Very few people develop perfectly straight teeth as they grow into adolescence and adulthood. Unlike the “old days” in which metal braces were the only answer to straightening crooked teeth, now with innovative short-term orthodontics, straighter teeth can be achieved more quickly and less painfully.

Teenagers and adults, alike, are seeking out short-term orthodontics in Spokane, Washington, to straighten their teeth, align their bite, and achieve the dazzling smile they’ve always wanted.

close up of a young adult woman putting her invisalign in her mouth

Advantages of Short-Term Orthodontics

Why are short-term orthodontics such as Invisalign® the preferred method to straighten teeth?

  • Invisalign® clear aligners are practically invisible—hence the name
  • They are more comfortable than metal braces
  • They don’t cause any of the discomforts that sometimes occur with metal braces
  • They don’t have to be worn as long as traditional braces
  • They can be removed while eating
  • They don’t require the intricate cleaning that metal braces do
  • The results are just as dramatic as the results achieved with metal braces

A Progressive Treatment That’s Changing Lives

One of the most exciting aspects of short-term orthodontics is that with ever-evolving computer programs, advanced dental technology, and newer materials to construct short-term orthodontics, the options available to people just like you only keep getting better.

If you have been considering exploring short-term orthodontics in Spokane, Washington, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how many choices you’ll have to achieve beautifully straight teeth.

While short-term orthodontics (often referred to as STO) is most often the preferred treatment option for people who want to improve the look of their front teeth, other teeth and the alignment of the teeth will be improved, also, with short-term orthodontics.

If you have a misaligned bite, TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder), or damaged teeth from trauma to the mouth due to an accident or blow to the face, short-term orthodontics may not be the first choice to improve the function and aesthetics of your mouth, teeth, and jaw. Your Spokane, Washington, Invisalign® dentist and orthodontist will work collaboratively to create a treatment plan designed especially for you. After performing a thorough evaluation and listening to your goals, your dental team will work together to achieve the look you want while enhancing the function of your mouth.

What Short-Term Orthodontics Fix

With cosmetic goals typically being the main reason for STO, these dental issues are most often corrected with Invisalign® and other short-term orthodontics:

  • Gaps between teeth
  • Protruding teeth
  • Teeth that are set back
  • Crooked teeth
  • Overcrowded teeth
  • Underbite
  • Overbite
  • Crossbite

What is the STO Process?

Think of short-term orthodontics as a progressive journey your teeth will take by gradually shifting into their optimal position using a series of clear aligners that will be replaced over time. Once the first set of aligners does its job by shifting your teeth gradually into a certain position, a new set of aligners will be created for you. You will wear those aligners until their work is done. Then, your next set of aligners will be worn until your teeth have achieved the desired position that was discussed at the start of your journey.

With the amazing skills of your Spokane comprehensive dentist and the advanced dental technology that shows you the progression of your teeth each step of the way, you will have a beautifully straight smile in just a few months. Please keep in mind that not every patient’s teeth move at the same rate, and some patients will achieve their desired goals more quickly than others.

The beauty of this individualized approach to straightening smiles is one of the most appealing aspects of short-term orthodontics. There’s no cookie-cutter approach, and your journey and end result will be uniquely your own.

Learn More About Invisalign® and Short-Term Orthodontics in Spokane, WA

If you want straighter teeth and a more stunning smile, please call Dr. Marnie Collins and Dr. Ken Collins at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics serving Spokane, Washington, and surrounding areas (509) 532-1111. You may also fill out our online contact form, and one of our team members will reach out to answer questions or schedule a new patient evaluation.