to late to fix it?

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Kevin! Thanks for asking!

      First, it’s never too late to fix your teeth. They will move slightly all your life. Using safe methods of adjustment will keep them strong and in your mouth. So, you will need to talk to your dentist about options and why that tooth is out of place.

      Second, there are many options other than braces.

      Retainers and bands are just two of them. Your dentist will know which ones will work best for you. Just know that sometimes braces are needed.

      We don’t recommend you try a fix at home. This could cause more damage to your teeth and may lead to them falling out. Many home fixes are based around the idea that only one tooth is out of place and everything else is normal. Without a dentist, you really don’t know.

  • Ifra says:

    Hey daniel ☺
    Im college student, its really shamful my that My front theets are not in manners two front teeths are in rectangle shaped,cause my two fron teeth I have lost my confidence is there any solution for my front two teeth’s bcz braces are expencise

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Ifra! I’m not sure what you are asking.

      Your front teeth should be rectangular in shape; that is the natural shape. And there is very little that can be done to change the shape of a tooth once it is fully grown.

      Braces will help align teeth to the correct position. If there is a problem with how your teeth are aligned, then braces are a good fix.

      You’ll need to talk to a dentist. Most college campuses have a dentist or work with a dentist to help the student. Many times, this is a reduced cost. We recommend you find out what is going on and the solutions. Once you have that information, you can make an informed decision on how to treat your teeth.

  • Adam. P says:

    I had a root canal on my first molar (top left side) and the crown that was placed was far too big. After one month of grinding my teeth (due to the enormous crown), the crown was finally shaved down back into its original place. However, after having the tooth altered, I noticed all my other teeth have shifted slightly to one side causing a slightly crooked smile… now having the tooth re-placed into its proper place, my lower set of teeth are falling into their original place and clashing with my now shifted top teeth. Will my teeth shift back into their original placement or will they get worse, shift over further and cause an even more noticeable crooked smile? Would a retainer help the situation?

    • Susan says:

      Hey Adam!

      Thank you for your question. We are sorry to hear you had such an unpleasant dental experience.

      We’ll tell you what we think, but only your dentist will be able to tell you fully what will work for your situation. From what you described, it sounds like there was a mistake made during your root canal. That cause the series of other problems which lead to your now shifted teeth.

      It is possible that your teeth will shift back to the original place. It is equally likely that they’ll continue moving out of place. We believe that your dentist will recommend using a retainer or even braces to help return your teeth to where they should be. I know this is not an ideal situation, but it might be one of the better ones in order to help your teeth be in a better situation.

  • Jim says:

    Hi, Doc. Is Invisalign a type of retainer; or, if there is a technical difference in design, not purpose, that distinguishes between aligners and retainers, what is it?

    One more q.: Could an Invisalign pt. compensate for wearing the appliance less than full-time by extending the overall duration of the treatment?

    Thank you!

    • Susan says:

      Hey Jim!

      Good questions.

      Invisalign is a type of aligner, and there are several different purposes that it serves.

      The terms aligners and retainers are being mismatched a lot. In general, the term retainer is used for appliances that are used only to keep the teeth in place after those were already straightened. Invisalign system helps straighten your teeth. There are also Invisalign retainers, which are usually used after the aligners complete their job. Those look similar to the aligners but are designed to keep the teeth in place.

      As for whether it could compensate for another type of treatment is a question for your dentist. We do know many people use Invisalign to realign their teeth and as part of a retaining system to keep their teeth where they belong.

      It is possible that Invisalign could replace other forms of dental appliances. It may not be appropriate for all of them. We do recommend talking to your dentist so you get the full details.

  • Kimberly says:

    I have an overbite I had braces and after my teeth went straight I got retainers that kept the over bite straight and now I have one over bite again because my retainers broke and I wasn’t able to afford to get another pair of retainers but I really don’t want to get braces again and I wonder if I can just get retainers again and just wear them to straighten my teeth

    • Susan says:

      Hey Kimberly!

      I’m glad you asked.

      We would have to say it depends on the type of the size of the overbite. If it is just slight, your dentist may recommend using just retainers. Many of them have come a long way and are much better than braces.

      But, there could be cases where there is more of a problem than just an overbite and you may need braces. This would be something you would need to ask your dentist to see what they would recommend.

      Since there are so many options out there we recommend talking with your dentist to see what yours are.

  • anonymous says:

    Hey everyone, this is not an information portal. Its a few dentists trying to encourage everyone to go to the dentist for any dental problem. There are other blogs and sites explaining how to do some things yourself, safely.

    • Susan says:

      Hi,

      We have been called many things, but never dentist.

      In fact, not a single one of us is a dentist here. While we all do use our dentist, none of us are paid by the dentists to promote them.

      We speak to people all over the world to get them to do what is best for their health.

      Sometimes, you can fix a problem on your own. But like we have said several times before, home fixes can make the problem worse if you don’t know what is going on. That is why we recommend seeing a dentist.

      Once you know properly what is going on, you can take the right steps to fix it. We don’t want you to become another statistic of a home remedy gone wrong.

  • lora says:

    i have the same problems with my teeths sometimes i cant even laugh .. i dont have enaugh m0oney to pay tha braces , in my country they cost to much .. im really sadd.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Lora!

      This can be a real tough situation.

      We recommend you talk to several people to see what your options are.

      The first one will be the dentist who was recommending braces.

      Next, you can find the nearest dental school and see if they have a low-cost program available to help you get the braces.

      Finally, contact your local government office, because many of them have programs that can help people pay for necessary medical and dental procedures.

      Hope it helps.

  • Lindy says:

    Hey i just wanna ask, i have all my teeth aligned except for my right lateral incisor which sucks really bad. Its pushed backwards, is it really possible if I use my tongue or hand to make it align on daily basis?
    how long will it take?
    please please reply ASAP because i really want to get it straight really quick

    • Susan says:

      Hey Lindy!

      This is a good question to ask. Technically, it is possible to push your tooth back into alignment if you do it on a regular basis. Unfortunately, it takes a very long time and very consistent work to be able to accomplish this.

      You run the risk of disrupting the alignment of your other teeth, so if you are going to try this method, you do want to make sure you have a dentist making sure the rest of your teeth remain in good condition.

      Unfortunately, there is no fast way to align teeth. Braces are the most drastic way, and they still take about two years to work.

      The only fast way we know of creating a perfect smile, is to remove the teeth altogether and replace them with dentures or other prosthetics.

  • taylor says:

    is it mandatory to visit the orthondontist if you have retainers. And can you straighten teeth with retainers just by wearing it as a home remedy.

    • Susan says:

      Hi Taylor!

      We’re glad you asked.

      It is not absolutely mandatory to visit an orthodontist to obtain or use retainers. It is in your best interest to do so, because there are problems that can occur that only an orthodontist can help with.

      We strongly recommend you talk to a dentist or orthodontist prior to using at home retainers. There are some issues that only they can handle. They will also be the only ones that can fit a retainer to your teeth properly. Fortunately, once you reach a certain point with your retainer, seeing your orthodontist becomes an infrequent occurrence.

  • Unknown says:

    Hi,
    I have a question about home remedies for crooked teeth…Do they work, and if so which ones should I use?
    (I’ve a crooked left tooth, on the top rank of teeth. The base is straight, but the tooth bottom part is out. (I get teased about it, because a lot of people I know have great teeth…and according to them I don’t. I don’t have the time or money for braces though. I wanted to try a home remedy, but I don’t want to ruin my teeth more in the process.)

    • Susan says:

      Hi!

      Home remedies are generally not recommended unless coming directly from the dentist.

      Recently, there have been deaths associated with using home remedies, particularly two deaths in Thailand from teenagers trying to make homemade braces.

      We do have recommendations for home remedies, but all of them are processed with seeing a dentist first.

      And you are absolutely right to be worried about ruining your teeth if you try a whole process and it doesn’t work. The chances of causing more damage is very high.

      Our recommendation is to talk to a dentist about using home remedies and see what they recommend.

  • nemes says:

    hi..can i ask a question..im 25…i have a crooked teeth, front of my lower teeth..before, i noticed it was only a tooth, but now it’s a teeth, my 2 tooth were crook..can i wear a retainer or it should be a brace?.thanks.,

    • Susan says:

      Hi Nemes!

      Thanks for asking.

      It sounds like you’re having a progressive problem as you are getting older.

      The issues you mentioned may be solved by both braces or a retainer.

      It is something a dentist will have to decide.

      They will also be able to determine the cause of the issue.

  • Humboldt421 says:

    What is the feasibility of an open source software and 3d printed mold being used to create sets of retainers to do teeth straitening? If the software could be used to somehow scan the teeth or process photos of the teeth? There must be a way to import the scans from your dentist then create your own solution? I was just thinking of all the innovators in impoverished paths of life and how this could provide a cheap solution for those uninsured but still of technical means.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Humboldt421!

      You are thinking along the lines of what many of the cutting-edge dental solutions companies are.

      Some of the larger companies are in the process of using 3D printing to create retainers and braces.

      Currently, we are unaware that any of the printed molds have been approved for use.

      As this becomes available, we will update our information.

  • Lily says:

    i have a problem with my canine teeth that pointy and feel weird and creepy while laughing otherwise have really straight and white teeth

    • Susan says:

      Hey Lily!

      Congratulations on having straight and white teeth. This is something many people on this website strive for.

      Your canine teeth are supposed to be pointed.

      The degree that they are pointed can vary. Certainly, they are not supposed to look like a vampire’s teeth.

      Your canines should not extend beyond the neighboring teeth in length, width, or depth.

      We recommend visiting a dentist and making sure your teeth are as they should be, or if there is a solution to help bring your teeth into proportion.

  • Mimi says:

    Hi, is it possible to only put braces on the upper row of teeth because my lower row of teeth is already straight and i have visited the dentist and he says that i will have to pluck out a MINIMUM of 5 teeth if i want to put on braces.Do you think i should still put on braces?

    • Susan says:

      Hey Mimi!

      This is odd.

      It is quite possible to only use braces on either the upper or lower row of teeth. It’s actually rather common.

      What you should get a second opinion on is the removal of certain teeth in order to use braces. That is rather uncommon.

  • Niti Shah says:

    Braces yes or no?
    There is something deeper going on that my small brain cannot understand!
    I use to see High schoolers getting braces in 90’s then the trend went to middle schoolers in 2000’s and now it is elementary kids. Really? How much greed?
    What are orthodontist’s fixing in Elementary aged kids? Their jaw has not even grown.

    • Daniel says:

      Hey Niti!

      Thank you for your question. Braces are something that helped many people, but they are not something for everyone. People of many ages are getting braces, including children and people into their middle ages. This is a decision between them and their dentist. It’s difficult to sit behind a computer screen and try and understand what is happening, but what we do know is the trend right now is to help align the jaw as early as possible so the teeth can grow straight. This may be why you’re seeing elementary children with braces.

  • Heather says:

    My teeth are crooked bad and since I don’t have any dental insurance I can’t get braces and it really freakin sucks cause all my sisters teeth are good and mine aren’t I don’t know how I could get braces or something to fix my crooked teeth

    • Susan says:

      Hey Heather!

      Thank you for your question.

      We’re sorry to hear about your teeth being crooked.

      In many areas, there are dental schools that provide free and low-cost dental treatments, including braces.

      If you are unsure on how to contact one of these schools, call up a local dentist and see what their recommendation is.

      There are also many government agencies that help people pay for dental procedures and many larger cities have a free or low-cost dental clinics.

      Hope this helps.

  • Ishaan says:

    I have two big teeth protruding outside and that really looks awkward.what should i do?

    • Susan says:

      Hey Ishaan!

      This is certainly a problem.

      We recommend talking to your dentist to discover why your teeth are protruding the way they are.

      Then, they can recommend proper treatment in order to straighten your teeth.

      Braces might be an option as well as several other lower cost and easier methods to realign your teeth.

      But, until you know why your teeth are doing what they are doing any recommendation could cause more damage than it helps.

  • Angela says:

    I wore braces for 2 years and then got a retainer and my teeth are still moving slowly moving back to the way they use to be .why is this? Should I switch from a wire retainer to the clear aline nervous type?

    • Daniel says:

      Hey, Angela!

      While uncommon, it is not unheard of for your teeth to move back the way they used to be. It’s possible that your braces were not on long enough for your mouth to have reshaped to where your teeth are supposed to be. Maybe a wire retainer doesn’t provide much tension, which may be why your teeth are moving back. The best retainer is that fix your teeth and won’t let them move to an unwanted position. Talk to your dentist/orthodontist about the best options for keeping your teeth in place.

      Thank you!

  • Roger says:

    Well I wouldn’t say incompetent but sure as hell greedy, they don’t value you unless you could pay. I went to several dentists with medicaid and even though my 2 front bottom teeth teeth are messed and hurt sometimes when I bite, they were not willing to work and lower rates, or help in anyway already knowing you are not able to afford, a cosmetic although in my case, not that reason.

    • Susan says:

      Hey Roger,

      We’re sorry to hear about your troubles.

      Most dentists truly aren’t greedy. With Medicaid, the reimbursement for the amount of work required is often far less than what a small dental office can afford.

      Unfortunately, the government has made the regulations that difficult.

      We recommend looking into a small dental school which may have the resources to aid you.

      And while it may take some travel, larger cities have free and low-cost community dental clinics.

  • Emily says:

    I really need braces but my mum says my teeth r fine but they’re really messed up and she won’t listen to me I really need help

    • Susan says:

      Hey Emily,

      This can be a hard subject to navigate.

      We recommend talking to a dentist. They will be able to discuss your need for braces and any issues you or your mother may have over getting them or not.

      From there, you can have an informed discussion on their necessity.

      Please do not try to straighten your teeth without a dentist, as this can cause further problems and make your teeth worse.

  • Jay F says:

    Hi, I was just looking at some old photos of me, and well BELIEVE IT OR NOT I had straight teeth at one point in my life. Had I known sucking your thumb in confort would cause so much damage to my teeth that I am so uncomfortable with it and it has caused me years of bullying because of it I WOULD HAVE NEVER SUCKED ON MY DARN THUMB…..
    I don’t make much and my moms a single parent who just lost her fiance, I really wish I could do something to get my teeth fixed, if you know any suggestions, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO EMAIL ME!

    • Susan says:

      Hey Jay,

      Many people are unaware of how much sucking your thumb can cause problems. And as a child, you certainly would not have known.

      Thumb sucking is about comfort. Don’t beat yourself up over the past.

      What we can do for the future is recommend talking with a dentist about your options. A dentist would be able to look at your teeth and know if you need braces, or retainer, or a simpler fix.

      Sometimes, your teeth may go back on their own. Since there are financial constraints, dental schools, and low-cost clinics may be an option in order to get a consultation or even have the problem fixed.

  • Wow, very informative. I learned a lot of new things in the
    dental world… thanks again for this post.

  • Violet says:

    I have a pretty noticeable overbite, but my parents feel that I don’t need braces, and won’t take me to an orthodontist. ( they think braces are too expensive)I feel uncomfortable with my overbite, which is why I hate smiling

    • Susan says:

      Hey Violet!

      This is quite a problem.

      On the one side, an overbite can be a problem that can last your whole life, but it is easily correctable with braces. On the other side, braces are very expensive.

      If you feel you’re having issues because of the overbite, whether physical pain, trouble eating, or just feeling uncomfortable, we recommend talking to your parents about visiting a dentist to see what options you have.

      Sometimes, braces are unnecessary. Many dentists and orthodontists will also work with you to help you get reduced cost procedures for people who cannot afford it.

      What we do not recommend is doing something on your own, whether it be seeking out a dentist or orthodontist, or trying an at-home fix.

      You want to correct this the right way, even if you have to wait until you are an adult.

  • Kevin says:

    If I was to use the toungue technique, how long would I have to keep it in place?

    • Susan says:

      Hey Kevin!

      A lot of people use their tongue to push their teeth back in place.

      It requires a great deal of concentration, dedication, and persistence.

      Depending on your age, background, and your level of dedication to this technique, it can take a few days to many years before you can move your teeth into proper place.

      And that is assuming that you do not have a prior issue that is pushing them out of place.

      For example, if you grind your teeth, especially at night, you’ll have several hours of pushing your teeth out of place, which requires at least double the amount of time to put them back in.

      So basically, you’ll be spending your entire day to undo what you did at night.

      We recommend you visit a dentist to examine your teeth. He will be able to tell if this technique may work for you and also show you how to properly use the tongue technique to put your teeth in place.

  • aisha says:

    I have a problem I have a extra teeth in my mouth means teeth abouve teeth I am so worried

    • Daniel says:

      Hello, Aisha!

      Don’t worry! Many people have these problems. Oftentimes, extra teeth can be removed or the baby teeth can be extracted if the adult teeth have grown on top of them. I’ve also had this problem in the past and my extra teeth were removed, 4 in total. Don’t be afraid, today the process of tooth extraction is not painful at all if you’re doing it under proper anesthesia. Even when I perform my deep teeth cleaning at my hygienist, I ask her to put a little bit of anesthetic ointment on my gums. It’s very helpful and eliminates pain. In most cases, your dentist should not recommend braces until you remove those extra teeth. We want to recommend you visit your dentist for final advice. There may be several reasons why your teeth are not in place. It could be serious issues, or something simple. Talking with your dentist will be able to give you solutions and express any issues you have with expenses.

      Thank you!

  • Bigyan says:

    Question: what if front 2 teeth are misaligned from childhood
    Can we push it now also?

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Bigyan!

      This is a good question.

      Most people have teeth that are misaligned from their childhood.

      Fortunately, throughout our lives are teeth can move slightly.

      We can realign our teeth at any age.

      I would talk to a dentist to see what your best options are.

      They would be able to tell you exactly what is causing the misalignment, how to fix it, the cost, and any side effects you may experience.

  • Snehal says:

    Hey Daniel,
    I had my tooth removed a year ago and now I feel like my lower teeth are going backwards or probably my front teeth are coming out. Either way I can clearly see my face looking different than before the tooth removal. Does that happen? That teeth move backward after one tooth removal? Is there a way to stop that? I am going to get new tooth fixed though but till then what can be done to stop the movement?

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Snehal!

      Throughout our lives, our teeth move ever so slightly.

      When your one tooth was removed, it caused the rest of your teeth to try and fill the gap.

      The way they move will depend on the reason why the tooth had to be removed in the first place. It will also depend on the way your teeth were prior to having the tooth removed.

      It’s not uncommon to have your teeth move like that.

      In order to stop the movement, you would have to talk to your dentist about why your teeth are moving the way they are in the first place. The both of you can then determine the best course of action to make sure your teeth are healthy and functioning properly.

  • Meagan says:

    So are the chances of straightening one tooth with a mouthguard/retainer/etc good enough to buy one?

    • Susan says:

      Hey Meagan!

      For once we can say yes, we believe that if you have only one tooth out of alinement, a retainer from your dentist might be enough to straighten that one tooth.

      It is something you will have to do with your dentist to make sure you get the proper mouth guard or retainer and it is made appropriately to straighten the tooth.

  • dantay lees says:

    im constantly picked on by bullies at school because the say “you have a snaggle tooth” or “no wonder you dont have friends because you are so ugly” i mean i have few freinds but come on man there is no need for an insult to injury i have been trying to push my croked tooth back in and only saw minor improvements and my dentists appiontment is coming up on jan 26 18 and im hoping i can get braces by 2019 (9th grade)

    • Susan says:

      Hey Dantay!

      The beginning of high school is a really tough time.

      Generally, bullies will pick on something that you are already uncomfortable with and once they find a target that makes you so uncomfortable, they will continue on it relentlessly. As hard as it is, we recommend ignoring the comment. Retaliation will only make things worse.

      Do continue with your dentist appointment and you will be able to discuss with your dentist the best course of action to fix your teeth.

      We recommend you read this article on snaggleteeth to see you are not alone with this kind of smile.

  • Los says:

    I have a very slight crooked tooth whats a cheap easy way to fix it

    • Susan says:

      Hey Los!

      Crooked teeth can be a pain.

      We recommend visiting a dentist to figure out why your tooth is not straight and what they recommend as a treatment.

      Many at home treatments could make the problem worse or cause further damage if you don’t know what the problem is.

  • Disha says:

    I have one tooth on the upper jaw that is not in align with the other theeth. I want to ask does finger pressure can fix it and if yes in what time it could do like a year or more.

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Disha!

      This is a curious question. When using the same pressure for a long period of time on specific place, the teeth will move into the desired position. This is how the the braces work. Using your finger as a source of such pressure is a bad idea. You cannot create the equal and constant pressure by your fingers. Sometimes you will press stronger, sometimes weaker. Even if your teeth were moving in that cases, after some period of time when you stopped the pressure, the teeth moved to their initial places back. We do not recommend trying this technique. Also, if you apply the pressure wrong, it could damage the teeth and could make the problem worse. Talk to your orthodentist first and see what solutions they present.

      Thank you!

  • Lia says:

    My teeth have always been super wonky and it makes me nervous when I have to talk in front of people but my dentist says I shouldn’t get braces if I only want the cosmetic appeal. My jaw is really crowded and painful but the dentist won’t do anything about it.

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Lia!

      We recommend getting a second opinion from another orthodontist. If there’s pain, that is a good reason for your orthodentist to recommend braces. Getting a second opinion and having that opinion explained will lead you to make an informed decision about whether or not to pursue braces.

  • vyshu says:

    Hi I actually have a problem with my top front right teeth, which was little broken in my childhood and had a root canal treatment after many years of that accident, and nowadays that is changing to black color because its lack of blood circulation and totally turned to a dead teeth it is very annoying situation for me to laugh in front of the people and friends and even I can’t give a fake smile .So plz help and let me know that how can I overcome my problem.

    • Susan says:

      Hey, Vyshu!

      I don’t think that your teeth turning black because of previous root canal treatment and lack of blood circulation as you said. I also have many “dead teeth” as you said but they’ve not changed the color to be black. Do you make regular teeth cleaning? I mean by the professional hygienist, not by you. You have to do that 2 times a year as a minimum. Do you smoke cigarettes? This is also may be a reason for your black teeth. Look for methods of teeth whitening and try them. If it doesn’t help, visit your dentist as soon as possible.

      Thank you!

  • anonymous says:

    Hi, a few days ago I knocked my front tooth on the door frame (accidentally). After knocking my tooth it became quite lose a few days later my tooth was tight on again, but now it is crooked and leaning forwards out of the mouth. Any ideas on how to fix my tooth would be much appreciated.
    Thank you

    • Susan says:

      Hey!

      That sounds like a painful problem. We recommend contacting a dentist as soon as possible. Many times a loose tooth will repair itself, but as you have noticed, it might not align itself correctly as it once did. A dentist would know if there is damage to the roots and structural components that might require having a retainer to maintain the position of the tooth until it heals itself. Fortunately, if you get in to see a dentist fast enough, it will recover in a correct place, and you can avoid expensive fixes, like braces.

  • Khalifa Man says:

    Hello.i need your help .my top teeth is not straighten like I see my friends thiers.the front 4 teeth is not straight and I feel shy when am laughing .please going to cost to fix it .please can u tell me the cost .i will be happy to hearing from u because I love your blog thank u yours sincerely Khalifa

    • Susan says:

      Hey Khalifa!

      Depending on the cause of the misalignment, the cost to fix it could vary widely. This might be something that a dentist or orthodontist corrects with a retainer, or it might be something that requires full-fledged braces. The cost could be anywhere from $100 US to several thousand dollars. This is a question that you should ask your dentist or orthodontist. Then you will know exactly what procedures you will need to straighten your teeth and what the cost of the fix will be. Here we have related article on braces cost. Hope it will help you more.

      Thank you!

  • Khalifa Man says:

    Some turns I feel pains it really sucks ???.contact those docs in my locality and they are not minding me so I want to see the cost so that I can travel to the next town thank u

    • Susan says:

      Hey Khalifa Man!

      As we answered to you previously, the cost could vary widely. It depends on your problem and type of the treatment. It can be anywhere from $100 US to several thousand dollars. You should visit a few dentists or orthodontists in your area, get their advice and price offer and decide where you’re going to make a treatment.

  • SD says:

    Hi, I have the habit of sucking my lower lip when i am asleep. I had this habit every since i was a baby and have never found a way to get rid of it. Due to which my upper two front teeth have started to come forwards ( somewhat like bunny teeth but they are not so protruding ). I am worried if they will start protruding completely and change my smile. I don’t wish to have braces. But would be really glad if retainer or aligners would work for me.

    It would be great to know your advice.
    Regards,
    SD

    • Susan says:

      Hey SD!

      This can be a difficult question to answer. We recommend you talk to your dentist about why you may be sucking on your lower lip. They may be able to recommend a retainer or a mouthguard that will prevent you from sucking in your lip. It will be easier and better for you in the long run to break the habit then fix the problems. But, until you know why the problem exists, it’ll be difficult to break the habit.

  • Zabir Ahmed says:

    Two of my front teeth has not been in the right position so will it be strengthened with braces or can I make it in home

    • Susan says:

      Hey Zabir!

      The braces should help straighten out your front teeth. It may take time, but your orthodontist should adjust any problems, including the placement of your two front teeth. We don’t recommend making your own adjustments at home. You don’t have proper instruments and cannot do it to yourself.

  • neeraj sharma says:

    i want my teeth to go inside . for this i cannot smile properly also .
    please help me
    thank you

    • Susan says:

      Hey Neeraj!

      We’re not exactly sure what you mean, but we recommend speaking to a dentist for properly aligning your teeth. If you have multiple teeth that stick out at odd angles, it may require more extensive dental work then what simple home fixes can handle. There may be other options available to you other than braces that your dentist will be able to recommend. Good luck with your teeth.

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