A Detailed Look into Different Orthodontic Treatments That Can Give You a Healthy Smile
Having crooked teeth, misaligned teeth, or any other orthodontic issue can ruin your smile. However, aesthetics is not the only problem that you need to worry about. Having an improper bite can lead to poor digestion. Also, cleaning crooked teeth can be a daunting task, and there is a chance that you might not clean them as well as you should. This can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. You should visit our Randolph dentist if you have any orthodontic issues.
In the past, traditional metal braces were the only orthodontic treatment that people knew. Many people believed it to be a treatment that was more suitable for children. But now, more and more people have understood the importance of dental health and are seeking all the treatments available.
Fast Facts About Orthodontics
At the heart of orthodontic treatment is creating a healthy and functional bite. This can only be achieved by looking at the jaw’s position and your teeth’s alignment. The whole idea is that your jaw and teeth line up the way they should so that your mouth can function as designed. The attractive smile is the cherry on top.
There is also dentofacial orthopedics, which our children’s dentist near you offers. This involves the guidance of facial development and facial growth. Dentofacial orthopedics is mostly done in children.
Malocclusion (misalignment) can cause you to have difficulty chewing and adds stress on your jaw muscles, which can lead to TMJ syndrome or headaches.
Do You Need Orthodontic Treatment?
When you visit our dentist, you will be informed whether you need orthodontic treatment. However, you are likely to receive treatment if you have any of the following issues:
- Spacing
- Open bite
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Misplaced midline
- Crowded teeth
What Can Our Orthodontist Do for You?
Our orthodontist’s goal is to achieve the following:
- Straighten crooked teeth
- Boost the health of your gums and teeth
- Close wide gaps in between your teeth
- Align the tips of your teeth
- Treat improper bite
For these goals to be achieved, our orthodontist will need to use a range of dental devices.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
The devices that are used fall into two major categories: fixed and removable appliances.
Here are some of the appliances we use to fix different orthodontic issues:
- Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces have evolved so much ever since they were invented. Now, they are lighter and more effective. They are fashioned from high-grade stainless steel. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that are designed to move your teeth.
The brackets are cemented on your teeth, while a thin archwire links one bracket to another, thus putting pressure on your teeth. This constant pressure moves your teeth to their correct positions. With every visit, the braces are tightened using ligature or O-rings (tiny elastics), which connect the archwires.
- Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are just like conventional metal braces. The major difference between them is that lingual braces are fitted in the inner surfaces of your teeth, making them invisible when you smile. They come in different types and can be used according to your needs. In other words, if you need to straighten only six teeth, they have got you covered.
- Invisalign®
Invisalign are clear aligners that can be used to move teeth to their correct location. They are used as an alternative for metal braces. They are clear plastic trays that are discreet, and most adults love them because of their aesthetic appeal.
They come in a set of customizable trays that you will need to wear for 12 months or more, depending on your specific case.
- Clear Braces
These braces are less visible and aesthetically pleasing as compared to metal braces. They are also referred to as ceramic braces. They are similar to metal braces, but the only difference is that they use tooth-colored brackets rather than the traditional metallic silver or gray brackets and wires.
In Closing
Whether you need discreet treatment or want colorful braces, you have a variety of choices. Either way, it is important to seek orthodontic treatment. You can contact our dentist at Randolph Dental Group if you wish to seek treatment for orthodontic issues.