Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the straightening of misaligned teeth, crooked teeth, or malocclusions. An orthodontist specifically deals with tooth and jaw alignment. They are trained to diagnose and treat oral health conditions of your teeth, gums, and mouth. But their main area of expertise is to make sure your teeth and jaw are set correctly. Orthodontic treatments include cosmetic procedures to correct your smile.
What are the benefits of Orthodontics?
- The most vital benefit of orthodontic treatment is an improved appearance. When you look presentable, it automatically boosts your emotional and mental health. It gives you the self-confidence to face the world positively.
- Poor oral hygiene will have a major impact on your inter-personal relationships. An aligned set of teeth will make you more attractive and take more care of your overall dental health. Additionally, properly aligned teeth save you the stress of food particles getting lodged between the teeth and causing cavities and plaques. If you compromise your oral health and hygiene, it may cause periodontal diseases as well.
- In case you have decided to wear braces to align your teeth, it's best to visit an orthodontist as they are specialists in this field. They will first evaluate your teeth by taking x-rays and digital scans to provide you with the appropriate treatment. The braces have brackets that are attached to the teeth along with an archwire. The braces are adjusted periodically until the desired alignment is achieved.
- Orthodontists also treat migraines, sleep apnea, chewing pain, and jaw popping beside the teeth alignment. When the teeth are aligned properly, the jaw is restored to its natural position, thus saving you from pain.
Name some of the common orthodontic procedures?
- Traditional Braces: They are one of the most common orthodontic procedures. These braces consist of metal brackets placed on your teeth with an adhesive and connected by an archwire. These wires have to be tightened periodically every four to six weeks so that the pressure can steadily straighten the teeth and align the jaw. This entire treatment can take a few months or a year or so. Most children and teens are benefitted from this treatment.
- Retainers: After removing braces, the bone and soft tissues need time to adjust to the changed tooth's positioning. The retainers help steady the teeth in their new positions and help prevent their shifting or keep it to a minimum.
- Orthodontic Elastics:These are elastic rubber bands that stretch over tiny loops on the braces' top and bottom brackets. They have to be worn constantly to keep steady pressure on the teeth to guide them to the desired position. These elastics can be removed while eating your food.
- Lingual Braces:They serve the same purpose as the traditional braces but are fixed behind the teeth instead of in the front. It offers an alternative for those who are conscious about wearing braces as they are hidden from view. A beautiful smile can be achieved without being self-conscious about wearing them.
- Invisalign:These are invisible aligners that straighten the teeth without being obvious to the other person. It offers an unobtrusive way to get an aligned set of teeth.
Call us at West Valley Natural Dentistry or schedule an online appointment to know more about Orthodontics.
