Studies show that many people need orthodontic treatment in the United States alone. The goal is to have a healthier, more beautiful smile. An orthodontist is a kind of dentist who has more training to fix poorly aligned teeth. Keep reading to learn more about your orthodontic options.
Both environmental factors and genetics play a role in whether or not teeth will be crooked. With hereditary factors, a patient might have gaps or crooked teeth. It might also include crowding and malocclusions, or bad bites. Environmental factors like tongue thrusting or thumb-sucking can also cause issues. Plus, an accident can knock the teeth out of alignment.
There are three different stages of orthodontic treatment. The first stage involves using appliances to make more space in the mouth. For instance, a patient might have a palatal expander to widen the palate. Or lingual bars might be used to expand the width of the lower jaw.
The next stage is the active correction stage. That involves placing the braces on the patient’s teeth. This will straighten and adjust the teeth. Over a period of time, jaw problems will also be corrected. The length of time for this stage will depend on the issues and the irregularity of each tooth.
The last stage of orthodontic treatment is perhaps one of the most important. It involves retention once the braces come off. A retainer will be used to keep the teeth in place. Either a fixed or a removable one will be used. The patient will still visit the orthodontist a few times a year to keep the teeth straight.
In the past, having braces meant there would be large metal bands around each of the teeth. But today, there is only a bracket that is attached to one side of the teeth. The brackets are most commonly attached to the cheek or visible portion. But the brackets can also go on the interior side of the teeth. These are known as lingual braces.
Some brackets might be made out of plastic or a tooth-colored material. These will be less visible when the patient smiles. Dental cement is used to place the brackets on the teeth. Then an archwire will be applied to both the upper and the lower set of teeth.
One alternative to metal braces is clear braces. This system uses a set of clear aligners that are worn for most of the day. These aligners can come off for teeth cleaning and eating. That way, the patient’s teeth can stay cleaner during the orthodontic process.
Wearing traditional braces may be difficult for some people. Doing research is important when it comes to preparing for this life-changing treatment. Brackets and wires can cause discomfort, especially when eating. That is why dentists suggest the following if one has to prepare for orthodontic treatment:
If you have gaps, crowding, or other orthodontic issues, you do not have to live with them. Today, there are more options than ever to help you get the smile you have always dreamed of. Once you have finished your orthodontic treatment, you should wear your retainer enough. Making an appointment with an orthodontist is your first step.
Request an appointment here: https://paramountdentalspecialty.com or call Paramount Dental Care & Specialty at 5624501261 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
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