What Can Orthodontics Fix?

What Can Orthodontics Fix? This is a common question that is asked at our practice! Crooked teeth or misaligned jaws can make it difficult to chew and speak correctly and may lead to breathing and swallowing problems.

A qualified orthodontist can diagnose your specific orthodontic issue and recommend the best course of treatment. In many cases, orthodontic treatment can correct the problem and improve your quality of life.

Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth are the most common reason that people seek out orthodontic treatment. If your teeth are crooked, it can not only make your smile look less attractive, but it can also lead to problems with your bite (the way your teeth come together when you chew). Crooked teeth can also make it challenging to keep them clean, leading to tooth decay or gum disease.

Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth are another principal reason that people seek out orthodontic treatment. If your teeth are too close together, it can make your smile look less attractive and lead to problems with your bite. Crowded teeth can also make it challenging to keep them clean, leading to tooth decay or gum disease.

Overbite

Overbite is a malocclusion (teeth misalignment) that occurs when the upper teeth bite too far over the lower teeth. In some cases, the overbite is due to genetics or habits such as thumb sucking. However, other issues can result from an underlying medical condition such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Overbites can range from mild to severe and cause several problems if left untreated. These problems can include pain in the jaw and face, difficulty chewing and speaking, and even tooth loss. In severe cases, overbites can lead to respiratory problems and sleep apnea.

Underbite

An underbite is when your lower teeth overlap your upper teeth too much. An underbite can make your smile look less attractive and lead to pain in your jaw joint (TMJ).

Open Bite

An open bite is when there is a space between your upper and lower teeth when you bite down. A recessed edge can make it difficult to chew correctly and lead to pain in your jaw joint (TMJ).

Orthodontic treatment can typically fix all of these problems! For example, if you are self-conscious about your smile or experiencing pain in your jaw, Orthodontics could be the answer for you.

Monitor your child’s dental development

An orthodontist will assist you in charting the development of your child’s teeth, jaws, and face development. Doing so lets you know if your child’s dental development is proceeding as it should. If any problems are detected early, treatment can be provided sooner and may be less invasive.

During the initial assessment, the Orthodontist will examine your child’s teeth and jaws and take X-rays if necessary. They will then discuss with you whether or not treatment is needed and, if so, what the best course of action would be.

If you are concerned about your child’s dental development or if they are experiencing any problems with their teeth or jaws, please don’t hesitate to contact us to book an assessment.

The Benefits of Early Treatment

Early treatment (also known as “interceptive treatment”) refers to Orthodontic treatment that is provided early before all the adult teeth have come in.

There are many benefits to early treatment, including:

• It can make future Orthodontic treatment simpler and shorter
• It can improve the overall appearance of the teeth and jaws
• It can help to avoid more severe problems from developing
• It can improve the function of the teeth and jaws

The Different Types of Braces

There are a variety of different types of braces that help straighten teeth, depending on the individual’s needs. The type of braces the Orthodontist recommends for you or your child depends on several factors, including the severity of the misalignment, the age of the patient, and personal preferences.

The most common types of braces are:

• Metal braces are the most visible type of braces, but they are also the most effective. They are made from high-grade stainless steel or titanium alloy and are very strong and durable.
• Ceramic braces – these are made from a transparent or tooth-colored ceramic material, which makes them less visible than metal braces. They are just as effective as metal braces but can be more susceptible to breakage.
• Invisalign – these are made from a transparent plastic material, which makes them virtually invisible. They are less noticeable than metal or ceramic braces.
• Lingual braces – these are placed on the inside surfaces of the teeth (the “lingual” side). Therefore, making them invisible from the outside. They can be more challenging to clean and may not be suitable for everyone.

Wrapping Up

An orthodontist is essential not only for cosmetic reasons but also to ensure that your mouth is healthy. Your specialist can help with anything from crowded teeth to overbites and underbites. In addition, you may need to see an orthodontist if you have difficulty chewing or if your jaws make clicking sounds. An untreated bite can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.

Orthodontic treatment helps correct a wide variety of dental and facial irregularities. The goal of treatment is to create a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile that will last a lifetime. Contact us today to learn more.