Dr. Lawrence Wang runs Madison Square Dentistry in Manhattan, which specializes in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Dr. Wang is committed to using the most non-invasive procedures to improve your teeth. Unlike veneers, which require removing part of the tooth enamel, six-month braces align your natural teeth without chipping the enamel away. They are most appropriate for adults who want to improve their smile.
I get this question a lot: “I have crooked teeth, but I feel like braces are for kids. What are my options?”
Unwilling to go through the traditional two-year braces procedure, a rite of passage for scores of 11-year-olds? Don’t like the hefty price tag of veneers and the fact that they grind down your tooth enamel?
Or you could try either Invisalign or six-month braces.
Six-month braces, sold under the brand name Six Month Smiles, are put on for about four to nine months (not all of us are the same, after all) and are tooth-colored, so you don’t see them unless you’re looking really closely. Their thin, tooth-colored wire is made of nickel titanium and the brackets are clear plastic. Less expensive than traditional braces (regular braces will set you back $6,000 to $8,000, six-month braces about $5,000), they focus on the front teeth — the teeth people see when you smile, or what healthcare professionals call “the aesthetic zone.”
Despite the short treatment time, six-month braces move teeth with a subtle, low force and carefully designed technology, resulting in less discomfort than is normally associated with traditional braces. Because they are not meant to make significant changes to your bite or jaw alignment, they’re faster, comfortable, and require fewer visits to your dentist. This can lower the risk of damage to teeth and roots, as these braces are lighter and usually require less preparation than traditional braces. Post-treatment, you will be fitted with a retainer to ensure the longevity of your smile.
At Madison Square Dentistry, we accept most insurance plans and offer convenient payment plans that can help you finance your new smile.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
