Teeth Bands Versus Invisalign for Gap Between Front Teeth?

asked 10 months ago by anon
Latest answer by Scott LeSueur, DDS
Question viewed 474 times
Tags: teeth, adjust, aligner, braces, comparison, long-term, problem, results, side effects, straighten

Why would invisalign be a better option for straightening a gap between two front teeth over teeth bands? (http://www.teethgap.com/) Is it important to consider the alignment of the other teeth as well during a teeth straightening process? If I choose to close the gap between my front teeth with these $20 bands, will my other teeth shift in an undesired way that may cause problems later on?

5 answers to Teeth Bands Versus Invisalign for Gap Between Front Teeth?

Closing a gap with Invisalign

Bands will work to close a gap between your front teeth. The unwanted effects of these may be that the angle of the teeth is not right after closing the gap. Also, you may hit your lower front teeth against the backs of the upper teeth when done with the band. Lastly, how will you keep the gap closed in the future? You may end up having to wear the bands long term to retain the space closure. That is bad for your gums and can cause bone loss and gum recession. Invisalign is a refined and... more

Deborah Petronio, DDS
East Aurora Cosmetic Dentist

Teeth bands- are they acceptable for space closure vs Invisalign

Be very careful on this one as there have been some very sad results from unsupervised and even supervised use of teeth bands( which have included tooth loss). A space can be closed, but the results generally are a trade off of space in another place or a bite problem or even a twist due to inadequate control of the tooth movements. Invisalign gives good control of all movements and is removable for cleaning and eating and gives much better results in a far safer manner... more

Scott LeSueur, DDS
Mesa Cosmetic Dentist

Buyer Beware

You need to tread very carefully when considering OTC methods to treat real dental issues. There is very little, if any, independant research to verify the safety and efficacy of so many dental products I see sold online. I have seen patients in my office that have suffered negative consequences from self-treatment using these types of products. If you want to move forward with treatment, first you need to diagnose why you have the gap. If you have a... more

Gary Nack, DDS
Philadelphia Cosmetic Dentist

Bands to close spaces

If you are referring to placing an elastic between the front two teeth without the supervision of an orthodontist, it is areally bad idea. You have no control with these elastics, and the other teeth will certainly move. Invisalign is a way to close spaces in a controlled, slow, safe manner. You will also need to consider a retainer to keep the space closed once treatment is completed.

Michael Minars, DMD
Miami Orthodontist

Teeth bands are below the standard of care

People can self administer anything they want, but it is considered unsafe for dentists to use teeth bands. Unsupervised use has lead to loss of teeth, as the bands often migrate down the roots of teeth. Patients are often blissfully unaware until too late, and any savings in money is negated as the expense to replace teeth is much higher. Dentists using these are often inexperienced and are unaware of the risks. I would strongly advise against it.

Lance Timmerman, DMD
Seattle Cosmetic Dentist

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