Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with improper positioning of teeth. A person may have an over bite, under bite, overcrowding of teeth, crooked teeth or a jaw misalignment—which could cause eating or speech problems. In such cases, orthodontic treatments are recommended to slowly change the positioning of the teeth to be straighter and more aligned. Orthodontics can also be used for cosmetic purposes if the person wishes to have a better smile.
A person may be born with malocclusion or a bad bite, or they may obtain it over time through injury or habits, such as sucking their thumb as a child. Whatever the problem may be, it is important to treat it right away. Malocclusion or a “bad bite” can be capable of causing you oral health problems in the long run.
What are the benefits of Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is important because misaligned teeth or improper positioning can lead to a higher risk of tooth decay and gingivitis. An improper bite can make teeth harder to teach or more painful to floss, leading to poor oral hygiene in those particular regions—which can affect your oral health.
Orthdontics is an effective treatment method that can be used to:
- Close gaps between teeth
- Ensure that your teeth and jaw are properly aligned
- Straighten crooked teeth
- Improve oral function (such as eating or speech)
- Mend improper bites
How do you know if you need an Orthodontic treatment plan?
Dentists can tell if a patient requires orthodontic work by looking at their dental history, taking a plaster model of their teeth and/or taking X-rays of their teeth. If a dentist recommends orthodontic work, he or she will recommend you to an orthodontist who can provide you with a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Within our 123Dentist Community Network, we have dentists and orthodontists to help you with any of your treatment needs.
Orthodontic treatment plans usually consist of an orthodontic tool that can gently straighten out your teeth. Examples of orthodontic tools are braces, aligners, retainers, head gear, or Invisalign®. These tools require care and maintenance to produce proper results. Your Orthodontist will provide you with specific instructions along with your treatment in order for you to get the best results.
If you have any questions concerning what type of Orthodontic treatment options may be available for you, visit any of the 123Dentist location’s listed above today! Our knowledgeable staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our Orthodontic treatment options.
