Are Composite Fillings for Tooth Gaps the Best Solution?

If you're one of the 75% of Canadians that get dental check-ups annually, then it's a given that you care about the state of your teeth. Still, it can be discouraging when you see large gaps in your mouth each time you smile. While composite fillings and braces have long been hailed as the best solution to tooth gaps, there's an even more better treatment option: invisible aligners. Here, we're going to talk about the many benefits of this treatment plan and compare it to other solutions. Read on to discover why clear aligners might be for you!

What Are the Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings?

For many years, composite fillings have been treated as the best solution for tooth gaps. These fillings, made from white resin or similar plastics, are used to fill these gaps by inserting them into the teeth surrounding them. Experts put this plastic into the tooth in liquid form and allow it to mold and solidify any imperfections. The main benefit of this solution is that the plastic is superior to other filling alternatives. It's durable and doesn't chip or break easily. There are many problems with composite fillings, however. They don't really do anything to actively fix your tooth gaps, but rather are largely cosmetic. This is like slapping a band-aid on a permanent wound. It isn't a long-term solution. Because of this, composite fillings don't help to eliminate the jaw pain and headaches that come with tooth gaps. They simply make it look as though the gaps aren't there. They also have a short lifespan- only 5 to 7 years- so you'll need to go to the doctor and go through the uncomfortable filling process more often than you'd probably like to.

Are Braces a Better Solution?

Not really. Braces come with their own set of issues that composite fillings do not. Braces- even clear ones- can be seen by others as you go about your everyday life. While they're a right of passage for tweens and teens, braces can cause embarrassment for adults. This can lead to issues with overall self-esteem and make those who wear them ashamed to smile. They also are uncomfortable, require a lot of maintenance, and are incredibly restrictive. Luckily, there is an alternative that solves these issues: clear aligners.

Clear Aligners: An Alternative Treatment for Tooth Gaps

Clear aligners are custom-fit plastic correctors that fit snugly around your teeth. The goal is to use them to reconfigure your teeth and correct the gaps in your smile. This is a long-term and non-invasive solution that solves the problems that gaps pose. It's more than a cosmetic procedure- it serves to reduce the risk of TMJ and correct your bite permanently. It also is completely invisible, so you don't need to lose confidence in your smile! This is different from Invisalign. We offer direct to customers aligners, while Invisalign operates via a physical appointment at a dentist's office. The process of getting clear aligners is simple. First, you will consult with our specialists to outline a custom treatment plan. This will show you what your bite will look like post-correction. After that, a dental expert will review and approve your treatment plan. Then our team will get to work on your treatment, including the creation of an aligner that works for you. When all is said and done, you will have access to 24/7 support from our Smile Specialist team, so there's nothing to worry about. For only /month, you can get started with this top-notch treatment. This easy instalment plan accepts all major payment modes, so check out our page to learn more!

The Benefits of Clear Aligners

Now that you know what invisible aligners for tooth gaps are, you likely see why they're the best way to straighten teeth. Great! Still, you may be wondering about the specific ways that they're superior to other solutions. Read on to learn why you should choose clear aligners to make your smile as bright as can be!

Easy to Use

Clear aligners are incredibly easy to use for straightening teeth. All you need to do is use them whenever possible while going about your daily life. Composite fillings will need to be replaced every few years, which is an uncomfortable process. Additionally, unlike braces, you won't need to get your aligners adjusted at an orthodontics office. While occasional checkups are a smart idea, you're unlikely to encounter any issues as long as you use them as prescribed. You also can take them out at mealtimes. Composite fillings and clear braces are restrictive in that you won't be able to eat certain foods for fear that they'll a) crack the filling's resin, or b) get stuck in the braces' wires. With clear aligners, you can remove them while you eat the popcorn or caramel that you crave!

They Last As Long As Needed

Composite fillings have an average lifespan of 5-7 years. However, these fillings do nothing to actually correct your teeth, so you will need to replace them at this interval. On the other hand, invisible aligners don't need to be replaced unless they are damaged. Even if you do want to replace them after a while, this is a totally non-invasive process. No fillings need to be applied. You won't need to worry about aligners decaying or needing to be replaced in an invasive and uncomfortable way.

Minimal Discomfort

While you will experience mild discomfort right after getting your clear aligners, this isn't going to last for long. You'll quickly get used to them. Not only are invisible aligners custom-made to fit your mouth, but the edges are trimmed down to ensure that there are no sharp points. Composite fillings will ache and braces will make your entire mouth sore after every fitting. On the flip side, you generally won't even notice that your invisible aligners are thereafter the first few days.

Straighten Your Smile Today

While composite fillings and braces have been used for a long time, it's time to redefine what it means to fix tooth gap issues and correct your bite. Now that you know why clear aligners are the best solution for tooth gaps, it is time to get started. Get a free assessment to see if you're a candidate for invisible aligners. Our team is excited to work with you to make you confident in your smile again, so fill out this form and contact us with any lingering questions that you may have.